Edmond Life and Leisure - November 19, 2020

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November 19, 2020 Vol. 21, No. 27

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

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.

vid.”

New school to feature Entrepreneurship Academy See Page 8

FRIDAY, November 20 Sunny High 75° Low 58°

SATURDAY, November 21 PM Showers High 70° Low 44°

SUNDAY, November 22 Showers High 53° Low 34°

Edmond Electric’s Luminance is set to light up Mitch Park beginning Saturday, Nov. 21. Luminance is a free walk-thru holiday light display that is open to the public thru Jan. 3.

Residents and visitors will experience a one-of-a-kind holiday lighting event that features more than 30, large individual light displays along with lighting on the trees, pathways and pavilions in the park. Visitors are sure to see something they’ve never seen before with Edmond being the premier city in Oklahoma to feature 3D light displays.

The lights come on every day from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. To learn more

about Luminance, visit http://edmondlights.com.

When visiting Luminance, residents and visitors are encouraged to head across the parking lot to the annual Edmond Ice Rink presented by Edmond Electric. The rink is open daily in the afternoon and evening. For more information about the rink, visit https://edmondicerink.com.

Due to COVID-19, visitors are encouraged to social distance while enjoying Luminance. Staff also asks that displays not be touched or climbed on, but taking pictures is always encouraged.

It all begins on Saturday, Nov.

21. We hope everyone will join us for this holiday fun that helps make our community a great place to grow!them not to get too close to their classmates,” said Jernigan.

Simplicity and consistency are key for elementary students in 2020, she said.

“Teachers and administrators have adapted beautifully to these challenging times and are coming up with their own methods and techniques that work for their particular students. Every change in procedure has been about one thing-keeping students and staff safe.”

Page 2 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 19, 2020 • Page 3

Filing nears for EPS board seat Individuals interested in running as a candidate for Seat No. 1 on the Edmond Public Schools Board of Education may file Dec. 7-9, 2020 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Oklahoma County Election Board located at 4201 N. Lincoln Boulevard.

The primary election, if more than two people file for election, will be held on Feb. 9, 2021. If no more than two people file for election, the general election will be held on April 6, 2021.

Edmond’s school board has five members, one from each election district who serves a five-year term.

One board member’s term expires each year. The current school board members are Lee Ann Kuhlman, Seat

No. 1; Kathleen Duncan, Seat No. 2; Jamie Underwood, Seat No. 3; Cynthia Benson, Seat No. 4; and Meredith Exline, Seat No. 5. Kuhlman’s term for Seat No. 1 is expiring. She is seeking re-election. Boundary lines for District No.1 can be found by going to edmondschools.net.

To be eligible to be a member of the Board of Education a candidate must live in the district, be a registered voter in the district, have a high school diploma or equivalency, and not have any felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions involving embezzlement. In addition, a candidate may not be employed by the district or have immediate family members employed by the district.

Donation to EPS Foundation -As part of the One Edmond Campaign, Edmond Public Schools teachers and employees have pledged $50,000 this year for classrooms! The Edmond Public Schools Foundation is asking the community to match the teachers and make a gift now through December 31st.

“We all know how much our teachers give to our students in their classrooms, and I know how hard all of the Edmond Public Schools employees have been working the past several months, so to know they are also donating out of their own pockets to help our kids is amazing!” said Deanna Boston, Edmond Public Schools Foundation Executive Director.

Of the 3,000 Edmond Public Schools employees, 529 have donated or pledged a total of $50,000 through payroll deduction or one-time gifts this

school year. The average EPS employee gift is $9 a month, or a onetime donation of $89. We are asking that 500 community members match the teachers and employees and make a one-time donation of $100 or sign up for a monthly recurring gift of $10 here www.edmondpsf.org Jennifer Cain, One Edmond Cochair shared, “During these challenging times, it’s more important than ever for us to come together to support our teachers and students! You can make a positive difference by joining us in the ONE Edmond Campaign to give back and support Edmond Public Schools.” Anyone can donate on our website, or set up a Team Captain fundraising page to help secure additional funding for our classrooms and district needs at www.edmondpsf.org

Obituary notices Marian D. “Cooksey” Hood November 6, 1943 – November 11, 2020 Edmond Marian D. Hood, 77, went on to meet her Lord and Savior peacefully on November 11, 2020.

Marian was born in Ada, Oklahoma, on November 6, 1943 to Edwin H. Miller and Joella B. Miller (Teeter). She is survived by her husband Paul Hood; daughter Ronnie Anne Cooksey; grandson Ryan Baker and his wife Jenna; three great-grandsons, Maverick, Michael, and James Baker; and nephews, Dustin Belden, and Glenn and Lee Miller.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Gary Edwin Miller, and sister Joella Denise Miller.

In Marian’s initial years she worked for Lockheed Martin, Rockwell International, and North American Rockwell as well as in the Oil and Gas industry, GHK, and Slawson Oil. For many years she worked as a Realtor in the Oklahoma City and Edmond areas with Abide, Prudential, and Re-max and Associates of Edmond. In Marian’s later years she worked as Deputy Chief of Staff for the Lt. Governor for eight years and followed by twelve years as a State Representative for House District 39.

Marian loved the Arts and had an “eye” for decorating. She traveled to many countries with her family and friends. She volunteered with Meals-on-Wheels and reading to the children at Edmond Elementary Schools. She was always up for a new adventure and loved her Lexi and a cold Dr. Pepper. Her wonderful smile will be missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services were held at the Edmond First Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Edmond Humanity Hospice. Services are under the direction of Matthews Funeral Home.

Patrica Ann (Thomas) Schweer Patrica Ann Thomas Schweer was youngest daughter born of John and Mary Potter Thomas, Weleetka, OK, November 26,1931.

Her father moving with the oilfield, Patrica, (“Patricia”), quickly learned how to make friends and accept new challenges. She graduated from Douglass High School, Douglass, KS, attended community college and moved to California, graduating as a stewardess and modelling for the Estelle Compton agency. She was an original Dial Soap print model.

While waiting to begin as a stewardess, she worked at Beech Aircraft, serving as secretary for the love of her life, Louis Schweer. Louis fell in love with Pat the first time he saw her, walking down the staircase to their office where they would share a desk. They were married February 8,1953 just a few months following that walk down the stairs.

The newlyweds moved to Covington, OK to work the family Land Run farm and raise their four children, being named the 1975 Garfield County Farm Family of the Year. Working for many years at Lamberts Clothing, Enid, OK, Pat went on to work for McDonald’s and was awarded its “National Super Star” for innovative work in community relations. She additionally directed community relations for KXLS Radio, March of Dimes, AARP, and NODA, where she was awarded “Outstanding Informational Specialist of the Year”.

Very active in St. John’s Lutheran Church, Pat’s favorite way to give glory to her Lord was preparing the Sanctuary flowers and beautiful center pieces from her backyard flowers. A favorite pastime was sitting on the porch overlooking the gardens, creating the arrangements in her mind.

Pat and Louis moved to Edmond in 2014 to Touchmark, where she loved playing Nana Claus in Christmas celebrations and Laura Ingalls for her daughter’s second grade classes.

Pat was preceded in death by parents, John and Mary Thomas, and sisters, Marguerite Stephenson and Jean Eeds.

She is survived by husband, Louis, of 67 years of the home, children Windler Schweer and Kathy, Carlisle, MA, MaryBeth Smith and Bill, Arcadia, OK, Jennifer Gardner and Bryan, Augusta, KS, Rebecca Easterly and Richard, Edmond, OK. Her grandchildren brought her such pride: Zane Schweer, Parker Schweer, Tiffany Smith Cargill, Christel Smith Miles, Amanda Gardner Huelskamp, Reynolds Gardner, Brittany Easterly Lay, Stephanie Easterly Shellabarger, and Christopher Easterly and eleven great grandchildren, her sister-in-law, Joy Schweer, Covington and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held by Crawford Family Funeral Service. Memorial donations in the honor of Pat can be made to the Salvation Army of Enid, 516 N Independence, Enid, OK 73701 or by calling (580) 237-1910.

Page 4 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Mourning the loss of a community leader I am not clear if it is just because I am at that age or if it is part of what life has become in 2020 but Edmond has lost another great leader. Marian Dee Hood fell asleep in the Lord last Wednesday and she is so missed by her family, friends, and this community. We want to offer our sincere condolences to her husband Paul and the entire fam- Ray Hibbard ily. I just cannot remember when I have known a nicer soul on this earth.

We first met our friend Marian when she was running for State Representative for Oklahoma House District 39. She was the underdog for the race but ended up in the Republican run off. Her opponent must have thought she would do a good job as well because he dropped out of the runoff leaving her to end up taking the seat. Not only did she win but she did it with kindness and with her gentle nature. Marian went on to serve six terms from 2004 to 2016 until she termed out as the representative for much of Edmond.

She was absolute proof that you can still be a nice, caring, kind person and still be successful in politics. She served her district well and was as strong as any of her fellow legislators. Marian’s best strength was that she listened to people. She sincerely wanted to know what was on their minds. Her smile won over many of us over the years. I honestly cannot remember ever being greeted by her with anything but a smile. She served with a positive and can-do attitude.

My wife, Lisa, and I had an instant connection to Marian and her husband Paul Hood. Like us, they had first met in junior high but reconnect later in life. Marian was from an Air Force family and they moved many times over the course of her childhood. Marian and her family landed in Paul’s world when they were transferred to Ft. Worth, Texas where he served as the neighborhood paper boy. Paul claims that she invited him to the sweetheart dance in junior high. This is where our stories part because I had to invite Lisa to the junior high dance. But, like me, Paul knew he had out kicked his punt coverage as they say when it comes to Marian. Her family later moved to Arkansas and then on to Germany via the Air Force.

Fast forward about a lifetime and the two reconnected. The church both Paul and Marian attended in junior high was full of active teenagers. In October 2010 they were having a reunion that Paul did not attend but Marian did. Paul’s brother also attended the reunion and brought back a list of email contacts so people could stay in touch. Paul noticed that Marian’s contact information was on that list. He googled Marian and the rest is history as they say. From spending only, a small amount of time with Paul and Marian I can tell you they adored each other. They both had that dreamy look in their eyes no matter how boring the banquet or meeting might have been. They were enjoying life together.

Marian D. Hood, 77, went on to meet her Lord and Savior peacefully on Nov. 11, 2020. She was born in Ada, Oklahoma, on November 6, 1943 to Edwin H. Miller and Joella B. Miller (Teeter). She is survived by her husband Paul Hood; daughter Ron-

District 39 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. As her AT&T legislative point of contact, we worked closely together on many bills during her career at the Oklahoma State Capitol. She always was very interested in learning everything she could to broaden her knowledge of AT&T and always was very supportive of the Company. In addition to becoming a very dear friend and confidant, she became much more than a very dear friend, Marian became like a sister to me. In fact, she would call me her sister which absolutely warmed my heart more than words can convey.

She was “right by my side” when my Mother died in April 2015. She served as an Honorary Pall Bearer at her funeral. Marian was again “right by my side” and served as my caretaker and nurse for many weeks during a rotator cuff surgery recovery in October, 2015, coming to our home every day from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. to do whatever I asked and needed her to do to help me. As I write this tribute to my “sister,” I feel a sense of profound sadness and loss that my words cannot begin to express. I absolutely am heartbroken and will miss her dearly. Heaven has gained an Angel.”

Jan Moran, Area Manager-External Affairs, AT&T Oklahoma “Marian was a sweet and kind soul who took her job as a legislator very seriously and never wavered from her principles and values. I will miss my friend and former colleague very much.”

Ken Miller, former Oklahoma State Treasurer Marian Hood nie Anne Cooksey; grandson Ryan Baker and his wife Jenna; three great-grandsons, Maverick, Michael, and James Baker; and nephews, Dustin Belden, and Glenn and Lee Miller. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Gary Edwin Miller, and sister Joella Denise Miller.

In Marian’s initial years she worked for Lockheed Martin, Rockwell International, and North American Rockwell as well as in the Oil and Gas industry, GHK, and Slawson Oil. For many years she worked as a Realtor in the Oklahoma City and Edmond areas with Abide, Prudential, and Re-max and Associates of Edmond. In Marian’s later years she worked as Deputy Chief of Staff for the Lt. Governor for eight years and followed by twelve years as a State Representative for House District 39.

Marian loved the Arts and had an “eye” for decorating. She traveled to many countries with her family and friends. She volunteered with Meals-onWheels and reading to the children at Edmond Elementary Schools. She was always up for a new adventure and loved her Lexi and a cold Dr. Pepper. Her wonderful smile will be missed by all who knew her.

You do not have to take my word for it as to what a wonderful person Marian was to so many or as to what an effective leader she was here in Edmond. Here is what some community leaders had to say on her passing: “I have known Marian Cooksey Hood for more than 16 years. I first met Marian when she ran and was elected as the State Representative for House

“Marian was one of the kindest, most caring persons I have ever known. She took her responsibilities very seriously and did “over and above” in everything she undertook.

She was quiet and reserved and only got upset when things “weren’t right” or someone was mistreated.

She tried to right wrongs and faithfully worked hard for her real estate clients.

She loved her country and her state and was so proud to serve in the state House of Representatives.

She was great fun and a great friend, and we had wonderful times traveling in Europe.

I will miss her a lot.”

Ruth Boss, Edmond business owner and civic leader “Marian Cooksey was a true public servant who did a great job representing District 39 in the Oklahoma House. Although she was proud of her work in the House, especially helping the lives of cancer patients, those suffering from Alzheimer’s and elder issues, and serving in the Republican Leadership team, what she was most proud of was her husband, Paul, her daughter, Ronnie Anne, and her grandson, Ryan. She was both honest and tough. It was an honor to serve alongside Marian in the Legislature. She will be missed.”

Clark Jolley, former State Senator

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

Check out what’s inside!

---- Obituary notices ..........................................................................Page 3.

---- Senior section ......................................................................Pages 6 & 7.

---- SF defeats North in playoff football ............................................Page 9.

---- A look back at recent general election ......................................Page 10.

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

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

---- A Thanksgiving themed movie you can skip ..............................Page 14.

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

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 19, 2020 • Page 5

Page 6 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

New Alzheimer’s drug doesn’t impress officials Government health advisers sharply criticized a closely watched Alzheimer’s drug on Friday, concluding there wasn’t enough evidence that the experimental drug slowed the brain destroying disease.

The panel of outside experts for the Food and Drug Administration agreed that a pivotal study in patients failed to show “strong evidence” that the drug worked. The experts warned of multiple “red flags” with the data, which did not initially show any benefit until an-

other analysis with later results.

Friday’s meeting follows months of skepticism about the drug, developed

by Cambridge, Massachusetts-based Biogen Inc. and Japan’s Eisai Co. “Alzheimer’s treatment is a huge, urgent, unmet need,” said panelist Dr. Joel Perlmutter, of Washington University School of Medicine. “But if we approve something with data that is not strong we have the risk of delaying good, effective treatments.”

He was one of eight panelists who voted against the drug’s evidence;

one voted that the drug showed “strong evidence” and two members said they were undecided. The panel also rejected the merits of a second study of the drug.

The FDA is not required to follow the group’s guidance but their negative opinion could weigh heavily on the agency’s decision on whether to greenlight the drug.

The FDA is expected to make a decision by March.

The Biogen drug, known as aducanumab, does not cure or reverse Alzheimer’s; the claim is that it modestly slows the rate of decline. Current drugs only temporarily ease symptoms and no new options have emerged since 2003.

Much of panel’s commentary was a rejection of the FDA’s viewpoint.

Earlier in the day, the FDA’s chief staff reviewer gave a glowing review of the drug, calling study data submitted by Biogen “exceptionally persuasive,” “strongly positive” and “robust.” But an FDA statistician noted flaws and inconsistencies in the results and potential safety issues. “”It feels like the audio and video on TV are out of sync,” said panel member Dr. Caleb Alexander of Johns Hopkins University.

The drugmakers halted two studies of their drug last year after disappointing results. But several months later the companies reversed course, announcing that a new analysis showed the drug was effective at a higher dose and that the FDA advised that it might warrant approval.

More than 5 million people in the United States and many more worldwide have Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia.

The drug is expected to be very expensive and “could bankrupt our health care system” while giving patients false hope, the consumer group Public Citizen warned in comments ahead of the meeting.

The FDA evaluation focuses on safety and effectiveness. But advocates for approval, including the Alzheimer’s Association, are pushing to make need part of the decision.

About the drug Aducanumab (pronounced “add-yoo-CAN-yoomab”) aims to help clear harmful clumps of a protein called beta-amyloid from the brain. Other experimental drugs have done that but it made no difference in patients’ ability to think, care for themselves or live independently.

It’s a biotech medicine made from living cells, and such drugs are very expensive. No price estimate has been announced for the drug, which is given through an IV once a month.

If aducanumab is approved, it’s expected to be covered by Medicare, the government plan for seniors. The FDA and Medicare are barred from considering cost when reviewing a new drug or treatment.

Even qualifying for the drug could be expensive. It’s only been tested in people with mild dementia from Alzheimer’s or a less severe condition called mild cognitive impairment. To verify a diagnosis has required brain scans that cost $5,000 or more. Insurers including Medicare don’t cover the scans because their benefits are unclear, but that could change if a scan becomes a gateway to treatment.

The evidence Historically, the FDA often required two studies showing safety and effectiveness, but in recent years has relaxed that standard.

Each of the two aducanumab studies enrolled about 1,650 people and were stopped roughly halfway through when it seemed the drug wasn’t working. Biogen says that later results show one study was positive at the highest dose; the second study was clearly negative. The company says an analysis from both studies on people who got the highest dose for the longest time shows benefit.

But there are many questions about the validity of such analyses.

Another complication: the studies were changed after they were underway to let some people get a higher

See Drug, Page 7

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 19, 2020 • Page 7

Volunteering safely during a pandemic Volunteers are vital to the survival of many charitable organizations. Without people willing to offer their time and expertise free of charge, many nonprofits would find it difficult, if not impossible, to meet their missions.

The global pandemic that begin in late 2019 and continued into 2020 changed many aspects of life as the world knew it, and that includes volunteering. Social distancing measures and stay-at-home mandates from state and local governments discouraged people from leaving their homes, while various health organizations warned aging men and women to stay home as much as possible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the risk for severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age. In recognition of that threat, many retirees who were heavily involved in volunteering prior to the pandemic were forced to cease working as volunteers, which could have a negative effect on their mental health as the pandemic continues. A report from the Mayo Clinic Health System noted that adults over age 60 experienced greater life satisfaction and greater positive changes in their perceived health as a result of volunteering.

Many people have continued to volunteer during the pandemic, and those that want to do so can take these steps to make sure their efforts to give back are as safe as possible.

• Speak with your physician first. Anyone, but especially seniors, who wants to volunteer during the pandemic should dis- Some common sense measures can keep you safe during a pandemic. cuss those aspirations with their physicians they’ve put in place to protect the health of their ing with an abundance of caution during the panprior to offering their services to charitable organi- volunteers. demic can save lives. zations. Doctors can discuss the acute and chronic • Consider virtual volunteering. Virtual volun• Monitor your own health. If you’ve signed up threats posed by the COVID-19 virus and examine teering is a safe way to give back that won’t exto volunteer, it’s vital that you monitor your own each individual’s medical history to help potential pose volunteers or others to the COVID-19 virus. health. Health officials believe the COVID-19 virus volunteers decide if working with a local charity is Charitable organizations need behind-the-scenes has spread so rapidly for a number of reasons, insafe. In addition, doctors can check patients for help just as much as they need volunteers with cluding the likelihood that many people have had COVID-19 symptoms and even have them tested their boots on the ground. Virtual volunteers can the virus but shown no symptoms. Charitable orto make sure they won’t be putting anyone in dan- ganizations will no doubt assess the health of each help with fundraising efforts and event planning, ger should they decide to volunteer. but also help charities overcome the logistical chalvolunteer when they show up to work, but volun• Contact the organization prior to volunteerlenges of operating and meeting their missions durteers also should make such assessments on their ing. Some organizations may not be allowing po- own. Check your temperature each day and familing the pandemic. tentially at-risk volunteers to perform in-person Prior to volunteering during the pandemic, iarize yourself with the symptoms of COVID-19. If tasks. Contact the organization you hope to prospective volunteers can follow numerous steps you suspect you are unwell or are even slightly work with prior to signing up to confirm your eli- under the weather, contact the charity and tell to ensure volunteering is safe, both for them and gibility, but also to discuss the safety protocols the people they’re trying to help. them you won’t be showing up that day. Operat-

Drug From Page 6 dose. And the placebo group in the positive study worsened more than the one in the negative study did, which could help explain why aducanumab appeared better by comparison in that one.

The FDA review largely dismissed safety concerns, including swelling in the brain that occurred in as many as one-third of patients, often leading to discontinuation of the drug.

The FDA should require a third study to test the drug in ideal conditions and get a clear answer, said the Mayo Clinic’s Dr. David Knopman, in an interview ahead of the meeting.

He’s on the FDA advisory panel but didn’t participate in Friday’s meeting because he helped lead one study.

He and other doctors published a journal report earlier this week arguing against approval.

Page 8 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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.)

Nov. 2 Bradley Don Zellner, 44, Mustang.

Charged with possession of CDS and a misdemeanor warrant.

Charise Anderson, 34, homeless.

Charged with failure to appear.

Christina Kay Jones, 36, Oklahoma City. Petty larceny.

Valentin Juracan Campaner, 29, of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and improper lane usage.

Kristal Lynn Shirley, 37, of Edmond.

Public intoxication.

Nov. 3 Shawn Wesley Gustafson, 29 of Claremore, Okla. Public intoxication.

Rodon Darrell Jones, 34 of Oklahoma City. Charged with no proof of insurance, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

William Joseph Blackard, 34 of Claremore, Okla. Public intoxication.

Devon Rudy Allen, 21, of Edmond.

Public intoxication.

Samuel Gitonga Imaana, 52, of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC. Demarco Montrall Williams, 31, of Hattiesburg, Miss. Felony warrant and possession of a firearm after conviction of a felony.

Kristal Lynn Shirley, 37 of Edmond.

Public intoxication.

Nov. 4 April Dawn Unger, 45 of McAlester. Possession of CDS and (Misdemeanor first and second offense) larceny from retailer under $1,000.

Nicolas Adam Smith, 36 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Nov. 5 Sonny Michael Kopp, 25 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Michael Anthony Nix, 47 of Edmond. Transporting an open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and felony DUI/APC. Angel Bonilla, 24 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Nov. 6 Mark Andrew Welch, 34 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant, driving with license canceled, suspended or

revoked. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Michael Wade Ray, 28 of Luther.

Following too closely and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Matthew Vallo Dasovich, 50 of Edmond. Expired tag over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Shawn Paul Tackitt, 40 homeless.

Public intoxication.

Alfred Leonard Smith, 42 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant, eluding police officer, obstruction of a police officer and motor vehicle theft.

Brayan Jack Diaz, 27 of Edmond.

Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Nov. 7 Alisha Louise Poole, 26, of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

William Thomas Pardee, 31, of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Austin Cole Yanez, 20 homeless.

(Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Erin Michael Firtzmorris, 38 homeless. Public intoxication.

Devante Marquee Cecil Barrios, 18 of Richardson, Texas. Petit larceny and (misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property presumption under $1,000.

Lance Lee Chadwell, 37 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant and operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Nov. 8 Marcus Demond Wells, 45 of Tulsa. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Antonio James Seward, 27 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia, and two counts possession of CDS. Janell Washington, 54 of Oklahoma City. Trespassing.

Deandre Martez Franklin, 32 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and two counts of failure to appear.

Dejore Mikhail Baldwin, of Oklahoma City. Trespassing.

Timothy Nickolas Taylor, 30 of Guthrie. False representation to an officer, non-assault resisting arrest and public intoxication.

Uriah John Peter, 33 of Naveda, Iowa. Public intoxication.

Lance Michael Johnson, 33 of Ames, Iowa. Public intoxication.

New Tech Center to feature Entrepreneurship Academy Francis Tuttle Technology Center is launching a new Entrepreneurship Academy program that will be a central focus of the new Danforth Campus.

Recruitment for the new academy is already underway. It will join the three current academies at Francis Tuttle that are open to high school sophomores through seniors – Biosciences and Medicine, Computer Science, and Engineering. All four will be located at the new Danforth Campus at 3841 E. Danforth Road in Edmond, which opens in August 2021.

“It’s the first of its kind, definitely, in the state,” Khaaliq Salim, director of the new Danforth Campus, said. “I think this is the start of something re-

A key aspect of the curriculum is that failure is considered an acceptable outcome in order that the students learn and then make improvements.

ally incredible. We’ve been at the cusp of this and didn’t have a framework in place. We’re going to help them along the way and give them the tools they need.”

The new Entrepreneurship Academy, in practice, is no different than the three current academies in the sense that students will still learn by doing. College prep and advanced placement classes in math and sci-

ence are taught alongside the central focus of developing an idea and building your own business. Students will experience the entrepreneurial process firsthand and spend class days collaborating with others to find new solutions and continuously develop their innovative ideas.

The curriculum, developed in collaboration with INCubatoredu, is specifically designed to teach students by having them build their own business. A key aspect of the curriculum is that failure is considered an acceptable outcome in order that the students learn and then make improvements.

“In school today, students are so patterned around getting A’s and not failing that it really does them a disservice,” Dr. Jaared Scott, associate

superintendent at Francis Tuttle, said.

“Failure truly is the backdoor to success. Rather than us have them avoid failure, we want them to embrace it, we want them to understand that it’s the most important part of the learning process, and we don’t want them to be devastated by failure. That’s just the next step in the evolution of finding the right solution.

Entrepreneurship Academy students will use the spaces and resources available at the Danforth Campus, such as Design Thinking Studios, a Product Realization Lab and the Francis Tuttle d.school to ideate, create, refine and present their business ideas. Through this process, those ideas could then grow into actual small businesses right out of the Danforth Campus.

“Entrepreneurship itself is a growing industry,” Salim said. “Whatever idea students come up with, they will be mentored, advised and at some point, they will present their idea in the form of a capstone project. You can have it all; go to college and explore your business idea.”

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 19, 2020 • Page 9

SF bests crosstown rival Wolves beat Edmond North, 63-24 in playoff opener

ESF RB Ethane Hyche (7) breaks for a nice gain. Santa Fe plays host again this Friday with a scheduled game against Westmoore.

EN HB Jonathan Hatton (85) catches the pass and racks up some yards after catch.

EN kicker Campbell Ambrose (16) kicks a 46 yard field goal

Photos by Melinda Infante

ESF RB Micah Snoddy (28) runs for the end zone and is stopped short

ESF OU commit Talyn Shettron shows his athleticism with this touchdown catch.

Page 10 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

A few more vote thoughts

By Steve Gust Editor Edmond Life & Leisure Last week’s column about the election got some feedback.

That’s to be expected. It was an emotional election with lots of raw feelings.

I mentioned the 138,000 magic Biden votes that appeared in Michigan.

I don’t know all the stories around those alleged votes.

The whole early Wednesday counting of presidential Steve Gust ballots seems a bit suspect to me.

But hey, let’s do the recounts and court challenges now. By Dec. 13, the elector deadline, it all should be over one way or the other. (If not before) ---I saw where President Trump became the first candidate in Oklahoma to get more than 1 million votes.

His overall performance may not be enough to return him to office. Yet I have no doubt that Trump helped to carry a bunch of other down-ballot

candidates across the finish line.

In Oklahoma County, Stephanie Bice was way behind Kendra Horn in the fifth district race after absentee and early voting. Yet the heavy voting day traffic, mostly GOP, carried her. You have to wonder if other candidates, like Tommy Johnson for sheriff, also benefited from having Trump at the top of the ticket.

The state GOP party also captured five more state house seats. It’s now 82 to 19.

That’s just Oklahoma. I’ve read where the GOP made gains in other state lawmaking bodies.

One of the significances of that is that the GOP will draw district lines and make it a bit tougher for the Democrats in upcoming Congressional elections.

---It will be interesting to see what happens with President Trump if he’s not back in the White House.

Judging from the rally over the weekend in Washington D.C., I don’t think the movement will be disbanding anytime soon.

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

Oklahoma’s voting system again works well Members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives are encouraging their colleagues from other states to model their systems after Oklahoma election laws.

“For years Oklahoma's election system has provided Oklahoma voters with rapid and undisputed results.

Through a mix of common sense quality controls, including numbered ballot pads, election night reporting, a mix of scanning technology and traditional, verifiable paper ballots, voter identification and precinct-level officials who are appointed by both of the major political parties, Oklahoma leads the nation in election policy.

We appreciated the federal court earlier this year upholding Oklahoma’s strong election laws, particularly the reasonable absentee ballot requirements the Legislature enacted through SB 210 last session.

By all accounts, the Legislature's actions proved successful and Oklahoma concluded election night with yet another fair, timely outcome that has not been disputed: This included the Congressional District 5 race, which was

decided by less than 13,000 votes.

We are witnessing firsthand how weak election policies of other states impact the entire nation, including Oklahoma. As demonstrated by Oklahoma, there is no reason we should have to wait days for the outcome of any election.

We call on the other states to immediately pass meaningful and common sense reforms to their election processes.

The integrity of the voting process is vital to our republic. There should be no doubt as to the results if we can secure the process at the outset. Mail-in ballots that do not require proof of identity is a recipe for fraud. We have gone through this process three times at the national level in recent years with the 2000, 2016 and now 2020 elections.

As members of the Oklahoma Legislature, we ask other state legislatures across America to demand reform and pass legislation similar to SB 210 on absentee ballot integrity and SB 1779 outlawing absentee ballot harvesting in our state.”

Letters Policy to EL&L We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here.

The rules, even for email 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.c om.

Why Edmond Schools went back to virtual learning Editor’s Note: The following is from EPS superintendent Bret Towne.

Dear EPS Staff and Families, As you are aware, virus transmission rates continue to rise; and earlier today (Nov. 13), Oklahoma County moved into the “Red” or high category per the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s (OKSDE) color-coded Covid-19 Alert System.

In addition, in the last few days, we have experienced a significant spike in the number of staff absences at several schools due to Covid 19 positives and quarantines, making it extremely difficult to provide adequate instruction. All across the district, employees are stretched to the breaking point, trying to cover classrooms and ensure adequate supervision of students.

Following the “Return to Learn Plan” approved in July, Edmond Public Schools has made the difficult decision to immediately transition to remote learning until November 30. We understand that moving to remote learning is disruptive for students and families.

However, we believe it is in the best interest of student and staff health to take this action at this time.

For your planning purposes, in-person school will resume for A students on Monday, Nov. 30. The first inperson learning day for students on the B schedule will be Thursday, Dec. 3. If the virus transmission rates continue their upward trajectory, the district could remain on a full remote schedule even after November 30. Should that occur, we will communicate that information via our normal delivery methods.

Your child’s teachers will be contacting you for more information about setting up Google Meets and providing instruction and support during this time. If

your child is on an IEP or 504, you should review your child’s contingency plan for school shutdown to learn what services your child will receive.

While we must cancel cafeteria meal service, families are free to pick up drive-through meals at any school. Click on this link for more information regarding meal pick up times.

With the exception of any fall sports which may be advancing to playoffs, all extracurricular and fine arts activities will be canceled until November 30.

I write this today knowing that we are all physically and mentally drained from dealing with this relentless pandemic. I know that we are all experiencing fear, anxiety, sadness, frustration, and anger to the point of Covid exhaustion and surrender. We are seeing that in the letdown of our guard and a relaxation of safety protocols. This is not the time to let down our guard.

This is the time when we need to be the most diligent in protecting ourselves against this virus.

As we move into the holiday season, when family and friends will be gathering more, I want to encourage you and your family members to follow the safety protocols that health officials have repeatedly told us will help to limit community spread of the virus. Wash your hands, wear your mask, stay socially distanced when possible, and seriously consider limiting holiday gatherings. The return to school is dependent on reducing Covid exposures.

We appreciate your patience and understanding and look forward to reopening schools on Monday, November 30.

Sincerely, Bret Towne

Vote uniformity needed

By The Oklahoman Editorial Board The 2020 presidential election highlighted the many ways that states conduct the business of distributing and tallying their ballots. A little more uniformity four years from now would be a welcome change and might bolster the public’s faith in the system.

This year saw a record amount of voting by mail, owing to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. Some states mail ballots to all registered voters. Other states, including Oklahoma, mail their absentee ballots to voters who request them, which is the better practice.

Oklahoma also sets a reasonable date by which absentee ballots must be requested — seven days before the election. Given that voting by mail figures to grow more popular, we have suggested the Legislature consider pushing that deadline back by a few days to help county election boards.

Oklahoma law mandates that ballots be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Again, that’s sensible. If only more states did the same — more than a dozen allow votes to be counted “upon receipt.” In Washington state, votes can be counted that arrive as late as Nov. 23.

Pennsylvania was at the center of this year’s election intrigue in part because its supreme court ruled that Pennsylvania's election law, which requires mailed ballots arrive by 8 p.m. on Election Day, was insufficient. The ruling moved the deadline to Nov. 6, and said ballots should be counted even if postmarks were missing or ineligible.

Every bit as maddening is the fact Pennsylvania

See Voting, Page 11

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 19, 2020 • Page 11

Jesus House seeks assistance

Voting

This Thanksgiving, Jesus House will be encouraging others to

From Page 10 embrace its mission of “inspiring generosity to feed the homeless waits until Election Day to even begin counting mailed ballots. Three other states do the same: Wisconsin, which like Pennsylvania is a swing state, Mississippi and Alabama. This year showed the folly of that practice, as Pennsylvania received about 2.8 million mailed ballots.

“If millions of early votes are going to be cast long before Election Day … then the vote count cannot proceed only on the first Tuesday after the first Monday of November,” argues Howard Husock at City Journal. He's right.

Stephen Spaulding, senior counsel for public policy and government affairs at Common Cause, said the coronavirus and myriad election-related lawsuits “lay bare an urgent need for fair, commonsense, national standards for election administration.”

Including the District of Columbia, the country has “51 different procedures” for voting and the rules “vary extensively. Your options shouldn’t depend in your ZIP code.” Among other things, Spaulding suggests there be one deadline to mail a ballot.

Wall Street Journal columnist Daniel Henninger lamented the “ludicrously early mail-in voting” allowed in many states, and said the explosion of mail-in voting driven by the pandemic “is an experiment we should never repeat.”

He won’t get that wish. However, the country would be well served to heed Husock’s advice: “As a matter of maintaining citizen faith in timely and accurate reporting of results,” he said, “states should put their heads together and align their votecount practices.”

State reveals holiday ornament The Friends of the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion (Friends of the Mansion) recently revealed the annual state holiday ornament. The 2020 ornament honors the 25th anniversary of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing when 168 Oklahomans lost their lives on April 19, 1995.

“The 2020 ornament is one of many ways we continue to tell the story of this tragic day in our state's history,” Oklahoma First Lady and Friends of the Mansion Chairperson Sarah Stitt said. “Since 1995, Oklahomans have come a long way and this year’s ornament serves as a reminder that, in the face of tragedy, our state comes together in a unique way to lift one another up.”

Friends of the Mansion had a unique opportunity during the 25th anniversary year of the Oklahoma City bombing to team up with the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum (OKC Memorial) to give Oklahomans something memorable and meaningful. This year's ornament features the Survivor Tree that stands tall at the bombing memorial and serves as an honorary commemoration.

“We’re thrilled about this opportunity to honor the anniversary of the

Oklahoma City bombing through the state’s annual holiday ornament,” OKC Memorial Executive Director Kari Watkins said. “As Oklahomans, it’s imperative that we remember and honor those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever on April 19, 1995. This ornament is a beautiful tribute to them and the state of Oklahoma as a whole.”

This year's ornament can be purchased directly from the Friends of the Mansion website, in the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum gift shop and from select retail stores around the state. Funds from the ornament go directly back to the Friends of the Mansion mission, which is to preserve and promote the Oklahoma Governor’s mansion for generations of Oklahomans to come.

To learn more about Friends of the Mansion, visit fomok.org.

Obituary notice Ver erna Jo Humes Verna Jo Humes, age 80, off Edmond, Oklahoma passed away quietly on the morning of November 1st, 2020, from complications attributed to the COVID-19 virus. Veerna was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Marjorie Bauder, sister Barbara Mirise, brother Daavvid, daughter in laaw Sonya Humes and grandson Matthew Rowland. She is survived by her brother Jim Bauder and his wife Lynne y and her brother in laaw, Daavid v Mirise.

She will be dearly missed by her loving husband Ed of 59 years, her daughter Dianna and husband Mark Rowland of Oklahoma City, and their children Michael and Jeremy; son Thomas and his daughters Peggy and Anna of Edmond, and her daughter Kathryn and husband Sid Beatty of Knoxville, TN, and their daughter Sara Bryant.

Veerna was born on July 8, 1940 in Columbus, Ohio in a small farming community where everyone knew everyone. Veerna’s education began at Olentangy High School where she graduated in 1958. She continued her studies in the nursing program at Grant Hospital School of Nursing in Columbus. After finishing her R.N. certification, Veerna practiced nursing in both Ohio and Texas. Ver e na married the love of her life, Ed Humes, in July of 1961. Their life together included multiple adventures as Ed’s first occupation was in the United States Air Force, which required them to move frequently. Their family began with the birth of Dianna Sue, followed by Thomas Edward, and finally Kathryn Lyynn. Ed and Ver e na’s final move to Edmond in 1978, allowed the family to put down permanent roots in the local community. When Ed retired from the Air Force in 1989, and he and Ver e na established Ed Humes Locksmith Service in Edmond.

Throughout her lifetime Veerna fulfilled multiple roles while also maintaining her love of sewing, gardening, cooking,, baking, and plaaying y bridge. One Christmas, her love for baking lead her to make 70 dozen cinnamon rolls for friends, business associates, and family. People were known to fight over her cinnamon rolls! Verna’s talents extended to the Locksmith business, where she worked as the office managerr. And when the kids were young, Ver e na served as Girl Scout troop leader and room mother. She and Ed also worked as youth group leaders for the Oil Country Cloggers. Her love for sewing came thru as she made the majority of the costumes used for the clogging performances. Their partnership led the Oil Country Cloggers to be one of the first groups to actively trravel and perform outside the United States; as the group performed in Denmark and the USSR while it was still under communist rule. When Verna wasn’t spending her time cooking, sewing, cleaning, or telling Ed what to do, she volunteered her time with the Hope Center in Edmond.

Ver e na was an active believer in Christ, and she and Ed maintained a membership with Edmond First United Methodist Church and the Emmanuel Sunda ndaay School Class.

A memorial service will be held to remember and honor Verna at Edmond First United Methodist Church on Fridaay, December 4th 2020 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations maay be sent in Veerna’s name to the following: Verna Humes Memorial Fund, First United Methodist Church, Edmond, P.O. Box 390, Edmond, Oklahoma 73083 “If you didn’t want to know her thoughts on a subject, don’t ask her.”

To place an obituary please call 340-3311

and provide hope for those suffering from addiction.” The Oklahoma City-based non-profit is seeking donations for Thanksgiving food baskets for needy Oklahomans.

“Our Thanksgiving food baskets will be filled with the necessary items to cook and serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal for a family,” said Mike Bateman, Jesus House executive director. “We’re in need of generosity from the Oklahoma City community this holiday season to help us provide these donations to our low-income neighbors. Each year, these food baskets are handed out as part of our outreach program and help make a Thanksgiving dinner possible for families who share our community.

“Last year, we were able to distribute 2,007 food baskets that fed about 8,028 people,” Bateman said. “We’re hoping this year to give away 2,500 food baskets to those low-income families in our neighborhood. The grace of God and the love and generosity of the Oklahoma City community helps make sure everyone can have a special holiday.”

Jesus House also fed 326 additional needy Oklahomans at its Community Thanksgiving Meal at its facility last yearFor more information, contact Alfreda Doonkeen at (405) 232-7164 or visit Jesus House online at www.jesushouseokc.org.

Heritage Hall scholarship awarded The Heritage Hall Alumni Association (HHAA) has recognized Anoushka Mullasseril (Heritage Hall Class of 2015) as its first Heritage Hall Alumni Scholarship recipient. Established earlier this year, the scholarship honors an alumnus/a who has been in higher education for at least one semester and who exemplifies the tenets Mullasseril of the Charger Code – to learn, to lead, to serve. Award recipients receive $1,000, in addition to a $250 donation to the charity of his/her choice.

A Charger since the age of 3, Mullasseril has lived by the Charger Code for most of her life. Believing that “a physician must live by these ideals,” Mullasseril is taking The Code’s tenets to an even higher level as a medical student at The University of Oklahoma.

“In oncology (my chosen field of

specialization), new discoveries about how cancer works and how to treat it are being made every day. Because medicine is always changing, physicians must be lifelong learners to provide patients with the best care.

Additionally, doctors must be leaders in the community; this has been illustrated numerous times throughout the pandemic as doctors have strived to educate people about the virus and set good examples by adhering to COVID guidelines. Service is especially important in medicine because physicians must dedicate themselves to serving their patients and others in need,” observed Mullasseril.

Commenting on Mullasseril’s win, HHAA President Cooper Cloud ’11 said, “Anoushka was selected due to her extraordinary amount of service and impeccable record of academic achievement as an undergrad at Rhodes College, and now as a medical student at OU. We are proud to have such a deserving member of the Charger family as the organization’s first scholarship recipient.”

Page 12 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 19, 2020 • Page 13

Treasured out of state animal refuge

By Elaine Warner I’m a big fan of zoos and organizations that promote conservation and education about the amazing animal life on our planet.

Animal attractions are highly popular with travelers but not all of them are equal. Our star Oklahoma attractions are the Oklahoma City Zoo, the Tulsa Zoo Elaine and the Oklahoma Aquarium.

Money spent in these places is well-spent – the animals are treated responsibly and humanely and guests get their money’s worth. These are great for day trips. For an overnight adventure, however, I highly recommend trips to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Texas.

About 50 miles southwest of the DFW Metroplex – in the dark it felt like the middle of nowhere – we found the Lodge Gate at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. This is where overnight guests check in.

We were staying in one of the compact Safari Camp cabins overlooking a watering hole.

Looking out the door in the early morning, I could see some of the fallow deer, whose native range is through Europe and Turkey, grazing nearby. Breakfast is served in a glass-walled pavilion even closer to the small pond where a lone sandhill crane had dropped in for a morning drink.

Following breakfast, we met volunteers Bill and Eileen Wissore who were in charge of our Morning Safari Tour. The Wissores have been volunteering at Fossil Rim for eight years and they really knew their stuff.

Currently only single group guided tours are available. The most practical way for guests to enjoy Fossil Rim is by doing your own drivethrough – social distancing in the comfort of your car. Purchase tickets in advance – they’ll be scanned when you arrive and you’re good to go.

The main route – the 7.2-mile Gosdin Scenic Drive – will take you through a number of pastures. Each car is given a cup of animal feed and a species identification guide – and instructions on safe practices. With 1,800 acres for animals to roam, they don’t guarantee you’ll see every animal in the guide – but you will see lots of animals. Fossil Rim is a home to about 1100 animals of 56 species.

Sixteen of the species are endangered or threatened; some are extinct in the wild.

Most of the species are from North America or

Hartmann’s mountain zebras, whose native habitat includes arid African mountainous areas, are part of the Species Survival Plan program.

Africa – mostly hoofed. There are also ostriches, emus and casual visitors like wild turkeys, raccoons, armadillos and sandhill cranes.

What you won’t see currently is the Intensive Management Area, home to animals requiring extra protection including Atwater’s prairie chickens, Mexican Gray, Maned and Red wolves, and several other species. Fossil Rim participates in a number of Species Survival Plans and was the first non-zoo facility to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Halfway through the drive is a rest stop – the Overlook. Because of COVID, the café is only serving take-out and there are some restrictions on visitors to the gift shop. Indoor bathrooms are closed but porta-potties are available.

The drive through Fossil Rim typically takes a couple of hours. Even with restrictions, this is an amazing facility to visit. Education, conservation and preservation are the main goals – entertainment is a plus. This place is good for the planet and good for visitors.

In the rolling Ozark hills south of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is home and haven to approximately 100 animals – primarily big cats – rescued from unimaginable situations. When I went there the first time, it was to research the tourism value of the place. But I found much more than just a look at the animals – I got an education on good animal care practices. Not

See Refuge, Page 15

Page 14 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

‘Friendsgiving’ is a holiday dud

No need to be thankful for this movie

By George Gust Thanksgiving is such a common holiday experience, you’d think there would be a bevy of Thanksgiving movies the way there are countless Christmas movies.

But when you do a search for Thanksgiving movies the cupboard is mostly bare. “Friendsgiving” aims to fill the turkey day void by capturing the uniquely 21st century November tradition of gathering your friends at Thanksgiving when you can’t (or don’t want to) get together with your family.

Both coming off devastating heartbreaks, lifelong friends Molly (Malin Akerman) and Abbey (Kat Dennings), along with their crew of close friends and acquaintances, host a dysfunctional, comical, and chaotic Thanksgiving dinner.

We’ve all been there before, you’re at a Thanksgiving gathering with a bunch of new people, maybe you’re at your significant other’s family’s house. There’s an awkwardness to the situation where there are relationships and histories between these people you can’t unpack in the 15 minutes you met them earlier in the day. Most times things get better from there, but in the case

of “Friendsgiving” you spend the running time of the movie living in the awkward “what am I doing here?” feeling.

“Friendsgiving” can barely be categorized as a movie. There are plenty of familiar comedic actresses to be seen, but the entire experience is simply a group of Hollywood friends hanging out in their mansion on Thanksgiving. The idea of dinner is the setup, but often the movie plods along between one painfully unfunny improvised scene to another without any bearing on any kind of story. None of the characters are likable or even relatable, as they try so hard to nail the lowest

common denominator jokes. Every time you think you know what story or message “Friendsgiving” is going to portray they are like Lucy pulling the football away from Charlie Brown.

Overall, “Friendsgiving” is painfully unfunny and awkward to watch. “Friendsgiving” is a poster movie; you see the poster full of accomplished comedic actresses and you think, “Wow I recognize these people, this must be worth a watch!” but when you watch it the stars on the poster are only in the movie for a cameo. The only value that someone could get out of this movie is if merely the suggestion of gross out raunchy humor is your brand of comedy. Please save your video rental money and stay away from this hour and a half of nonsense.

“Friendsgiving” is rated R for crude sexual content and language throughout, and for drug use.

Now available on demand.

0.4 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

Malin Akerman and Kat Dennings star in the L.A. based Thanksgiving themed hangout movie ‘Friendsgiving.’

Answers appearing on Page 19

Dillingham honored

by Hall of Fame Oklahoma native fiddler Kyle Dillingham was honored as the Ambassador of Goodwill at the 93rd induction ceremony for the Oklahoma Hall of Fame on Thursday, November 12. Dillingham was also invited to perform for the honorees.

Dillingham was overwhelmed and humbled by this prestigious honor as he is very proud and thankful to be an Oklahoman.

“This honor is so special and important to me because it recognizes my lifelong decision to base my career in Oklahoma," said Dillingham. "This is my home, and I am proud to have so far represented my home state now in over 40 countries with my music. The Oklahoma Hall of Fame (OHOF) bestows upon its inductees the state's highest honor. So when I found out that they wanted to officially honor me as an Ambassador of Goodwill at their 93rd Induction Ceremony and to have me as their feature entertainment, I was overwhelmed with emotion.”

Previously honored Ambassadors of Goodwill include Toby Keith, Kristin Chenoweth, Katrina Elam, Roger Miller, Reba McEntire, Jimmy Webb, and Hank Thompson to name a few.

The Oklahoma Hall of Fame was founded in 1927.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD

62. Filling station filler 63. More of the same 64. Water carrier

THEME: Doctor’s Orders ACROSS 1. "Back to the Future" antagonist 5. Government Printing Office 8. Frugal driver's acronym 11. 1952 Olympics site 12. Afghanistan's neighbor 13. Letter-shaped girder 15. Wing-shaped 16. Narcotics agent, for short 17. Call it quits 18. *One way to improve health 20. She played a TV genie 21. Cunning 22. Golfer's goal 23. "Kiss the Cook" garment, pl.

26. Keyboard instrument 30. Prefix for before 31. Greek god's libation 34. Door-stopping wedge 35. Full of meaning 37. Fleur-de___ 38. Do penance 39. Type of parrot 40. *Ask for procaine when at this office 42. *Unavoidable risk factor for many diseases 43. Rock grinding 45. *Take a spoonful of sugar to avoid this taste 47. Genetic info carrier 48. Aqua-lung 50. Criticism 52. *Annual ____ 55. Fill with spirits 56. First rate 57. Purl partner 59. Vandalized a car 60. Coconut fiber 61. Bulgarian money

DOWN 1. Feathery scarf 2. ____ of Man 3. Linseed 4. Do without 5. Last Supper cup 6. Break down or analyze 7. Fairy-tale beginning 8. Internet share-able 9. Stepping stone to gain 10. Greenwich time 12. *Use a scalpel 13. Like the Vitruvian Man 14. *Stay in bed 19. *Take antihistamines to avoid this kind of nose 22. A pop 23. *Eat one a day?

24. Rap sheet listing 25. So out it's in 26. *Worn until a bone heals 27. Piglet

28. Lightly color 29. Different spelling of emir 32. Horsefly 33. "Wizard of Oz" man 36. *Increase fluid intake 38. Elsewhere, in a courtroom 40. *____ test 41. Maltreater 44. Tattooed 46. Gridiron position 48. Record a movie 49. Diogenes, e.g.

50. ____ market 51. Big name in chips 52. Show worry 53. All over again 54. In real-time 55. *It checks your heart health 58. Road crew supply

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 19, 2020 • Page 15

Refuge From Page 13 to get too heavy, but Turpentine Creek helps guests understand the lack of regulation of wild animal ownership and the harm done to vulnerable animals through misguided interest or, more often, outright greed.

A visit is a positive and enjoyable experience – the care and conditions for the animals here is optimal. These are animals which could never be released into the wild. Many have endured tragic, often cruel, treatment.

Scheduled tours are led by knowledgeable staff members who provide information about the different species and their needs and often describe individual animal histories.

Tigers make up the largest percentage of the population. There are no petting opportunities – and after hearing about the fates of cute, cuddly-looking little cubs after they get bigger, you won’t ever want to pet one again.

A great way to enjoy a visit here is by arranging an overnight stay. Turpentine Creek offers a number of types of accommodations from the family-friendly Tree House Bungalow, Glamping Tents, family suites overlooking the natural habitat areas, RV and tent sites and, my favorite, Zulu Safari Lodges.

These five cabins are situated on a deck centered by a fire pit and a handy hot tub. Jack and I were the only guests the night we stayed there. Before bed, we sat in the hot tub and looked at the stars. I hoped to hear lions caroling, but, like in the song, the lions must have been sleep-

ing that night. We’d learned earlier in the day that tigers don’t roar; they chuff. No chuffing heard either. But what a delightful spot to spend the night!

Extreme care is being taken during this period, there are mask rules and careful cleaning procedures are used in the accommodations.

Like Fossil Rim, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is accredited by the AZA. Turpentine Creek is also – as a legitimate sanctuary – accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS). Animals here are never used for breeding or selling – they live their lives out in safety and comfort. Unfortunately laws and regulations are so lax, there are many other animals in the U.S. living in unacceptable conditions. Currently, there is a bill in Congress to address public and animal safety, illegal trade practices, the impact on conservation and to insure ethical treatment of big cats. Check out this link -www.tcwr.org/advocacy -- for details about the Big Cat Public Safety Act. And contact legislators to encourage their support for the bill (H.R. 1818/S.2990). The bill, first proposed in 2018, must be passed before January 3, 2021.

In my opinion – and that’s what you get in this column – these two facilities represent the gold standard in animal conservation and protection. They’re tourist attractions with benefits. And we all benefit by supporting them.

Page 16 • November 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Organizers began planning inaugural ‘Cycle 66’ event The inaugural Cycle 66, a first-of-its kind urban and rural bicycling tour and festival along historic Route 66, is set for November 2021, with diverse cycling routes showcasing the Mother Road’s unique Americana via starting and finishing lines in vibrant downtown Edmond.

The Nov. 7, 2021 tour and festival is a charitable event that will further raise the area’s profile as a recreation destination while highlighting one of America’s most famous roads.

“Oklahoma’s love of cycling, Route 66 and family fun all comes together with Cycle 66,” said Cycle 66 founder Mike Osburn, an Edmond businessman and civic booster. “Whether you’re a competitive cyclist, started biking as a pandemic distraction, or just like fun and food, Cycle 66 is for you. We are thrilled Edmond is getting in on the action of Route 66, a national attraction we are privileged to have as a part of our community.”

Organizers unveiled Cycle 66 on Wednesday, the 94-year anniversary of Route 66’s establishment in 1926. Routes will be revealed at a registration event and “Get Your Kicks Party” in downtown Edmond on May 16, 2021. Cycle 66’s title sponsor is OU Health.

“Cycle 66 offers cyclists three distances to enjoy and the rest of us a chance to cheer them on at a family-friendly festival showcasing all downtown Edmond has to offer,” said Jennifer Seaton, director of Visit Edmond. “Hosting events like Cycle 66 will motivate visitors to spend the weekend in Edmond to dine, shop and play.”

Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell, the state’s secretary of tourism and branding, predicted Cycle 66 will

be a major addition to the ongoing Route 66 renaissance in Oklahoma, home to the longest drivable stretch of the road - more than 400 miles - in the country.

“Oklahoma is leading the nation in Route 66 tourism as the Mother Road approaches its 100th anniversary, and dynamic events like Cycle 66 are one reason why,” Pinnell said. “Cycle 66 promotes active lifestyles and family fun while honoring the nostalgia and legacy of this iconic highway, its deep connection to the culture of Edmond and central Oklahoma, and Oklahoma’s effort to reimagine this national treasure for a new generation.”

Pinnell, an avid cyclist, added: “Cycle 66 is a dream for people like me who love cycling, cherish Route 66 and believe in Oklahoma’s potential as a recreation and tourism destination. I can’t wait to join Oklahomans on the Cycle 66 course for the first year of what I expect will become a tradition for years to come.” Visit cycle66ok.com and follow #cycle66 and @cycle66OK on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates and more ahead of the route reveal and registration at the “Get Your Kicks Party” in downtown Edmond on May 16, 2021.

Museum’s new exhibition Opening now at OKCMOA, “Beaux Arts at 75” celebrates the interconnected history of the Museum’s Beaux Arts collection and the Beaux Arts Ball, an annual fundraiser organized by the Beaux Arts Society. In honor of the 75th anniversary of both OKCMOA and the Beaux Arts Ball, the Museum will present its entire Beaux Arts collection in a series of exhibitions and permanent collection installations highlighted by “Beaux Arts at 75.”

“I am extremely grateful to the Beaux Arts Society for their continued generosity,” added Dr. Michael Anderson, OKCMOA president and CEO. “Beginning with a Rembrandt etching from a Sears’ department store in Sequoyah, Oklahoma in 1965, OKCMOA – and our predecessor, the Oklahoma Arts Center – acquired many of our collection highlights through funds contributed by the Beaux Arts Society. ‘ Beaux Arts at 75’ celebrates the adventurous spirit that helped build this one-of-a-kind collection.”

In this original exhibition, the Museum will present long-standing favorites next to rarely seen gems, introducing an always surprising collection that includes outstanding works by: America’s famed Ashcan School artists, such as Robert Henri and John Sloan American Impressionists including Childe Hassam Key later-generation Surrealists and Magical Realists

Postmodernists including Annette Lemieux and Fritz Scholder Leading figures of Pop Art and American abstraction such as James Rosenquist and Oklahoma City’s own Joe Goode.

The Beaux Arts Ball, first held in 1945, began as a costumed fundraiser.

The idea was conceived by Eleanor Blake Kirkpatrick, a philanthropist and friend of the Oklahoma Art Center’s first director, Nan Sheets. The event raised almost $2,500 to pay for the Oklahoma Art Center’s first year of operating expenses.

Since 1965, the Beaux Arts Society has contributed more than $1 million for art acquisitions at the Oklahoma Art Center and its successor, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. The Beaux Arts Collection at OKCMOA is comprised of 36 eclectic works, 21 of which will be featured in “Beaux Arts at 75.”

An additional 7 works are on view in the Museum’s permanent collection galleries. The remaining 8 works will be on view beginning Feb. 20 as part of a new exhibition “Moving Vision: Op and Kinetic Art from the Sixties and Seventies.”

The Museum is currently operating with limited capacity and is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m. Timed entry tickets for “Beaux Arts at 75” are available every 15 minutes and are on sale now. Children receive free admission to this exhibition.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 19, 2020 • Page 17

Top spot goes to Paycom The spectacular growth of Oklahoma Citybased Paycom Software Inc. (NYSE: PAYC) — ranked No. 1 on the 2020 Oklahoma Inc. list of Oklahoma public companies — can be measured in some ways that fit neatly in a spreadsheet.

And in other ways that are more easily seen in its impact on the community.

For instance, in the July 2019 to June 2020 period encompassed by Oklahoma Inc., Paycom produced a one-year return to shareholders of 36.6%, revenue growth of 21.4% and earnings per share change of 12.9%.

All of those growth indicators were at or near the top percentage gains among all Oklahoma public companies.

“Our results were driven by strong demand for our solutions in a large and expanding human capital management market,” said Chad Richison, Paycom’s founder and CEO. “We added a record number of new clients and increased our annual revenue retention rate to 93% at the end of 2019, all while our value proposition continued to resonate with more and more businesses and their employees.”

Founded in 1998 as one of the nation’s first web-based HR and payroll technology companies, Paycom has consistently developed its own proprietary technology to solve challenges of a critical business segment known as human capital management.

Today, Paycom claims 26,000-plus clients across the United States. At the end of 2019 it employed 3,765 people in Oklahoma City and satellite locations around the country.

From Oklahoman.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

The EEDA presented Pepperoni Grill with a commemorative arrow for being a recent featured business in The Arrow.

Pepperoni Grill in the spotlight The Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) recently featured Pepperoni Grill in the EEDA's newsletter, The Arrow. The Arrow is a monthly newsletter emailed to approximately 2,000 subscribers. Featured businesses also receive a commemorative arrow to recognize their participation.

"The featured business portion of The Arrow was created as an outlet for the EEDA to further support and promote the Edmond business community," said Janet Yowell, EEDA executive director. "We were pleased to share Pepperoni Grill's story with the readers of The Arrow."

Pepperoni Grill is a locally-owned restaurant and bar located at 1000 W. Covell Rd. The restaurant offers a variety of menu items, including handtossed pizzas, Akashi Wagyu beef burgers, fresh

UCO leader named to committee University of Central Oklahoma President Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar was recently named to the executive committee of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU).

The Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU) is an international organization of universities in large metropolitan areas that share common understandings of their institutional missions and values and commitments to improving their surrounding communities.

Members of the executive committee are presidents and chancellors of CUMU member institutions. They are elected to serve two-year terms in their respective positions.

"President Neuhold-Ravikumar is a champion for progress and improvement and has been instrumental in developing partnerships with businesses to expand opportunities for students and members of UCO's metropolitan home community," said Bobbie Laur, executive director of CUMU. "UCO has been a long time, active member of CUMU, and I look for-

President Neuhold-Ravikumar ward to working with her to expand that relationship for the good of CUMU and UCO." The executive committee members are nominated and elected by peers from CUMU member institutions.

Each has demonstrated their commitment to the CUMU mission of promoting and enhancing urban and metropolitan universities.

Trump administration rushing leasing operations in Alaska The Trump administration is advancing plans to auction drilling rights in the U.S. Arctic National Wildlife Refuge before the possible inauguration of former Vice President Joe Biden, who has vowed to block oil exploration in the rugged Alaska wilderness.

The Interior Department is set to issue a formal “call for nominations” as soon as this week, kick-starting a final effort to get input on what tracts to auction inside the refuge’s 1.56-million-acre coastal plain. The plans were described by two people familiar with the matter who asked not to be named detailing administration strategy.

Biden has pledged to permanently protect the refuge, saying drilling there would be a “big disaster.” But those ef-

forts could be complicated if the Trump administration sells drilling rights first.

Formally issued oil and gas leases on federal land are government contracts that can’t be easily yanked.

The U.S. Geological Survey has estimated the refuge’s coastal plain might hold between 4.3 billion and 11.8 billion barrels of technically recoverable crude. Yet it’s unclear how many oil companies would have the appetite to mount costly operations in the remote Arctic wilderness amid low crude prices, steep public opposition, and regulatory uncertainty.

Major U.S. banks have sworn off financing Arctic drilling projects, and conservationists are also pressuring oil executives to rule out work in the region.

grilled hand cut salmon and much more.

"Our owner knew the Pepperoni Grill concept would be a great addition to Edmond," said Tara Blackwell, director of operations for the Pepperoni Grill managing company, Quail Springs Culinary.

"We love being a part of the Edmond community."

To read the full feature on Pepperoni Grill in The Arrow, visit www.eeda.com/archives. To subscribe to The Arrow, visit www.eeda.com/newsletter.

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 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

The time to get in shape & stay fit is now

By Brian Attebery The first of the year is traditionally when many people start working out and eating better. Many of us have been off anything traditional this year so why wait? Now more than ever, staying fit and healthy is about our health and not just vanity.

What we do with our bodies Attebery and what kind of nutrition and supplements we put in our body can not only protect us from illness but they also protect us from obesity, which is the No. 2 cause of preventable disease in the U.S. Do not forget about the challenges we all face every year throughout our lives with obesity. In addition, exercise is the safest, most-effective natural way of dealing with stress and anxiety. Do not underestimate the importance of moderate exercise and what it can do for you way beyond just vanity. You must build into it slow to be safe.

Time management is No. 1 when it comes to exercise and nutrition. Morning workouts are typically less likely to be missed unless you simply don’t get out of bed. There are not any 5 a.m. office meetings and soccer practices are typically in the evening too. Traffic is light in the early morning hours and it is easier to get around town. Roll out of bed, hydrate with some water and grab your coffee or tea on the way to the gym. Eating a light protein snack may be a good idea too. Grab a hard-boiled egg or a low-carb protein shake as you head out the door.

You get your workouts done now but what about time for good nutrition? Meal replacement shakes are what I like to call, “healthy fast foods.”

There are so many options out there and we even put a nutrition club in our facility because we know it would help our customers and people in the area stay consistent with these healthier options. Canned chicken, fish, pre-made salad kits and whole grain breads and crackers are easy to stock up on as well. You just need to plan a little ahead of time and buy the items that you know will help you succeed. If you wait until you are starving and have no healthy options, you will

mess up. Your nutrition is not only vital to see weight loss but it is also vital for recovery of muscles, joints, skin and hair. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of men and women. Low-fat, high-fiber diets with plenty of lean proteins, veggies, healthy fat and grains plus some fruits will help you maximize your heart health.

Cardiovascular exercise is very important but you are limited to the metabolic boost it provides while you are doing the activity and for a few hours later only. When you build muscle tone from weight lifting, not only do you look more shapely and symmetrical, but you build your metabolism up during the activity AND it stays elevated all day long and throughout the week as long as you maintain the muscle you built. I like to teach my clients that muscles are like a car. A sports car is knows as a “muscle car” due to the powerful, strong engine that makes it go FAST! Our muscles are what make us strong and go faster too. Bigger, stronger engines also burn fuel more and faster. In other words, our metabolism speeds up and we

burn calories/fat/fuel faster all the time! In addition, it is not about how “long” you lift weights but the intensity of the session. Most of our personal training clients only train for 30 minute weight training sessions but we are moving the entire workout and challenging them. This is not only more affective for the bodies but also gives them more time to do the much needed cardiovascular exercise after. They may be in and out in one hour but have accomplished a lot!

Getting into shape takes time. You need to approach it as a lifestyle. That means it will have its ups and downs. You will have good and better weeks because it is never “bad” to maintain when attempting to be fit. It is reality that you will hit plateaus but just don’t stop! If you have in the past, welcome to being a human. Now, let’s get going again.

(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer.

He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)

A book that helps to empower parents

By John Goetz Ed. Family Counseling In past articles I have mentioned a book, Parent Power by Dr. Logan Wright. Logan was the president of the American Psychological Association at the time he wrote Parent Power and he summarized or condensed what we Goetz knew at that time empirically regarding parenting. I am going to apply some of this information to young adults as they transition from parents guiding them to guiding themselves through life.

The first chapter in the book is titled “Who’s in Charge Here,” for parents that means you. Power abhors a vacuum and if parents don’t take charge of the family then children or chaos will. As a young adult you can begin to take charge of your life or someone or something such as “social media” can take charge of your life, or you can have chaos. A healthy adult knows who they are, what they value, what they prioritize, and what their boundaries are. If you are not sure what you value look at your average month and see where you spend your time. Time is our most valuable possession. How you spend your time speaks volumes. Adults seek input from people they trust but they decide for themselves what direction they want to take in their life.

The second chapter is “Focus on Behavior.” With people in general listen to their words, but trust their behavior. What you do is who you are. People love to talk/complain about things but this changes nothing. Only action can make the dreams you dream become the reality you live.

Learning to set goals and identifying the action steps you need to engage in, and then acting on them is an essential skill for young adults. Focusing on behavior is also helpful in evaluating yourself as an individual. When people confront you or call you out ask yourself is there any truth to what they are saying. If there is truth to their confrontations you may want to review your behavior and make changes. If you can confidently say I do not act that way, then their confrontation is likely unfounded.

The third chapter is “Reward Virtue”. If you want your children to be honest with you then you need to reward/reinforce honesty. As an adult you can set goals for yourself and reward yourself for meeting them. Time spent exercising, learning to cook, or keeping a budget can be rewarding in itself. Our time and attention is our most valuable asset and the list for virtuous behavior is endless.

Of course you can also reward yourself with tangible goods like a good dinner or new shoes.

The next several chapters deal with extinction and punishment. Extinction is simply, “behavior that consistently goes unrewarded will disappear”.

Punishment is a negative consequence connected to a behavior. If you drive faster than the speed limit you may be fined. If you drink too much you

may feel ill the next day. Punishment and extinction together might look like credit card debt. A person who carries a balance on their credit card is punished by paying interest. This individual then achieves the goal of paying off their credit card and cuts it up; this is extinction.

This book continues with information on modeling. What you do speaks louder than what you say. There are also chapters on communication.

When you say communication, think listening.

Even the chapters on enabling children applies to all ages. Taking responsibility for your actions makes you a more attractive adult. One might sum up what I am saying is, being an adult is having your own internal parent. The book is an easy read and can be found at the library or used book store.

You might even share it with your parents.

(John Goetz M. Ed LPC-S, is the Clinical Director of Edmond Family Counseling and Staff Therapist).

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

Drug & alcohol treatment center

Top accreditation goes to Arcadia Trails Arcadia Trails, Oklahoma’s newest and most advanced residential drug and alcohol treatment center, was recently accredited by CARF International (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) for a period of three years.

This achievement represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows Arcadia Trail’s substantial adherence to the CARF standards. “We are excited to earn this accreditation,� says Avilla Williams, the Vice President of Clinical Services for INTEGRIS Health. “This achievement will allow us to expand our ability to care for more patients.�

An organization receiving a three-year accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process and has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit that its programs and services are measurable, accountable and of the highest quality.

Patients face a variety of options when deciding what services to use and who should provide them.

Accreditation is a sign of quality and is an important consideration in their decision making. Patients should look for CARF accreditation in their choice of addiction treatment.

CARF is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is to promote quality, value and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process that centers on enhancing the lives of the persons served.

Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and now known as CARF, the accrediting body establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and service.

Edmond’s Arcadia Trails

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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 19, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure