Edmond Life & Leisure - November 5, 2020

November 5, 2020 Vol. 21, No. 25

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Future of Education

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.

FAI benefit this weekend See Page 11

FRIDAY, November 6 Sunny High 77° Low 54°

SATURDAY, November 7 Partly Cloudy High 72° Low 59°

SUNDAY, November 8 Partly Cloudy High 71° Low 59°

Francis Tuttle Tech Center to open in 2021 When Francis Tuttle Technology Center opens its new Danforth Campus in August 2021, it will immediately represent the future of education.

Construction at 3841 E. Danforth Road in Edmond is on schedule for students to begin classes there when the next school year starts. And when they arrive, they will find a campus that encourages creativity, innovation and the development of ideas in order to promote future entrepreneurs.

“We purposefully incorporated design elements and dedicated spaces to create an educational facility to fuel the entrepreneurial spirit in Oklahoma and elevate a new economy,” Dr. Michelle Keylon, superintendent of Francis Tuttle Technology Center, said. “We want to create an environment that facilitates creative thinking and problem solving on a broad scale.”

The 155,000 square-foot facility will host numerous Francis Tuttle programs, including our Engineering, Biosciences and Medicine, and Computer Science Academies for high school students; Pre-Nursing, Cosmetology, Automotive Service

Technology and Interactive Media.

In addition, the Francis Tuttle small business incubator, Launch Pad FT, will relocate there from the current Business Innovation Center, and it will be joined by Workforce and Economic Development and the new small business Pre-Accelerator.

But all of that will fall under the theme of entrepreneurship, which will be spearheaded by the new Entrepreneurship Academy, the first of its kind in Oklahoma. Entrepreneurship students will learn the same as students in the other academies: by doing.

Their education will center around the project of building a business concept, thus learning the creative and problem-solving processes of being a prospective small-business owner.

These concepts will provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for college and the jobs of the future. Or, they may grow into next thriving small businesses in the Oklahoma City metro and provide the local economy with a boost.

“They, the students, get so much rigorous, hands-on learning. How do I learn to be a business owner? You build a business,” Khaaliq Salim, director of the Danforth Campus, said.

“You think, collaborate, present and get with other mentors in the industry and ask them questions; you work on your problems and your product, and you perfect it.”

Students will have access to resources and spaces inspired by the great suppliers of creative thought in our time. Design Thinking Studios and the Francis Tuttle d.school give students a place to share and collaborate on ideas. Inside the Product Realization Lab, concepts come to life through models and prototypes created using the latest in fabrication tools and technology.

The design of the Danforth Campus itself offers a welcoming atmosphere for team work and innovation.

It will be open to the entire community, allowing current and future business owners to converse, create and open up opportunities to improve the local economy.

“Entrepreneurship unleashes human potential,” Associate Superintendent Jaared Scott said. “It’s a very rigorous endeavor, and I’ve seen the growth of individuals who go through that process. It is the next step of skill acquisition that can be applied to a real-world scenario.”

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Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 3

Cover From Page 1 This year four students placed in the top ten nationally in their research divisions. The students will learn their project’s final ranking at the 2020 Virtual National FFA Convention in October.

“It is rare to have a student come in with an agriculture background,” Jones said. “Even the small towns are seeing the change.”

With increases in technology, Jones and Leatherwood hope the program continues to attract new students and innovate to meet the needs of the market.

The program also has a nearly 50 percent female presence. Females have consistently held more leadership positions in recent years, Jones said. Often thought of as a male-only field, agricultural mechanics teacher Kenny Leatherwood said getting women into the shop to weld has led

to several going into it as a career and one becoming a welding instructor for Francis Tuttle.

“It is amazing to see people build their confidence here,” Leatherwood said.

The sight of a student using a 3,000-degree blowtorch for the first time still gives Leatherwood a smile.

“They get to create things out here and that is exciting,” he said.

This mentorship towards students continues towards teachers as well with Leatherwood receiving the 2020 Oklahoma Teacher Mentor of the Year award.

Over the last 24 years, Leatherwood has helped the program grow into what it is today with livestock barns, a greenhouse, a classroom building, gardens and a small portion of a golf course to teach students about lawn maintenance.

Restaurant will laud vets Locally owned restaurant Alfredo’s Mexican Café is offering free meals to veterans on Wednesday, Nov. 11 in celebration of Veterans Day. The offer is available for dine-in services at all three Alfredo’s locations.

The restaurant is also donating 5% of all proceeds in November to Warriors for Freedom. The nonprofit provides purpose and camaraderie to veterans and active-duty service members, helping them reconnect with their communities and offering peer-to-peer support.

“Members of our military make great sacrifices to keep us all safe, and it’s extremely important to provide them continued care when they return home,” said Bruce Hill, Founder and CEO of Alfredo’s Mexican Café. “Warriors for Freedom

does great work in offering resources for veterans and active-duty service members. We’re excited to partner with them in honor of Veterans Day this November.”

Amber Moulder, executive director of Warriors for Freedom, said community partnerships like the one with Alfredo’s Mexican Café helps the nonprofit connect with even more people.

“From helping with depression to improving social skills and self-image, the feelings veterans get from becoming active in their communities again are truly life-changing,” Moulder said.

“We exist to serve America’s heroes and their families, but we can’t do it alone. We’re incredibly thankful for Alfredo’s Mexican Café for stepping up and selflessly donating a portion of their proceeds to this worthy cause.”

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

Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

Page 4 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Mural Festival set Saturday I am hoping that by the time you read this column, all power has been restored. Last week was difficult on many folks not the least of which were Edmond Electric and Public Works staff for Edmond. It Ray Hibbard is amazing the work that they all do when the chips are down due to weather. Before we knew it, great weather returned, and we are back to beautiful autumn days. The aftermath of the storm will be around for a while.

It is a good time to appreciate our level of city services here in Edmond and the city staff and administration.

It does not just happen. It takes years of planning and preparation for the kind of ice storm we had last week.

There is much more to be done but we can appreciate our city management and staff even more when a natural disaster strikes.

One of the events scheduled for this coming Saturday, November 7, in downtown Edmond is taking place and you will want to see it. There will be artists painting 4,700 square feet of murals in our Downtown. It is called the Rollin’ Deep Mural Festival and it features giant works of art coming to life from noon to 6 p.m.

Thirteen artists will paint 4,700 square feet of murals in several alleyways in Downtown Edmond. Enjoy local DJ’s and live music during an open-air mural demonstration while practicing safe social distancing. You are invited to watch local artists paint 11 murals in alleyways throughout Downtown Edmond.

Site locations include: • West wall of 15 E. 1st Street • West walls of 15 S. Broadway and 10 W. 1st Street • East wall of 17 W. 1st Street • East wall of 8 S. Broadway My favorite part about the event is that Dusty Gilpin with Okiedust will be one of the artists and organizers of this once in a lifetime event. Gilpin said, “What was once a simple alley will become a high-traffic destination spot, selfie station and outdoor gallery featuring some of the best Oklahoman muralists.” Gilpin has deep roots in his craft. His grandfather and his father were both artists.

They owned and operate Graphic Arts in Oklahoma City.

Dusty’s father and I got to know each other at Oklahoma State University. I was trying to graduate and his dad, Greg, was doing commercial

itation, contractors who ask for a substantial up-front payment or request cash payment, use high pressure or aggressive sales tactics or resist the use of a written contract.

• Do not give out bank account information, social security, or driver’s license numbers.

• If contractors identify themselves with a federal or state government agency, ask for credentials and call the agency they claim to be with.

For more information or to report a complaint, individuals are encouraged to contact the Consumer Protection Unit by phone at (405) 521-2029, email at consumerprotection@oag.ok.gov or visit the consumer protection website and fill out an online complaint form, here.

Artist Dusty Gilpin art and design at OSU. I was also working for the Alumni Association doing an internship. They sent me over to his office for what I thought was for him to do paste up on our International Newletter. My soon to be friend told me when I presented myself in his office, “I’ll teach you how to do it if you want”. He did and even though it is an extinct process, I can keep a straight line.

The Edmond Visual Arts Commission is supporting the event, as it aligns with their mission to provide a means for the selection, display, and maintenance of art for the City of Edmond's collection. “Public art adds vitality and character to an area, and this project will activate our downtown alleyways,” said Cinda Covel, Edmond City Clerk and Art Liaison.

“We are thrilled to have these talented mural artists as part of this project. Their unique and outstanding styles will diversify the Edmond Public Art Program.”

To learn more about the Edmond Visual Arts Commission and the Edmond Public Art Program, visit edmondok.com/evac.

Beware of clean up scams Staying on subject of the ice storm, our Edmond neighborhoods will be filled with folks from out of town wanting to do work for you. My sister called me last Thursday to tell me about a guy that showed up at her door looking for work and wanted to clean out her back year. I gave her my opinion,

but she did not like it.

Attorney General Mike Hunter was urging Oklahomans to proceed with caution before selecting contractors when making repairs to property and clean up in the wake of the ice storm last week. While Oklahomans begin to recover from the storm, the attorney general also reminds contractors and individuals the state’s Emergency Price Stabilization Act is still in effect for all 77 counties with the ongoing disaster emergency declaration.

The price gouging statute prohibits an increase of more than 10 percent for the price of goods and services after a declared emergency. Additionally, the act allows the attorney general to pursue charges against individuals or businesses that engage in price gouging. Attorney General Hunter said natural disasters bring out criminals.

The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit offers the following tips to avoid contractor fraud: • Ask for referrals from people you trust and for references from contractors.

• Avoid fly-by-night companies and use local companies established in the community.

• Obtain written estimates from multiple contractors.

• Ensure roofers are registered with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board by calling (405) 5216550 or check the online database at https://cib.ok.gov/are-they-licensed.

• Be cautious of door-to-door solic-

RIP to our favorite buckeroo We would be remiss if we did not acknowledge the passing of long-time song writer and troubadour, Jerry Jeff Walker. If you came of age here in Oklahoma in the 1970’s, he was a staple in your record collection. As much as his contribution was to music of the day, he played a special role for the UCO Jazz Lab in Edmond. It may sound odd but here is the short story.

When UCO Jazz Lab architect, David Hornbeek, wanted to start the nonprofit Tres Amigos Productions to raise money for jazz scholarship for UCO through their foundation, he needed a sure-fire success for a concert to kick things off. He set his sights on Walker. How was he to get the Texas Troubadour to come to a place that was not on anybody’s map, even though all he had to do was come from Austin, Texas where he lived?

Hornbeek started with the source of all power in a marriage. He called Susan Walker, Jerry wife, to work the deal. He came and loved it. “I like this place, I get to actually sign my songs here and not have to scream like you do in a big concert hall”, Walker told us. It was a bucket list kind of thing for me to get to interview him and get to know him better including on his return visit.

Walker helped bring other artists to come play for the Tres Amigos concerts which let to folks like Boz Skaggs, Steve Tyrell, Christopher Cross, Judy Collins and many more.

Thank you, Jerry Jeff Walker, for your music, spirit and help in starting Tres Amigos. My guess is it was not the first time he and Susan helped a growing vision and not the last.

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

Check out what’s inside!

---- What to know about tree limb pickup ........................................Page 6.

---- Edmond Police arrest report ........................................................Page 7.

---- OC recalls a dear friend, Max Dodson ........................................Page 9.

---- Columnist looks back on ice storm ............................................Page 10.

---- Reminder on FAI event ..............................................................Page 11.

---- Elaine Warner’s travel column ....................................................Page 13.

---- George Gust reviews latest Bill Murray film ..............................Page 14.

---- Crossword Puzzle ......................................................................Page 14.

This and so 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 © 2020 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 • November 5, 2020 • Page 5

Wanted: Bus drivers Edmond Public Schools is in urgent need of bus drivers. The district must hire up to 15 drivers immediately.

“This is a great opportunity for someone who has been laid off from their job during this pandemic to pick up either a part-time or full-time position driving a bus for Edmond Public Schools. Plus, full-time drivers receive health insurance which could be great assistance to many people who are suffering financially at this time,” said Transporation Director Kenny Chamlee.

The district is taking numerous steps to ensure that drivers are safe. Students are required to wear a mask on buses and are assigned seats to ensure optimal social distancing. When feasible, school bus windows are down to increase ventilation and inhibit the coronavirus contagion. Also, students with a fever of 100 degrees Fahren-

heit or greater are not allowed to ride the bus.

“Due to the number of students who signed up for full virtual learning and the remaining students being on an A/B schedule, our ridership has dropped significantly leading to more open spaces on our buses,” noted Chamlee.

Bus drivers are required to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and start at $14.26 per hour. The district provides CDL training if needed. Prospective drivers should have a clean driving record with no more than two moving violations in a three-year period.

Individuals who are interested must apply online by going to the district’s website, www.edmondschools.net. Click the careers quick link on the home page and look for support positions.

Obituaries Etta Marie Kennedy Etta Marie Kennedy entered the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, November 1, 2020, at her home in Edmond, Oklahoma at the age of 84. Etta Marie was born on April 2, 1936 in Cashion, Oklahoma to George Elmo Wells and Ruth Shirley Wells. Etta Marie attended Deer Creek schools through her sophomore year when she moved to Edmond and graduated from Edmond High School in 1954. During this time, she met her husband, Thomas “Tom” Nolan Kennedy, Sr., who attended John Marshall High School. Tom and Etta Marie were married June 7, 1958, and enjoyed 61 years together.

Etta Marie was a devoted mother and wife and raised their children in Edmond, Oklahoma while supporting her husband in the tire industry. Tom and Etta Marie opened Edmond Tire Center in 1974, which is still owned and operated by the Kennedy family under the name Kennedy Tire & Auto Service.

Etta Marie was a loyal friend and kept in touch with many throughout her life. She dedicated her life to Jesus Christ at the age of 28 and was actively involved in Henderson Hills Baptist Church since 1964. Her hobbies included traveling, genealogy, quilting, antiquing, and most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren.

Etta Marie was preceded in death by her husband Tom, father George Elmo Wells, and mother Ruth Shirley Wells. She is survived by her two sisters Cheryl Ann Weiss and Georgene Ruth Patrick and her two children: daughter, Tamara Roper, her husband Randy, and children, Kylie Mayes (Jordan) and Lanie Frye (Keeton), son Thomas “Tad” Nolan Kennedy, Jr., his wife, Karen, and children, Thomas “Trey” Nolan Kennedy, III (Katie) and Kaci Newton (Grant).

Memorial contributions can be made to Boys Ranch Town, 5100 E 33rd St, Edmond, OK 73013 Services were held at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel.

Max Lynn Dobson Max Lynn Dobson claimed victory over this life on October 28, 2020. He walked with God on this earth and is now comforted by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Max was born on July 27, 1939, in Oklahoma City to Vernon and Geraldine. He was raised by his Uncle Don and Aunt Louise Edwards.

Max largely grew up in the rural community of Waukomis, Oklahoma. Farm life aided in his development of a strong work ethic. He attended Pioneer School, where he was an All-State basketball player. Max was awarded a scholarship to play basketball for Henry Iba at Oklahoma State University. He later transferred to Phillips University to play both basketball and baseball. Max earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Phillips University, a Master of Education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and a Doctorate of Education from Oklahoma State University.

Max married Ramona Vanderwork on June 1, 1958. They were blessed with three children and had a close and loving relationship until her death over 42 years later.

Following Ramona’s death, Max married Marilyn Kelly Forrester. Max and Marilyn enjoyed a beautiful marriage for the past 18 years.

In 1966, Max and Ramona moved to Edmond, Oklahoma, where Max had accepted an offer to teach and coach at Oklahoma Christian University. He gave tirelessly to Oklahoma Christian, his students, teams and community. Max was rewarded for his more than 47 years of service. He received the University’s Gaylord Chair of Distinguished Teaching. His professional organization, the Oklahoma Association of Health, Physical Education and Recreation granted him their annual Honor Award for his contributions to Physical Education. Max also received the Oklahoma Christian Faculty Leadership Award.

During his coaching tenure, his baseball teams were consistently successful, including a 3rd place finish in the nation. Max founded the women’s basketball program at Oklahoma Christian, and his basketball teams were also highly successful, including many titles and championships. He had the pleasure of coaching numerous All-Americans in both baseball and basketball. Max was inducted into the Oklahoma Christian University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995 and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Baseball Hall of Fame in 1996. He received the OKC Thunder Community Hero Award in 2012 for his work with Edmond’s special needs students. Max was inducted into Oklahoma Christian’s Master Teacher Hall of Fame in 2014.

Max’s most treasured reward is the immense and positive impact he had on those he touched. For 54 years, Max served Memorial Road Church of Christ. He worked diligently in the church as a teacher, deacon and elder. Max was an exemplary husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, coach, mentor, friend and man of God. Max’s family cherishes their time spent with him. He was a bright light in each of their lives, showering them with love, care and much humor. Max’s ultimate goal and greatest mission was to make it to heaven, which he has now achieved.

Max was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ramona; his sister, Lana Pray; his father, Vernon; his mother, Geraldine; his Uncle Don and Aunt Louise. Max is survived by his dedicated and loving wife, Marilyn; his three children, Tami Robbins, Todd Dobson and Teri Mueller and their spouses Bill Robbins, Dee Dobson and Scott Mueller; step-daughter Anna Jane Perrey and her husband Chris; seven granddaughters; three grandsons; one great-granddaughter and one great-grandson. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Dobson, and sister, Judy Lamb.

Services were held at Matthews Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Oklahoma Christian University Dobson Scholarship or Special Needs Physical Education Program (give.oc.edu/ maxdobson), or to the Tipton Children’s Home (tiptonchildrenshome. com).

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Page 6 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure A tree at Stephenson Park lost limbs in last week’s ice storm. Thousands more were damaged in the surprise early winter storm.

MELINDA INFANTE

City’s advisory on limb pickup The City of Edmond’s Field Services division of Public Works will be collecting tree debris from the October ice storm in accordance with the City of Edmond’s Emergency Operation Plan’s Level Three Response.

There will be two rounds of tree debris pick up and the first will begin on Monday, Nov. 9. Crews will begin at the west city limits and work their way east. Once they have completed the entire city, they will begin the second round moving from west to east. Pick up is available to residential homes but does not include businesses/churches or apartment complexes.

Tree debris must be cut into no more than six (6) foot sections and must be placed within ten (10) feet of the curb of the residence. Residents are asked to avoid piling debris on or near water meters, gas meters, mailboxes, fire hydrants or irrigation systems.

With a large amount of tree debris in the city, these pickups will take place over several weeks. WE ASK FOR EVERYONE’S PATIENCE DUR-

ING THIS LENGTHY PROCESS. For residents that would like to dispose of debris sooner, there will be a free drop off opportunity at Hafer Park. Beginning this week, the baseball field parking lot will become a temporary tree debris dump site for residents living in the city limits.

Drop off services will be every day from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

This option is only available for residential customers who receive City of Edmond solid waste services. A copy of a current City of Edmond utility bill and a driver’s license will be required to prove Edmond residency.

Due to space restrictions, no vehicles larger than one ton trucks with a trailer up to 16-feet long will be allowed. Tree debris must be cut into no longer than six (6) foot sections.

If you are unsure whether you live in the Edmond City Limits, you can determine eligibility by checking your home address at www.edmondok.com/doiliveinedmond.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 7

Edmond Police Arrest Report (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. 19 Laura Christine Ferrero, 20, of Edmond. Charged with speeding, over 15 mph and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Randall James Green, 54 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant, expired tag over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Oct. 20 Tommy Dean Osborn, 27 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Franklin Robert Beals, 29 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Blaine Ryan Bassler, 31, of Edmond. Petty larceny.

Oct. 21 Jay Jesse Chaffin, 34, Yukon, possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Oct. 22

James Tanner Cole, 21. of Edmond. Operating (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Kaylee Nicole Raether, 26, of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Antonio Shay Moore, 23, of Edmond. (Anything other than alcohol) operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol, possess CDS and driving while license is canceled, suspended or revoked.

Stone Gage Thomas, 24, of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance, speeding 21-25 MPH over and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Edward Anthony Runnels, 37, homeless. Public intoxication.

Christen Lee Bowen, 36, of Edmond. Petty larceny and trespassing.

Dustin Levi Revas, 24, of Midwest City. (Misdemeanor 1st and 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer.

John Randall Kirkland, 36, of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC. Oct. 23 Steven Frank Menna, 41 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Jacob Troy Mattinson, 26, homeless. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Sebastian Maldonado, 33, Edmond. Public intoxication.

Oct. 24 Raley Jlynn Bennett, 34, of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Mark Shane Dalrymple, 43, of Edmond. (Misd) domestic abuse assault.

Jeremy James Schultz, 46, homeless. (Drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution.

(Misd.) checks, bills, drafts (sale exchange or delivery of forged or counterfeit).

Caitlin Marie Hicks, 28 of Guthrie. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .15 or more and leaving the scene of accident damaged fixtures.

Pedro Rivas Soto, 27, Edmond.

Two counts of failure to appear.

Oct. 25 Dejore Mikhail Baldwin, 26 of Oklahoma City. Possession of a firearm after conviction of a felony.

John Lennon Rector, 36 of Oklahoma City. Possession of a firearm after a felony and operate (DUI or APC) a MV under the influence of drugs or chemical or CDS. Shannah Lynn Vandever, 45, of Edmond. Public intoxication.

James Lovell Holt, 31 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.

Jarred Jurell Rainer, 30 of Midwest City. Non assault resisting an officer and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

OCCC will remain mostly online Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) announced last Friday that classes will be conducted mostly online for Spring 2021, continuing the safety protocols it instituted in March 2020. The decision was made after a “Pandemic Planning for Spring 2021” survey was distributed to all students, faculty and staff.

More than 3,000 respondents indicated an overwhelming preference for onlineonly instruction, given the continued rise in COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma and across the country.

“These are not simple or easy decisions,” said OCCC Provost Dr. Jeremy Thomas. “We would all love to be together in person again, but it’s just not safe to do so yet. Our students deserve the best education possible, and we believe we can deliver a great online learning experience.”

OCCC experienced a year-over-year increase in enrollment for both summer and fall, despite the move to online learning, and has received largely positive feedback from students, faculty and staff for the online experience. Certain classes which absolutely require in-person instruction, labs or other training, will still be conducted on campus when required, with proper social distancing and masks.

“The most important thing I want our students to know is that we’re here for them,” said Dr. Thomas. “Though classes are being conducted online, campus will remain open to allow students access to a hot meal or coffee, the library, tutors, free WiFi, food pantry, a safe place to study, or advisements.”

Page 8 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Oklahoma History Center celebrates anniversary Nov. 16 marks 15 years since the Oklahoma History Center (OHC) opened its doors at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive in Oklahoma City.

To celebrate this milestone, the OHC will offer five days of free admission to the public beginning Tuesday, Nov. 17, through Saturday, Nov. 21, sponsored by the Inasmuch Foundation. In conjunction with this celebration, the OHC will open its newest permanent exhibit, “Launch to Landing: Oklahomans and Space” on Tuesday, Nov. 17.

This exhibit will offer patrons the opportunity to see Oklahoma’s contributions to the history of aviation and space exploration, and features the Skylab CM-118 command module as the gallery’s centerpiece.

The Oklahoma History Center houses the administrative offices, as well as the bulk of the artifact collections and research archives, of the Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS).

From 1930 to 2005, the OHS occupied what is now the Oklahoma Judicial Center, the home of the Oklahoma Supreme Court and the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals.

The OHC was designed by Beck Associates of Oklahoma City, in collaboration with the award-winning firm Hellmuth, Obata and Kassabaum (HOK) of St. Louis, Missouri.

Among their many architectural masterpieces, HOK designed the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., and, as of 2018, was the largest U.S.-based architecture-engineering firm. Haley Sharpe Design Limited of Washington, D.C., and Leicester, Great Britain, designed the original exhibits.

The Oklahoma History Center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please visit www.okhistory.org/historycenter or call 405-522-0765 for more information.

The Oklahoma History Center is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society and is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, National Archives and is an accredited member of the American Alliance of Museums. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state.

Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.

Lawmaker honors OSU president Rep. John Talley, R-Stillwater, released the following statement regarding the retirement of Oklahoma State University President Burns Hargis, who announced last week that he will retire on July 1, 2021: “I consider myself fortunate to have known Burns and his wife, Ann, for several years and to witness firsthand their remarkable impact on the Oklahoma State campus, the Stillwater community and the entire state of Oklahoma.

Over the course of his tenure, President Hargis has made our campus

even more beautiful and set record enrollment. His passion for higher education has inspired many students to set high goals and attain them. His steadfast servant leadership continually guided our community and showed us the unwavering support we needed during tragedy.

Burns and Ann are beloved by students, faculty, staff and alumni alike, and their absence will be deeply felt.

From the bottom of my heart, I’d like to thank them both for their service to our school and state, and I wish them the very best in their next chapter.”

Rep. Talley is an alumnus of Oklahoma State University, where he was a member of the OSU wrestling team from 1973 to 1977 and graduated with a bachelor’s in agriculture education. For the last 26 years, Talley has ministered to student athletes on the OSU campus.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 9

OC recalls legacy of Max Dobson Max Dobson, one of the early pillars of Oklahoma Christian University's athletic department and a well-known teacher of physical education for special-needs students, passed away Oct. 28, 2020 after a long illness. He was 81.

Dobson, a graduate of Pioneer High School in northwestern Oklahoma and Phillips University in Enid (where he starred in baseball and basketball), began teaching at OC in 1966. He spent time as OC's baseball coach, women's basketball coach and athletic director, in addition to his duties as a professor and chairman of OC's physical education department.

"Dr. Max Dobson is one of OC's finest," OC President John deSteiguer said. "He was a great coach and great administrator for sure, but his spiritual influence and impact on individuals – students, co-workers, community members – is unsurpassed.

He cared about people - and every person that knew him, knew he cared about them. Max made OC better.

And he made lots of us better."

OC's current athletic director, David Lynn, called Dobson "an Oklahoma Christian legend" who personified servant leadership.

"I was fortunate enough to take the majority of my physical education classes from him at OC as a student," Lynn said. "After graduating I was lucky enough to be mentored by him as a young coach. You didn't need to listen to him tell you how to do it, because he was a shining example of how to treat people every day.

"He truly embodied the OC spirit.

He was fiercely competitive as a coach, extremely gifted as a teacher and humble as a man in a position to help others better themselves. He will truly be missed."

Dobson shined as both a coach and administrator in OC's young athletic department. As the baseball coach from 1967 to 1980, Dobson posted a record of 280-194. He guided the Eagles to the NAIA District 9 and Area III titles and a thirdplace finish at the NAIA World Series in 1972. His .591 winning percentage is the highest by any coach in OC baseball history.

He went 173-80 – a .683 winning percentage – in eight seasons (197778 to 1984-85) as OC's women's basketball coach, building that program from scratch before handing the reins to current coach Stephanie Findley. His teams won two Sooner Athletic Conference titles as well as the 1980 Oklahoma Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) Division II championship.

As the athletic director from 1983 to 1994, his hires included Findley (one of his former players and assistant coaches) and now-retired men's basketball coach Dan Hays, who have won more games at an Oklahoma university in women's and men's hoops, respectively, than any other coaches in state history. He also successfully recruited Sherri (Buben) Coale as a player and she went on to build a Hall of Fame coaching career with the University of Oklahoma's women's basketball team.

He also served for many years on the NAIA District 9 executive committee, an indication of the respect those outside OC had for him.

"Coach Dobson was a treasure," Findley said. "His wit and wisdom were so refreshing, as was his attitude toward coaching. Winning games was never his first concern. He was more concerned with the success of each individual player on and off the court. He was truly a good man with a good heart, selfless, a man of principle and values – things not easily found in athletics today. Not to mention, I owe Max so much for the opportunity he gave me to coach here!"

Like Findley, Hays said Dobson served as a mentor after Hays arrived at OC in 1983.

"Max and the great Stafford North set the bar so high that my transition became easy," Hays said. "You see, I had never been around a Christian school during my entire playing and coaching career. … Max Dobson

Max Dobson 1939-2020 showed me how to do things by being the greatest example a young coach and teacher could have. I watched him at church, on the playing fields, in the office, the classroom, etc. He set the bar so high and made it look easy. Max Dobson was simply someone I tried to emulate. I love coach Max Dobson."

Even with all of Dobson's coaching and administrative success, his most influential work came with specialneeds children. In 1976, he began a class called "Teaching the Exceptional Child" after a parent of a specialneeds child, who was searching for opportunities for the child to interact with college students, asked Dobson if OC had such a program.

Dobson created the program and initially recruited his baseball players to play with the students. He worked to raise funds for the program, much of which came from the OC Women's Association and OC alumni. He has estimated that at least 3,000 OC students have taken the class through the years and assisted in his efforts to aid specialneeds children.

"I've said many times he was the most Christ-like man that I have ever met," said Curtis Janz, now the athletic director at Arkansas-Fort Smith after spending more than 30 years at OC, first as an assistant basketball coach and later as the athletic director. "His legacy will live on for many, many years at Oklahoma Christian and in OC athletics, but also in the hearts of thousands of special-needs men and women and their families.

We will be measured by how we treat those who can do nothing for us and Max was a giant in that area."

Dobson's work with special-needs students was recognized by numerous groups. On New Year's Eve in 2012, the Oklahoma City Thunder presented Dobson with its "Devon Community Hero" award and in April 2013 – shortly before his retirement from OC – Edmond Public Schools also honored Dobson.

"Many lives have been changed because of Dr. Dobson's influence," Nancy Goosen, the director of special services for Edmond Public Schools, said at that time. "How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. Dr. Dobson spent 47 years at Oklahoma Christian University and dedicated a total of 52 years to teaching students.

"As Helen Keller once stated, 'The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched.

They must be felt in the heart.' Dr. Dobson, thank you for your many years of selfless service to our students with disabilities, to our Edmond Public Schools personnel and to the college students at OC. You have touched all of our hearts with your hugs, your smile and your love."

Dobson said in 2012 that the special-needs classes positively affected not only the children who partici-

pated, but also those of the college students who assisted.

"I have read hundreds of evaluations on the courses and I keep hearing 'this course has changed my life.' l have seen it and their lives have been changed and that is what OC is supposed to be all about," Dobson said.

"God truly has blessed my life by giving me this opportunity to touch the lives of hundreds of children and I could not have done it without the support of these wonderful college students."

In 1995, he was inducted into the OC Athletic Hall of Fame, and the next year, he was inducted into the NAIA Hall of Fame. OC again recognized Dobson in 2008 when it named its rebuilt baseball facility as "Max and Ramona Dobson Field."

Dobson was a strong advocate to revive OC's baseball program, which had been suspended in 2001, and current OC coach Lonny Cobble said Dobson served as a valuable resource for him.

"Since day one here at OC, coach Dobson was a mentor and taught me the ins and outs of OC baseball," Cobble said. "I was very blessed to be around such a wonderful man! His legacy extends way beyond the OC community."

Dobson married Ramona (Vanderwork) Dobson in 1958 and they served together until her death in 2001. In 2002, he married Marilyn (Forrester) Dobson, who survives him, along with his son, Todd Dobson, his daughters, Teri Meuller and Tami Robbins, and their spouses.

Page 10 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Surprising ice storm

By Steve Gust Editor Edmond Life & Leisure So did everyone enjoy the latest ice storm?

I know how you feel. I didn’t either.

Who would have dreamed that such a devastating ice storm could happen before November?

Just the week before we were in the 80s and I found myself turning on the air conditioner again.

October isn’t known for such weather. I remember Steve Gust having my boys in fall baseball and they would still be playing tournaments the first weekend of November.

This latest storm was just one of those freaky weather events. It also drives home a few points.

Our society relies heavily on electrical power for a variety of functions.

Our ancestors would be scratching their heads at how reliant we’ve become on electricity and all the modern comforts.

Even days without power I would still find myself trying to flip a light switch when I went into a dark room.

Reminds me of a story I read about the Soviet Army storming into Berlin during the ends of World War II in 1945. Some of the Russian soldiers had never seen electricity before.

They would see a light bulb and then unscrew it from the socket. They took it with them and were perplexed why the bulb wouldn’t light up again.

I hope our bout with the winter weather isn’t a preview of what’s ahead for the next four or five months. If so it could be a real long winter.

My thanks to the power linemen who showed up. Talk about a tough job.

Years ago, I worked at another newspaper once and we had a bad storm. A rumor kept circulating that three linemen were killed in an accident. As the local reporter I checked it out and it never happen.

But the calls kept coming and coming. Sometimes rumors just seem to take on a life of their own.

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

Openness important with state vaccine plan

By The Oklahoman Editorial Board Oklahoma’s plan for distributing a COVID-19 vaccine, once one becomes available, includes many facets. Foremost among them may be the Health Department’s focus, especially early in the process, on explaining who is getting the vaccine and why.

The plan, recently submitted to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, calls for distributing the vaccine in four phases tied to availability. First in line will be employees of nursing homes and long-term care facilities, followed by front-line public health workers and those caring directly for sick COVID-19 patients.

A key focus during Phase 1, the plan says,

The cartoon has been previously published

“will be transparency surrounding how the priority groups were decided, the rationale used to determine the first target populations for vaccine, and the fluidity of among groups within phase 1 where vaccine distribution will be highly dependent upon the type, indication, and logistics associated with the specific vaccine provided to the state.”

Simply put, early on when dosages will be limited, health officials plan to shoot straight with the public about where the vaccine is going and why.

It’s important they follow through.

Planners estimate the first phase will require roughly 12,000 doses for staff at nursing homes, assisted living and longterm care facilities; 19,000 for residents of

those facilities; 500 for public health staff engaged in front-line COVID-19 mitigation and control activities, and 84,000 for health care workers providing direct inpatient COVID care.

Phase 2 would make vaccines available to, among others, first responders; adults 65 and older; health care workers, primarily for those 65 and older; and staff and residents of “congregant locations and worksites” such as group homes, prisons and manufacturing plants with limited social distancing capacity.

Phase 3 would focus on teachers, students, residents and administrators in pre-K through college.

Phase 4 would target all remaining Oklahoma residents.

Planners came up with four “overarching tenets” of the state’s vaccination program: save lives and maximize the vaccine’s benefits; treat people with equal regard and mitigate health inequities; minimize or eliminate vaccine waste; and maintain constant awareness of vaccine inventory and administration reporting.

That last of those is notable because the vaccine team said storing the vaccine for extended periods figures to be a challenge.

Thus, resupply and ordering “must be monitored continuously to ensure appropriate tracking and administration of second doses.”

The report notes the lessons learned from response to the H1N1 pandemic in 2009. One was that allotment and distribution of a vaccine to Oklahoma’s tribes “missed the mark.” Thus, tribal leaders are involved, and will continue to be, in shaping the COVID plan.

Through it all, officials should make transparency their guide. The more Oklahomans know about the vaccine and its rollout, the better.

Protect one another to keep students in classroom

By Joy Hofmeister HCOVID fatigue is real. Nowhere is that more evident than in our schools. Oklahoma public schools working hard to provide in-person instruction have endured waves of quarantined students and staff members, often-polarized communities and a litany of (rightly) stringent safety protocols. Other schools have chosen virtual instruction and the host of challenges it brings. But Oklahoma parents and students have found consensus on at least one thing: They are frustrated and tired.

We want students in school for a host of reasons — not the least of which being significant learning loss that American schoolchildren already have suffered due to COVID-19. Researchers estimate that

students will have lost three months to a full year of learning by fall 2021. Many educators are working wonders in distance learning, but limited student engagement and the digital divide are formidable impediments.

Keeping kids in school requires a collective commitment.

First, we must free up capacity in our health care system by making sure we and our children get flu shots. In normal years, hospitals are stretched thin during influenza season, and 2020 is anything but normal. Intensive care units are filled. COVID-related deaths in Oklahoma are nearing 1,300. By mitigating spread of flu and coronavirus, we help let front-line health care workers do their jobs, which in turn en-

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.

ables schools to operate without disruption.

Second, third and fourth are the 3 W’s: Wash our hands, watch our social distance and wear a mask.

Stay vigilant.

While the majority of schools have a mask policy, many are narrow, restricted to bus drivers or visitors or students during passing periods. A recent state Department of Education survey found that only 44% of school districts statewide require students and staff to wear masks in the classroom — where they spend most of their time. Moreover, colder weather means more people in closer quarters indoors. This brings new concerns for athletes and spectators in school gymnasiums or performance halls.

Wearing masks is critical to protect our teachers and staff, as well as students and families. To ensure our children can continue learning where we know they do it best — in the company of their teachers and peers — I urge you to make your voice heard. If an adequate mask requirement is not already in place, let your school board representative know you and your children deserve this protection.

Teddy Roosevelt once said, “The best thing you can do is the right thing.” As we face a momentous fall and winter, public health experts agree that masking up and getting a flu shot are how we can best weather the combined challenges of a global pandemic and flu season. They are also simple, evidencebased safety measures that can keep our children in school and learning.

Hofmeister is Oklahoma's superintendent of public instruction.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 11

Annual OK Ale Trail to benefit Edmond’s FAI The OK Ale Trail is a 3-mile fun run/walk in Downtown Edmond, on Saturday, Nov. 7th at 11 a.m. Registration includes three craft beers from local breweries including: Coop Ale Works, Frenzy Brewing, and Roughtail Brewing as well as live music, great food, 2020 souvenir Ale Trail beer glass, and fun with family and friends.

A new racecourse brings additional excitement this year! Participants begin at The Railyard, 23 W 1st St, Edmond, loop through downtown Edmond and run through The Railyard where the beers are served. Runners may choose to participate in the “Ale Trail Challenge” which requires running a lap and drinking a beer (3 laps, 3 beers), or runners and walkers are welcome to enjoy the three complimentary beers at their leisure.

Prizes and awards will be presented to the top three male and female “Ale Trail Challenge” finishers.

In addition, the 2020 OK Ale Trail kicks off with optional Beer Yoga at 10 a.m. provided by well-known Oklahoma Yogi, Scott Bartel. Stick

Some of the runners from last year’s event having fun.

around for the after party sponsored

by Regent Bank, that includes a Beer Chug contest, and live music on the outdoor stage sponsored by T-Mobile.

Registration is at EdmondFineArts.com for $50 a person. All ages are welcome to participate in the race, but beer run participants must be 21 and over with a valid ID. The OK Ale Trail is a rain or shine event.

If conditions are unsafe to run the course, participants will still hang out, drink beer, and enjoy live music and fun! Walk up registration will be available at the Railyard on race day.

Want to get an early start? Join the pre-party packet pick-up on Friday, Nov. 6 from 3 to 6 p.m. at 1884 which includes happy hour specials for Ale Trail Runners, or pick-up packets on Saturday, Nov. 7 beginning at

9:30 in The Railyard.

Participants are expected to follow the City of Edmond’s COVID guidelines to ensure a safe event for everyone. EnMotive will manage the start/finish line and official race timing, while the Edmond Police Department oversees the course throughout downtown.

Special thanks to supporting sponsors, T-Mobile, Regent Bank, Physical Therapy Central David Dobson Re/Max First, RadVine Marketing, Jetta, Bath Fitters, BancFirst, 1884, The Patriarch, Gogi Go, Blue J’s Rockin Grill, Oak City Pizza and Taqueria El Camino for making this event possible.

Proceeds benefit the Edmond Fine Arts Institute, Edmond’s nonprofit community arts organization providing visual and performing art classes for children and adults year-round and the 3rd and 4th grade Art in Schools Program for Edmond Public School students.

For more information visit EdmondFineArts.com or call 405-3404481.

Page 12 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 13

The other sights to enjoy in Florida

By Elaine Warner If you hear the name “Florida” and immediately think of Disney World, you’re not alone. But there’s so much more to the state.

One of my favorite Elaine areas is Polk County in Central Florida.

The Lake Wales Ridge runs north and south through Polk County. Wind and water created the ridge, actually a chain of sandy islands in an ancient sea. Its highest point, one of the highest in the state, is Iron Mountain, elevation 295 feet.

Atop this mini-mountain is one of my favorite Florida attractions — Bok Tower Gardens. This 250-acre tract mixes beauty, botany, birds, and bells.

The man behind this site was Edward Bok (born in 1863), who emigrated from the Netherlands with his family at the age of six. The family arrived in poverty, strangers to the language and culture. Edward Bok added to his few years of public education with unbounded curiosity and pursuit of self-education. By 26, he was the editor of one of America’s most popular magazines, The Ladies’ Home Journal.

Later in life, he received a Pulitzer Prize for his writing and was an important advocate for social and environmental issues. He was instrumental in preserving Niagara Falls as a national treasure.

Bok, who had a winter retreat near Iron Mountain, became interested in protecting this section of the Lake Wales Ridge – a unique ecosystem home to endangered plants and animals. Wanting to create an area which would “touch the soul with beauty and quiet,” he purchased land and assembled a team of experts to create what today is an amazing destination for those who love nature and who come to hear the music of the pealing bells in the iconic Tower.

Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., whose work included the White House grounds, the Jefferson Memorial, and the National Mall, began work on the Florida site in 1923. Olmsted and his team planted both native and exotic plants, transforming the sand hill area into a lush garden.

Today the gardens are host to 126 species of birds and provide an important site on the Great Florida Birding Trail. The Pine Ridge Nature Preserve offers protection to one of the nation’s rapidly disappearing longleaf pines and turkey oaks.

Through the gardens, paths lead to the park’s signature structure, the Singing Tower. The 205-foot-tall tower, constructed of Florida coquina and pink and gray marble, sports carved marble bands featuring native wildlife. Four massive eagles sit atop spires on top of the Tower.

At the base of the Tower is a massive brass door. It features 30 repouseé panels depicting scenes from Genesis beginning with Creation through the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.

ELAINE WARNER

Visitors to Polk County will find opportunities to see native wildlife up close.

Near the top of the Tower, around the bell chamber, are eight, 37-foottall windows decorated with lacy grilles with colorful, glazed tiles in designs of elements of nature.

The bells, of course, are what give the Singing Tower its song. Sixty bells, created by a historic English bell foundry, are housed at the top of the Tower. There are fewer than 200 carillons in the United States – this is one of the finest.

Other pleasures on the property include an endangered plant garden, kitchen garden, and wild garden. A small shelter provides a window perfect for viewing birds and other wildlife around a small pond. Children will love the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden with water features, playground and lots of opportunities for exploring nature.

There are also benches for quiet contemplation throughout the gardens. One of my favorite spots is atop Iron Mountain near the Tower.

The panoramic view from this spot includes some of Florida’s orange groves below.

Speaking of oranges – here comes a commercial for one of my favorite companies, Florida’s Natural. I like the idea that Florida’s Natural orange juice is squeezed from oranges grown and picked within 100 miles of the Lake Wales facility. Its farmers are a proud part of the cooperative as grower owners. And it’s really good juice!

Another of my favorite stops is Lang’s Sun Country Groves – growers of oranges and ruby red grapefruit.

The family business started in the 1930s. In addition to the fruit, the café here is a real treat. You can’t leave without trying Mary Lang’s original recipe – grapefruit pie. I’m including the recipe but, if you’re like I was, the hardest thing about it is sectioning the grapefruit so it doesn’t look like I chewed it off. If you go to YouTube and search for “how to section a grapefruit,” you’ll find several options. I like the one from langsuncountry because Mary Lang herself shows how.

Besides the Bok Gardens and the fruit, there are more reasons to visit this part of Florida. If you love architecture, you’ll love Lakeland. The largest one-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings is on the campus of Florida Southern University.

For contemporary architecture, visit the Florida Polytechnic campus to see

ELAINE WARNER

The carillon tower at Bok Tower Gardens combines Gothic influences with Art Deco touches

an amazing Santiago Calatrava building.

For kids, Legoland Florida Resort offers rides, interactive adventures and entertainment. The park also includes a historical botanical garden – once one of Florida’s classic attractions, Cypress Gardens.

A dude ranch in Florida? Sounds crazy – but the state has impressive cowboy history. Pay homage at Westgate River Ranch Resort. The Ranch offers horseback riding and rodeo but also swamp buggy and airboat rides and so much more. For more outdoor exploration visit the Circle B Bar Reserve, once a working cattle ranch.

Polk County is also a great base for exploring other Florida favorites – about an hour to Orlando to the east and the same to Tampa to the west.

The choice of accommodations is almost unlimited – the usual hotels and chains – but over 7,000 rental vacation homes and condominiums. These homes away from home make perfect launching sites for exploring the many pleasures of Central Florida.

I love Polk County because you get the flavor of authentic Florida – but with easy access to so many of its

Paths wind through the aerial roots of an 80-year-old banyan tree in the Botanical Garden at Legoland.

modern attractions. Go if you can, but if ou can’t, try a taste of the state with a slice of grapefruit pie!

Mary Lang’s Grapefruit Pie Yield: 8 servings Preparation: 15 minutes Cook: 10 Minutes Refrigerate: 2 to 3 hours 1 (6 ounce) graham cracker crust 2 large or 3 medium red Lang grapefruit, sectioned 1 cup sugar 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1 1/2 cups water 1 (3 ounce) package strawberry flavored gelatin 1 (8 ounce) container frozen non dairy whipped topping, thawed arrange grapefruit sections in graham cracker crust. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch. Add water and cook over medium heat until thick and clear. Add gelatin and stir to dissolve. Let cool slightly. Pour gelatin over grapefruit sections in crust. Refrigerate until firm.

Top with whipped topping.

Page 14 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Bill Murray comes through in ‘On the Rocks’

By George Gust “On the Rocks” is and Apple TV Plus original movie written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sophia Coppola (“Lost in Translation”).

And follows a young mother, Laura, (Rashida Jones) who reconnects with her larger-than-life playboy father (Bill Murray) on an adventure through New York.

The Coppola name carries so much weight in filmmaking, and throughout her career Sofia has shown the same expert filmmaking skill of her father with award winning and evocative films.

“On the Rocks” lands somewhere in the middle of her filmography, with her signature downtempo style and dialogue rich storytelling. The difference in this film, is that the film feels like a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the minds and lives of dynamic and entertaining characters.

The “A” story of “On the Rocks” is the emotional journey of Laura dealing with the pressures of parenthood and career who suspects her husband (Marlon Wayans) of being unfaithful in their marriage. However, the more interesting plot the film follows is the fractured relationship between Laura and her charming and incorrigible

father. And throughout the film, you get glances at the deeper feelings and father-daughter relationship, but these moments of clarity and sincerity are fleeting. Perhaps it was the intent to convey the mundane and everyday nature of familial relationships, which theme is made clear through the depiction of Laura’s modern day-today routines in upper class New York, but the end result is a feeling of anti-climax.

In terms of performances, “On the Rocks” features a fun dynamic between Jones and Murray, but there is no denying that Murray is having loads of fun in this film and steals the film.

Often in late career Murray you get an under-

stated serious, tongue-in-cheek at best, performances, but in “On the Rocks” he is looser than those performances, coming closer to the rakish charm from his famously comedic roles. And in opposition to Murray’s larger than life persona, Jones brings the reality and the emotional fallout of being close with a roguish lifelong cad.

Overall, “On the Rocks” features a fun performance from Murray, and a beautifully shot film with sharp dialogue, but the film’s story and pacing doesn’t quite match with the top shelf talent in front of and behind the camera. “On the Rocks” is a downtempo and moody movie that has a cool level of maturity that fits perfectly for adults, especially parents, who are looking for a smart and entertaining movie for adults.

“On the Rocks” is rated R for some language/sexual references. Now streaming on Apple TV Plus.

3.8 out of 5 stars .

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

PHOTO PROVIDED

‘On the Rocks’ reunites Bill Murray with his ‘Lost in Translation’ writer/director Sofia Coppola, as the playboy father of a young mother (Rashida Jones) going through a difficult time in New York. Now streaming on Apple TV Plus.

Answers appearing on Page 19

Crossword Puzzle

Integris helps out struggling families Many Oklahomans continue to struggle financially due to the prolonged nature of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At Integris Health, they want to help these families put food on their tables.

That’s why they have held numerous food drives at the metro hospitals. The results are in from the joint food drive held at both Integris Canadian Valley Hospital and Integris Health Edmond.

Thanks to the generosity of caregivers, they were able to donate $1,010 and deliver 390 pounds of food to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. In all, that will provide 4,365 meals to Oklahomans living with hunger.

An official with the hospital chain commented.

“At INTEGRIS, we are humbled by the generous community support we are still receiving in the form of personal protective equipment, sanitation supplies and donated meals. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us from the beginning of this ordeal.”

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: CARTOON CHARACTERS ACROSS 1. Brocadopa or Larodopa 6. They are often covert 9. Used for watering 13. Vexed 14. Took the bait 15. Spot for boutonniËre 16. Old West pack animal 17. Big-headedness 18. Render harmless 19. *Bamm-Bamm's dad 21. *Angelica, Tommy and Dil 23. Opposite of yang 24. Archipelago unit 25. Solemn pledge 28. Depletes 30. Works, as in a bakery 35. Kind of beige 37. Hammer or sickle 39. ____ firma 40. Lecherous look 41. Computer key 43. Lure for a dieter, on a package 44. Tropical smoothie flavor 46. Health club offering 47. Hourglass filler 48. Popular saint's name 50. Pea ____, pl.

52. Limit, to some 53. Peace symbol 55. Like King George, 17601820 57. *Ill-tempered fourthgrader's last name 61. *Beast Boy and Starfire 64. Rossini's offering 65. Lobe locale 67. Sure sign of fire 69. Pretend, two words 70. Number cruncher, acr.

71. Lusitania destroyer 72. Gave the boot 73. Pivotal 74. Santa Maria's companion

DOWN 1. Party choice, abbr.

2. Clobber 3. Southern stew staple 4. *Stepbrothers' bipedal platypus 5. Apollo Creed's son 6. Toe the line 7. *Peppa's or George's last name 8. "The buck ____ here" 9. *King of the Hill 10. Milky-white gem 11. Dry as dust 12. Popular street-lining trees 15. Aglow 20. Related on mother's side 22. Type 24. Carbon-12 or carbon13 25. *The "brains" of Scooby-Doo's group 26. Billy of '80s Billboard charts 27. Small songbirds 29. *Pinky Pie or Fluttershy 31. Unagi, pl.

32. A in A=ab, pl.

33. Did it to Kool-Aid 34. *Land mammal in Bikini Bottom 36. Give a pep talk 38. *Emmet Brickowski's brick 42. Spokes of a wheel, e.g.

45. *Mr. Magoo or Mr. Burns, e.g.

49. Bygone bird of New Zealand 51. Opposite of 'lies down' 54. Sweater style 56. More than one iamb 57. Float liquid 58. Mt. Everest to Earth 59. Network of nerves 60. Walked on 61. Cafeteria carrier 62. High part of day 63. 3-handed card game 66. *Magilla Gorilla, e.g.

68. Pilot's announcement

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 15

What a difference a day makes The photographs above and below are of the same tree in Downtown Edmond. On Wednesday ice and rain made the branches buckle. Below, a day of sunshine was enough to restore most of the luster, beauty and shape of the tree.

RAY HIBBARD

Page 16 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Training geriatric providers on virus safety Geriatrics, infectious disease, nursing and public health experts at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center are offering training to nursing home providers across Oklahoma on how to best keep their residents safe and engaged as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

In Oklahoma, 40% of all deaths due to COVID-19 are among nursing home residents, yet they account for less than 1% of the state’s population. At the same time, there is a rise in infections among people ages 18 to 35, which tends to be the age of nursing home staff, who may unknowingly bring the virus into the facility. Those factors underscore the necessity of training and creating best practices concerning COVID-19, said geriatrician Lee Jennings, M.D., faculty member in the OU College of Medicine.

“Older adults who live in nursing

homes tend to be frail and in poor health, which puts them at much higher risk for bad outcomes or death if they contract COVID-19,” Jennings said. “We want to train and support nursing home providers so they can prevent COVID-19 infections and be prepared for how to care for residents who do become infected. Nursing homes also need to be prepared to respond to changing regulations and have best practices around personal protective equipment, and screening and testing staff members, among other considerations.”

The OU Health Sciences Center is uniquely positioned to offer this training because it has existing relationships with nursing homes through the Oklahoma Dementia Care Network.

The value of these partnerships is evident as the COVID-19 training launches, Jennings said.

The training is being funded by the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality through a program called Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes). Based at the University of New Mexico, Project ECHO is a national model that allows partners like the OU Health Sciences Center to access the most current medical information and best practices for nursing home providers during COVID-19.

Project ECHO addresses many other health issues by partnering with academic medical centers to train primary care physicians in underserved and remote areas to become experts in subspecialty care.

The training, which is being offered to all Oklahoma nursing homes, consists of a 16-week boot camp for managing COVID-19 and related quality improvement steps, plus weekly “office hours” for a year. All sessions will be conducted virtually on Zoom. Each participating nursing home receives up to $6,000 to use as they need, Jennings said. In addition to specialists from the OU Health Sciences Center, national quality improvement experts from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement will take part in each session. Other collaborators include the Oklahoma State Department of Health, the Oklahoma Foundation for Medical Quality, and Telligen, the quality improvement organization designated for Oklahoma by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

In addition to training and mentoring nursing home providers on issues specific to the virus, the sessions will address social isolation and continuing mobility for residents during the pandemic, Jennings said.

“While it has been necessary for nursing homes to limit visitation, that has been really hard on residents and families. There are spouses who have spent every day of their adult lives together and now can’t see one another. The toll it is taking is

heartbreaking. There are similar situations with their children, grandchildren and other family members,” she said. “We want to promote guidelines for visitation when that becomes possible, perhaps visiting outside with family members wearing personal protective equipment. For now, we can use technology for virtual visits, and we need to make sure everyone involved knows how to best do that.”

Nursing home staff should also help residents and families talk about their loved one’s wishes should they become infected and very sick with COVID-19, Jennings said. “Best practices for advance care planning are important,” she said. “It’s vital that nursing home staff know what your loved one would want in that situation – do they want to go to the hospital, and what are their wishes for treatment if they do go the hospital?

The impact of COVID-19 has pushed those conversations to the forefront in nursing homes, and we can help.”

After COVID-19 training is finished, the same network will be helpful for nursing homes going forward as other issues develop, such as making COVID-19 vaccines available, or additional topics that are especially relevant to nursing homes, Jennings said.

“This new network is a nice opportunity to provide nursing homes with the latest information and quality improvement tools on an ongoing basis,” she said. “It’s also a valuable tool for nursing home providers to reach out to their peers in other facilities and ask them what does and doesn’t work. No one knows better what the challenges are than the people who work in nursing homes. Ultimately, we all want to take the very best care of older adults that we can.”

Nursing homes can sign up to participate by emailing okdcnecho@ouhsc.edu, calling (405) 271-8166 or visiting dcn.ouhsc.edu.

Some activities happening in November ---- In the Gallery: Sheryl McCain ---- You Are Here – Film Debut and Gallery Talk ---- You Are Here Interactive Exhibit ---- You Are Here – Closing Reception ---- Commonplace Books Fall & Holiday Popup Season ---- Darci Lynne’s Got Talent Exhibit ---- What’s Cooking, Edmond?

---- UCO Symphony Orchestra ---- Rollin’ Deep ---- OK Ale Trail: Run Through the Railyard ---- Back to the 1950s ---- Winter Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Wine Class – Second Wednesdays ---- Romeros Guitar Quartet & MezzoSoprano Isabel Leonard ---- Barrel Futurities of America World Championships ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Veterans Day Special Release Party ---- Turkey Shoot Doubles 2020 ---- Holiday Extravaganza ---- Holiday Bazaar ---- Edmond Electric’s Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll ---- 2020 Edmond Turkey Trot 5K – 10 Mile Bike ---- Chris Neal’s Rising Stars of Calf Roping ---- A Gingerbread Tea Party ---- Museum Store Holiday Open House ---- Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Our Universe: Star Peoples of Skidi ---- Drop-In Drawing ---- Cherokee Cultural Celebration ---- Perked-Up Playdates ---- Small Works, Great Wonders ---- Late Night at the Museum ---- Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm ---- Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: The Magic of John Williams ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: The Inner Realm ---- Downtown in December ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show ---- Mistletoe Market ---- Festival of Freaks

---- Pool & Spa Show ---- The Santa Market Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery: Sheryl McCain Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Free; David Padgett’s art will be displayed during the month of October.

You are Here – Film Debut and Gallery Talk Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Melton Gallery Extra Info: Thu, Nov 5; 5 – 7:30 p.m.; facebook.com You Are Here Interactive Exhibit Location: University of Central Oklahoma ---- Melton Gallery Extra Info: Ends Thu, Nov 19; Free; 12-4 p.m.; Mon – Thursday; facebook.com You Are Here – Closing Reception Location: University of Central Oklahoma ---- Melton Gallery Extra Info: Thu, Nov 19; 5-7:30 p.m.; facebook.com Commonplace Books Fall & Holiday Popup Season Location: Commonplace Books, Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Wed, Oct 28 – Dec 31; Mon – Sat, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sun, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

What’s Cooking, Edmond?

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Free; Wed, Oct 28 – Tue, Aug 31; edmondhistory.org UCO Symphony Orchestra Location: University of Central Oklahoma Extra Info: Thu, Nov. 5; 7:30 p.m.; visit edmondok.com

(A complete look at all the events is now on our web page. Please visit www.edmondlifeandleisure.com)

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 17

Open Enrollment under way for ACA The 2021 Open Enrollment Period for individual health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) runs from now to Tuesday, Dec. 15. Oklahomans who do not have health insurance through their employer, Medicare, or Medicaid may be eligible to purchase coverage through the health insurance marketplace. Due to COVID-19’s impact on Oklahoma employers and communities, the Oklahoma Insurance Department expects to see increased demand for ACA individual health insurance plans, including on and off-exchange health plans.

“We strive to support all Oklahomans looking for coverage and recognize many who lost their employer coverage due to the pandemic may be new to the marketplace,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “I made it an early

priority to increase options for consumers and I am excited to meet our goal and double the number of plans on the marketplace."

The same three insurers that offered individual health plans on the 2020 Exchange will return for 2021 — Blue Cross Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK) , Bright Health and Medica Insurance Company. In 2021, Oscar Health, UnitedHealthCare (UHC) and CommunityCare Oklahoma (CCOK) will join the marketplace in Oklahoma. BCBSOK and Medica offer statewide plans while Bright Health, CCOK, Oscar and UHC serve limited areas of the state.

“Shop around and look for a plan that truly meets your needs. I encourage you to talk with your insurance agent to become familiar with marketplace options,” Mulready said.

If you are currently uninsured: you can visit

healthcare.gov to compare plans and enroll in a plan that meets your health care needs.

If you already have health insurance: you will be automatically re-enrolled in your existing plan if it is still available. Even if you are satisfied with your current plan, review your coverage and compare plans to ensure you can select the best option for you.

Visit https://www.healthcare.gov/see-plans/ to view plan options, estimate monthly premiums and total annual out-of-pocket costs for each plan and learn how to buy a plan. You can also determine if you qualify for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) at https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/.

If you have questions about other insurance issues, please contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1-800-522-0071.

EEDA official gets national recognition for her skills a rigorous and comprehensive exSarah Dickson, communications direcamination, which has three parts tor for the Edmond Economic Developand spans two days. The exam ment Authority, recently earned the tests a practitioner’s knowledge, designation of Certified Economic Develproficiency and judgment in the oper (CEcD), a national recognition that following key areas of economic denotes a mastery of skills in economic development: development, professional attainment and a commitment to personal and pro· business retention and expanfessional growth. sion The CEcD exam, administered by the · finance & credit analysis International Economic Development · marketing and attraction Council (IEDC), intends to unite the eco· strategic planning nomic development field by establishing · entrepreneurial & small busia baseline of core knowledge for econess development nomic development professionals.

Dickson · managing economic developThe CEcD designation recognizes qualiment organizations fied and dedicated practitioners in the economic · neighborhood development strategies development field and sets the standard of excel· real estate development & reuse lence within the profession. Candidates must pass

Market on track to sell 5,000 homes this year

A brisk home market Editor’s Note: Brian Preston is an Edmond Realtor and follows the trends of the industry in an online blog called the Preston Report.

By Brian Preston The upward trend is still rolling.

September saw a high of up 47.29% over last last September. with 175 more closings that last year.

That brings year to date sales up 11.73% with 431 more closings through September.

Pending contracts are up 52% from last year and active listings are down 42%. So actually about the same number of houses coming on the market but they are just selling that quick.

Inventory is hard to find in some price ranges and almost impossible in a few.

Absorption rates are at all time lows some are measured in days

when a few years ago they were all measured by months. New homes are enjoying a huge rebound after the down years since 2014. and the big ones are having the best year ever. with an absorption rate better that then the existing market.

With the pending contracts we should make a new record of 5,000 homes sold in a year for 2020.

We only need 611 more closing in the last quarter to beat last year’s record, we have more than that already under contract.

That is, if they all close.

Looking back we need to thank state and local leaders that said real estate was an essential business. Of course the old saying of essentials "food and shelter." Pennsylvania, did not and completely shut down the real estate industry. I wonder where we would be this record year if We had done that here.

Looking for a job?

Metro organization needs to fill 30 positions See Page 19

· technology-led economic development · workforce development strategies · foreign direct investment & exporting Excellence in the economic development profession improves economic well-being and quality of life for individuals, businesses and communities.

There are currently more than 1,100 active CEcDs in the United States.

About the Edmond Economic Development Authority The EEDA exists to offer resources that stimulate the growth of Edmond’s economy by creating and maintaining an optimum environment for both new and existing businesses, offering services that facilitate the growth and expansion of those businesses and generating opportunities to increase the sales tax base of the city of Edmond.

Page 18 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Help your child become grateful

By Lisa Kadavy Edmond Family Counseling As we enter into the Thanksgiving season, I reflect on how fortunate we are to be living the life we have and the importance of teaching children to be grateful.

By learning gratitude, children become sensitive to the feelings of Lisa Kadavy others, by developing empathy and other life skills along the way.

Grateful children appreciate what others do for them. On the flip side, kids who aren’t taught gratitude may end up feeling entitled and disappointed.

Studies have shown that people who are grateful are considerably happier ( 25% more) than those who are not grateful. Are you aware top universities such as Yale and Stanford are teaching students to prioritize happiness, not money and power? A growing number of universities are offering courses that aim to put students on the happiness track by teaching students how to be connected with their community, better citizens, socially connected, and practice gratitude.

Mental Health issues among children, adolescence, and young adults are on the rise around the world. Overwhelming anxiety and depression are becoming more prevalent. We must teach children ways to live an emotionally rich, balanced, and happy life. The fact that research supports individuals who are grateful are happier in life inspires me.

Adults can begin teaching an attitude of gratitude to children at a young age. Instilling grateful feelings now will benefit your child later in life.

Here are some helpful tips to instill an attitude of gratitude in your children: n Model the practice of gratitude in your life as an adult. Emphasize the use of “thank you” as an

example of how to show gratitude which demonstrates good manners and appreciation. n Insist your children write thank you notes.

Younger children can draw or dictate the letter while you write. The act of verbalizing out loud why the gift was appreciated will make a child feel more grateful and appreciative. n Model offering help to those in need around you. Hold the door open for others, help someone carry packages, demonstrate patience while waiting in line at the grocery store. Modeling acts of kindness is a way of giving back. n Purchase a gratitude journal for your child.

Have them write down or draw three things they are grateful for each day. Talk with your child about the reasons we have to be grateful in life.

Start your own gratitude journal and share your list with your children! n Expose your children to diverse cultures and life experiences. Giving children perspective and a sense of their lives compared to others allows a natural appreciation to develop. n Model giving back to your community. If your local church or school hosts a food drive or school supply drive, have your children assist you in picking out the items for the less fortunate. Explain to your children the importance of helping others in time of need. n Practice saying no. Children will naturally ask for toys, video games and candy frequently. It is difficult to feel grateful when you are granted

everything you desire. Saying no will make children much more grateful when saying yes is granted. n Give your child chores around the house.

Chores give children a sense of ownership and responsibility in the household. Assist your child as needed and compliment them on a job well done.

If they are given a small allowance, let them use their money to buy special treats or toys for themselves. Understanding the value of money can assist the teaching process of becoming grateful. n Emphasize gratitude with a Thankfulness Jar. Throughout the week remind your children to write down items on a piece of paper in which they are grateful and place them in the jar. Thanksgiving Day is a wonderful holiday to emphasize this trait. Have each family member choose a piece of paper from the Thankfulness Jar and read it aloud around the table at your Thanksgiving feast.

“No one is born grateful,” says life coach Mary Jane Ryan, author of Attitudes of Gratitude. “Recognizing that someone has gone out of the way for you is not a natural behavior for children—it’s learned.” As children mature and grow their ability to communicate appreciation and gratitude will emerge. Until then, our job as parents is to model the behavior of gratitude and make it a part of the daily family ritual. Thanksgiving is the perfect time of year to reflect on gratitude in your own life.

Make sure you include your children in the ritual.

(Edmond Family is a non-profit organization. We may be reached at 405-341-3554 to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed professional counselors. Donations may be made to Edmond Family Counseling, 1251 N. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034 or online @www.edmondfamily.org by clicking the yellow DONATE button).

Lisa Kadavy, M.Ed., NBCSC, is Elementary School Group Facilitator for Edmond Family Counseling.

She recalls surviving bout with COVID-19 On Friday, Sept. 11, Heidi Newlin of Cherokee, Okla., woke up with a fever and bad headache behind her eyes.

With talk of COVID-19 on every news channel, in every café and in every newspaper, her mind naturally went to the possibility that she had contracted the virus. She couldn’t pinpoint where, however.

On Monday, Newlin went to see her primary care provider, Niki LewisWyatt, P.A.-C, to be tested. She was prescribed an antibiotic that day and began taking it immediately while she waited for her results. Two days later, the results came back. She was positive for COVID-19.

Newlin’s symptoms began improving immediately after starting the antibiotic. It seemed she might be one of the lucky ones who survive COVID mostly unscathed. She wasn’t completely without symptoms, though. She did lose her sense of smell and taste, along with her appetite, and she had low energy.

After being sick for a week, however, more concerning symptoms began to develop.

“It moved into the stomach flu phase of my illness,” she said. “I had all of the symptoms of the intestinal flu. It was unlike anything I have ever experienced in my life.”

After several days of pain and not eating or drinking, she decided it was time to go to the hospital.

“Even though I was taking more medicine, I did not believe I would improve without some medical intervention,” she said. “I was terribly dehydrated.”

On Sept. 22, her husband, David,

Integris Personnel Praised drove her to Enid. After examination in the INTEGRIS Bass Baptist Health Center Emergency Department, she was admitted. A second COVID-19 test was administered, and she was still positive for the virus. She was now 11 days past the initial onset. Her husband also tested positive for the virus so was not able to visit her. Newlin stayed in touch with friends and family during her hospital stay via her cell phone.

Newlin was correct. Quick medical intervention had her feeling better in no time. It looked like she was out of the woods. Unfortunately, COVID-19 had other plans. On Thursday, Sept.

24, she could add atrial fibrillation to her list of symptoms. Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as A-fib, is an irregular heartbeat caused by an abnormal heart rhythm that makes the upper heart chambers quiver.

Newlin was hooked up to a monitor when her heart went into A-fib and alerted her medical team.

“My nurse, Donna Gering, came flying into my room with her superhero cape (gown) on backward and saved the day,” Newlin said. “I believe the heart problems were already there, but now we had evidence on record. God had the best plan for me!”

Once her A-fib was under control and her other symptom stable, Newlin was released from the hospital. That was Sept. 26.

Throughout her stay at INTEGRIS, Newlin witnessed several examples of caregivers graciously serving others, she said.

“The actions of the staff were very

Integris personnel committed to helping others.

deliberate, well-planned out and wellexecuted,” she said, “even though their ‘virus armor’ made their work even more challenging. They were not stand-offish or distant. They delivered warm, wonderful, personalized care and did not hesitate to go out of their way to meet my patient or personal needs. They served me with a smile and kindness.”

Like so many others, Newlin is ready for life to get back to normal again. She would love to be able to see her family and show them love. She wants to console people who have suffered losses.

“I would love to celebrate marriages and births without the shadow of the virus looming overhead,” she said.

“And take part in activities. I hope to celebrate the holidays with my family.”

Newlin said she wants to share her COVID-19 experience so that others can see that it’s a real virus that affects people differently.

“Some people may experience light

symptoms. Other people suffer the more serious strain of the virus, which includes breathing problems,” she said.

“Please, be considerate and respectful to family members, friends and community members as you go through your day. Please, wear a mask and wash your hands to protect yourself and people with whom you may come in contact. It will take each one of us to beat this as a community.”

Finally, Newlin would like to thank her primary care provider Niki LewisWyatt, INTEGRIS Cardiologist John Schrader, M.D., and INTEGRIS Bass Hospitalist Best Chen, M.D., as well as all her caregivers at the hospital.

“Each and every one of them gave me top-quality care in the midst of this nasty virus,” she said. “I want to thank them for the sacrifices they are making to improve the lives of their patients.

May they and their families be protected from the virus as they continue to battle on the frontlines.”

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 5, 2020 • Page 19

Stores help food bank raise $221,189 to assist needy Oklahomans helped to raise $221,189 for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma through Walmart and Sam’s Club’s “Fight Hunger.

Spark Change.� campaign. In its seventh year, Walmart and Sam’s Club engaged their customers and members, along with 22 suppliers to fight hunger during the COVID-19 pandemic and support local food banks across the country. “Joining in the fight against hunger has never been more important than now, with the increasing number of Oklahomans in need of food assistance as a result of the pandemic,� said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. “We are incredibly grateful for Walmart, Sam’s Club, their associates, suppliers and everyone in our commu-

Will purchase almost 900,000 meals nity who helped to support the ‘Fight Hunger.

Spark Change.’ campaign.�

Oklahomans participated in the campaign by purchasing select items from Walmart stores and Sam's Clubs during the promotion period. Customers also had the option to round up their purchases to benefit the Regional Food Bank.

The donations come at a time when Feeding America projects food insecurity in Oklahoma to worsen across the state due to the COVID19 pandemic. The donation will help provide 884,756 meals to Oklahomans living with hunger in the Regional Food Bank's 53 county service-area in central and western Oklahoma. “This year’s Fight Hunger. Spark Change. campaign is especially

critical given the great need communities are facing,� said Maria Zazycki, senior manager, Walmart.org. “We are incredibly proud of the way our customers, members, suppliers and associates stepped up to support local Feeding America member food banks that are working so hard.�

Sunbeam announces hiring plans Sunbeam Family Services seeks to immediately hire nearly 30 positions to support its early education centers.

Open positions include certified teachers for infants and toddlers and family advocates. “Sunbeam is a leader in early childhood care and education for OKC, and we are growing,� said Paula Gates, chief program officer for early childhood services. “We are opening new schools targeted for the early years of development, serving birth to three across the metro. We are looking for qualified teachers dedicated to building strong children and families, practice good health and well-being, and appreciate high-quality learning opportunities.�

This year, Sunbeam will help 680 children from birth to age 3 prepare for school and life success. The nonprofit is looking to hire more teachers and staff to support infants, toddlers and their families. “We are the Early Head Start provider for Oklahoma City, that provides a low teacher-child ratio, beautiful and creative learning environments, and comprehensive wrap-around services for families,� said Gates. “Our teachers are the heart-beat of our child care centers.

We are an employee first organization to serve our community best!�

To learn more about joining the Sunbeam family, visit SunbeamFamilyServices.org/careers.

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In light of COVID 19 for the time being, some worship services may be suspended or online.

Please check with your house of worship for more information.

Page 20 • November 5, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure