December 20, 2018 by Edmond Life and Leisure

December 20, 2018 Vol. 19, No. 30

In This Issue ROUGH CUT SWISS

Rough Cut Swiss, in real life, is located in front of Othello’s Restaurant at the southwest corner of Main and Broadway, but this week it 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.

More Christmas related articles See Pages 12 & 13

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21 Sunny High 57° Low 38°

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22 Mostly sunny High 56° Low 33°

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23 Partly cloudy High 51° Low 35°

This year your friends at Edmond Life & Leisure newspaper wish you and your family a Merry Christmas. We will be with family and friends on Monday, Dec. 24 and Tuesday Dec. 25. Therefore our office at 107 S. Broadway will be closed. Please note we will still have a published edition for Dec. 27 and will return to the office on Wednesday Dec. 26. Again, if you are looking for a last minute Christmas gift we urge you to support local Edmond businesses including many who advertise with Edmond Life & Leisure. Have a safe and blessed Christmas this year. The following are some fun facts about Christmas shopping: n Economists with the National Retail Federation say online and retail sales in 2017 increased by 10.5 percent over the previous year. The combination of job and wage gains, modest inflation, and elevated consumer confidence has led to higher

holiday spending. n Between Thanksgiving Day and Cyber Monday 2017, more than 174 million Americans shopped in stores and online, offers the NRF. Black Friday still reigns supreme, with 77 million consumers. However, Small Business Saturday was not far behind, with 55 million consumers. n Data from Prosper Insights & Analytics says people planned to spend an average of $967.13 in 2017 on the holiday season. That was up 3.4 percent from the year prior. n Tracking of spending on video games by The NPD Group reflects a growth of 15 percent when compared to a year ago. All categories have shown gains, including software, hardware, accessories, and game cards. Fortnite has been a significant software sales driver for 2018, ratcheting up legions of fans seemingly overnight. n Many people pride themselves

on shopping early for gifts, but there are eleventh-hour consumers as well. NRF says around 15 percent of last-minute shoppers plan to buy gifts at supermarkets or grocery stores. n Charitable giving tends to skyrocket at the end of the year, when the spirit of giving synonymous with the season inspires individuals to give back. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers, the average total cash contribution to charity by individuals is roughly $245. n The NRF notes that, in 2017, only about 12 percent of consumers finished their holiday shopping by the second week of December. n Research from Forbes found that gift cards will continue to reign supreme. Gift cards are convenient for gift-givers, and PWC found that 42 percent of people prefer to receive gift cards for the holidays.

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Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 3

PHOTO PROVIDED/KRISTY PAYNE

Third grade girls from Russell Dougherty learned about the spirit of giving recently. They channeled their efforts through the Fostering Sweet Dreams Foundation, which helps foster children. It was founded by Edmond resident Kristy Payne.

Fostering Sweet Dreams Foundation

Russell Dougherty kids help out foster children

By Mallery Nagle About 1,500 Oklahoma children in foster care will have visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads this Christmas, thanks to the Fostering Sweet Dreams Foundation. Founder and director Kristy Payne started the organization about three years ago. The Edmond mother of four is a Realtor by day, but plays the Sandman by night, so to speak. She and her husband fostered children for 13 years, adopting two. The couple also has two biological children. Once her children were grown, she still wanted to help, she explained. Through her experience in the foster care system, Payne knew that foster families are not reimbursed for necessities such as beds and bedding, dressers or car seats. This, she noted, can cause a serious financial burden on families and even prevent some people from being able to accept a child into their home. “Children need a safe place to sleep,” she said. The foundation serves families with kinship relations to the child they are caring for. This, Payne said, can be grandparents, aunts and uncles or even a teacher, anyone with a prior relationship to the child. Payne further explained keeping children in a kinship home is the Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ first choice. According to Payne, kinship foster parents can be approved in as little as 24 hours. They must, however, complete the training necessary to become foster parents. This process can take six months; all the while there is no reimbursement for any expenses from the state. “It costs about $350, on the inexpensive side, to provide a bed, a dresser and a car seat,” she said. “We can help with those items.” Fostering Sweet Dreams can also assist during the family reunification process. “Those parents have done a lot of hard work (to get their children back). We are able to help them, too,” she said. A new constituency for the foundation is victims of domestic abuse. “They’ve left with nothing but their kids,” Payne said. She has partnered with the YWCA to help furnish apartments for these families. Yet another need is in unexpected traditional foster care, Payne said. She explained that a foster family may be caring for a sibling set when the biological parents have another baby. “It happens all the time,” she noted. The foster family almost always accepts the new baby, but has no crib. Enter Fostering Sweet Dreams. Most referrals come from the DHS or from other social welfare organizations. The majority of the foundation’s funding comes from private donations. But Payne and her volunteer staff of seven have gotten creative

when it comes to “feathering their bed.” They have held rummage sales, written grants, and have recently partnered with Kendra Scott Gives Back. Through this program, the jeweler allows a nonprofit agency to host a sale of its merchandise with 20 percent of the proceeds going to the NPO. Of course, Christmas letters have gone to friends of the foundation. Recently, Fostering Sweet Dreams was the beneficiary of some generous families from Russell Dougherty Elementary School. Students planned and executed the single largest bedding donation Fostering Sweet Dreams has ever received. Russell Dougherty mom Laura Jarvis hosts a monthly mother/daughter bible study in her home. During a unit on giving back, Payne was asked to address the group. Jarvis explained that the girls interviewed Payne. “One of the questions was how can we help?” Jarvis said. And the dream came true. Never in her wildest dreams (pun intended) did Jarvis think the project would be so successful. “I’m not thinking as big as those little girls,” Jarvis said. The girls made posters and a donation box for gift cards that looked like a bed. With support from parents, staff and faculty at the school, the foundation accumulated 230 pieces, according to Jarvis. Among the items donated were 45 comforter sets, 73 blankets, 50 pillows, Target gift cards and cash. “I think there was complete participation,” Jarvis said. “They got to see the rewards of their work,” Payne said. “And they made a child feel special. Not all children have beds; it’s a luxury. It’s huge that kids get to see that.” “I’m so proud of them,” Jarvis said. Payne estimates that they help 60-70 children each month. Families in 30 Oklahoma counties have been served. The foundation accepts donations of new bedding (mattresses and box springs, mattress pads, sheets, blankets, pillows and comforters/bedspreads), new or gently used bed frames (toddler, twin and full) and cribs, new and used dressers and unexpired car seats. Of course, cash donations are accepted as well. In the new year, Payne plans to continue applying for grants, and her goal is to do one fund raiser per month. Her long-range goal is establishing a capital fund to be able to purchase a building instead of renting, as the foundation does now. “I want to make the foundation sustainable,” she said. “It’s my passion, my ministry.” To learn more about Fostering Sweet Dreams or to donate or volunteer, visit fosteringsweetdreams.com. Donations may also be sent to Fostering Sweet Dreams, 529 W. Edmond Road, 73003 or fosteringsweetdreams@gmail.com.

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.

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From the Publisher

In service to others It seems all too often we are reminded of how short life can be on this earth and that we should be making the most of the time we have here. You would have to look long and hard to find a person Ray Hibbard that has served their community as much of their 72 years as Edmond Mayor Charles Lamb, who unexpectedly passed away at his home last week. If there was ever an individual that we could call Mr. Edmond, it would be Lamb. He moved to Edmond in 1958 when he was only 12 years-ofage. His father had a cabinet making business and moved here to expand. You must wonder how many times Lamb thought of his dad when he was trying to decide to approve the re-zoning of a piece of land for a company that wanted to come to Edmond to expand their business. He was known as the mayor on his mortorcyle since it was his transportation mode of choice most of the time. Folks that knew our good mayor also knew that he was not a fan of collar shirts, ties or even long pants. He did like those round collar shirts that had a top button, shorts and white tennis shoes. He graduated from the only Edmond high school that there was at the time, received his degree from what is now the University of Central Oklahoma, got married and settled into Edmond to raise his family. For Lamb, this was the perfect life and he would not have wanted another one. He cherished his work in Edmond and there was not a single person ever more qualified to be mayor of this town than Lamb. He was a perfect fit. You couldn’t spend much time with Lamb without him bringing up one of his two favorite things if not both, his wife Cheri and/or his grandchildren. Like most of us grandparents, he would get to the subject of his children, Kelley and Erik, in time but it was those incredible grandchildren that always came up in the conversation first. His eyes would light up when he talked about any of his grandchildren. You could also see his chest puff out a bit when he would inform you of any of their accomplishments. He called them his “little lambs.” Despite the sadness from his absence, the Lamb grandchildren will always have their grandfather in their heart and remember his influ-

Charles Lamb 1946-2018 ence on them. There was something about Mayor Lamb that some would consider on the dull side but that was one of the most important aspects of his service to Edmond. He was an expert in drainage issues for this town. He received a good amount of kidding about his knowledge and concern for proper drainage whenever a project was proposed but I can promise you he saved millions of dollars’ worth of property damage over his time as a councilman and as mayor. He would admit that it might not be a very sexy issue but that proper planning for water run off when you pave what used to be grass is important. The long-awaited drainage project for downtown that has just been completed happened because Lamb continued to plan and push for it. I’ve lived in Edmond since 1988 with a few absences and have worked in Edmond since 1996 so it has been my pleasure to serve with the mayor in many capacities over those years. In all those meetings, exchanges, social engagements, fund raisers and bean suppers there was never a time that he expressed a temper, said anything inappropriate, was rude or even unreasonable. Lamb was truly a nice guy that cared for others, served his community and loved his fellow man.

Saying he will be missed is probably the greatest understatement a person could make yet it is so true. Our editor, Steve Gust, has a great description of folks in every town who get things done. Gust has worked in several towns and always at the local newspaper. He calls the group in each town the “Gang of 50.” His claim is that in every town there are about 50 people, give or take a few, who attend all the events, give to all the charities and make sure their community has what it needs to be successful. Lamb was not only part of the “Gang of 50” in Edmond but he was chairman of the board folks. The good mayor’s leadership style was fantastic. He had a great way of just quietly going about getting the job done. Lamb was not looking for publicity, recognition or rewards. In fact, I think it is fair to say he really did not like to be singled out with any kind of recognition. He would get embarrassed because in his mind he was just doing what needed to be done. Lamb also knew it takes many folks to get projects done in a city the size of Edmond. He wanted to acknowledge the help he got on any project and the other folks involved. Lamb was a team player and if there was recognition, he wanted the entire team to be part of it.

There are several projects that stand out to me during his time in service to Edmond. Some we enjoy today and others we will be enjoying soon and will continue to enjoy into the future. Here are a few that come to my mind. Lamb was a big part of creating our Edmond Juvenile Justice Program that has been so successful in our community. He was a key leader of the recent Title 22 changes that effect where and how development occurs in Edmond. He knew these issues backwards and forwards. After several failed attempts to get a new Edmond Public Safety Center off the ground, Lamb was key in getting that not only started but completed. It has solved several issues for our community for decades to come folks. Lamb never lost sight of the vision. He was always eyes forward on these projects. The development of I-35 and Covell happened due in a big part to Lamb’s involvement. It got difficult at times and at some point, looked like it might not happen, but Lamb and his band of soldiers marched on to ensure that Edmond would have a conference center that we could all use and enjoy. Like any other project Lamb was involved in, it was first class all the way. Here are a few things you might not have known about our mayor: n He served in the Oklahoma National Guard n He was Citizen of the Year and was inducted into the Edmond Hall of Fame n He was a past president of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce n Lamb served as president and current member of the Edmond Rotary Club n He was chairman of the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority and a key planner in how that organization developed to make sure its member cities have plenty of electricity in owning their own electric company. The list goes on and on folks. I hope a look at the way Lamb served his faith, family and community will be an inspiration to the rest of us. He was tireless in his efforts, cared for others and lived his life to the fullest. Charles, we will miss your contributions to Edmond, your friendship, our conversations outside the downtown post office and we will certainly miss seeing you on your motorcycle as you motored around the community you so loved. (Ray Hibbard may be reached by email at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside! n Weekend calendar of events ........................................................Page 6. n Border security discussed on Commentary Page ..........................Page 8. n New Edmond Board of Realtor officers ....................................Page 10. n Special singer for church Christmas Eve service ..........................Page 13. n George Gust reviews film “Mortal Engines” ................................Page 15. n Crossword ..................................................................................Page 15. n Senior news ......................................................................Pages 18 & 19. n Business News ............................................................................Page 21. n Worship directory ......................................................................Page 23.

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke

Find the ‘Rough Cut Swiss’ Rough Cut Swiss, in real life, is located in front of Othello’s Restaurant at the southwest corner of Main and Broadway, but this week it is hidden somewhere in our paper. E-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. Rough Cut Swiss is by artist David Phelps. Phelps is an Oklahoma based sculptor whose work has been featured throughout the state. He is inspired by expansive spaces and hopes his works will inspire meaningful meditation. Said Phelps, “I grew up on a farm in the central valley of California where the fields became an extension of oneself. I continue to live in the wide open spaces of Oklahoma where my sculptural images expand to include their environments as part of the aesthetic experience.”

Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com

Production April Burgess, Deanne York

107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax)

Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com

Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083

Advertising Account Executive Chris Thomas chris@edmondpaper.com

Contributing Writers Dave Farris, Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, and George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante

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Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 5

Reminder on upcoming ballet As a reminder, the grace of the Russian Ballet comes to Edmond next month. On Jan. 29 Armstrong Auditorium hosts the Russian National Ballet. The renowned performers are making their fifth stop in Edmond. They will perform ‘Swan Lake.’ For additional information please contact Armstrong Auditorium at (405) 285-1010.

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Fleming scholar research program is taking applications until Feb. 1 The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation is accepting applications for its 2019 Sir Alexander Fleming Scholar Program. Application deadline is Feb. 1. The eight-week summer program allows the state’s top science students to enhance their research skills by gaining hands-on experience in a lab setting alongside world-class scientists. High school seniors, as well as college freshmen, sophomores and juniors,

are eligible to apply. Students must be 16 or older to qualify. Students must be Oklahoma residents at the time of high school graduation to be eligible. Once selected, Fleming Scholars are paid and may be eligible for housing. The application process includes submission of a long-form essay, letters of recommendation and academic transcripts. “This is a chance to experience research in way a classroom can’t emu-

late,” said OMRF Human Resources Specialist Heather Hebert, who coordinates the summer program. “Students benefit tremendously from this experience, and our scientists also see meaningful contributions from their work in the lab.” The program is named for Nobel Prize-winning scientist Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin and also dedicated OMRF’s first building in 1949. Since the inception of the program in 1956, nearly 600 Oklahoma students have had the opportunity to work in state-of-the-art labs at OMRF. Two current OMRF vice presidents, Rodger McEver, M.D., and Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., started their research careers as Fleming Scholars. “This program provides a unique look at research and has helped plant the seeds for many successful careers in science, medicine and beyond,” said OMRF President Stephen Prescott, M.D. “For application information, visit omrf.org/fleming.

Thursday Dec. 20 ---- In the Gallery ---- Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered ---- Signature Tour ---- Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Downtown in December ---- Christmas in Downtown Edmond ---- Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll ---- Christmas Lights in Edmond ---- Christmas Concert Series! – Harriet Martin ---- Bryce & Bethany Meritt: Christmas with the Mrs. ---- A Territorial Christmas Celebration ---- Frontier City’s Holiday in the Park ---- It’s a Wonderful Life ---- Red Earth Treefest ---- Christmas Express Friday Dec. 21 ---- In the Gallery ---- Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered ---- Signature Tour ---- Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Downtown in December ---- Christmas in Downtown Edmond ---- Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll ---- Christmas Lights in Edmond ---- Bryce & Bethany Meritt: Christmas with the Mrs. ---- Christmas Concert Series! – Ashley Windham ---- Red Earth Treefest ---- Mark J Hainds Book Signing ---- Winters Night in the Safety Village ---- Michael McDonald ---- It’s a Wonderful Life ---- Frontier City’s Holiday in the Park Saturday Dec. 22 ---- In the Gallery ---- Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered ---- Signature Tour ---- Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Downtown in December ---- Red Earth Treefest ---- Christmas in Downtown Edmond ---- Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll ---- Christmas Lights in Edmond ---- Yule-Dogs! ---- Weekend All Stars ---- It’s a Wonderful Life ---- Frontier City’s Holiday in the Park ---- Christmas Express Sunday Dec. 23 ---- In the Gallery ---- Signature Tour ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Red Earth Treefest ---- Downtown in December ---- Christmas in Downtown Edmond ---- Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll ---- Christmas Lights in Edmond ---- Frontier City’s Holiday in the Park ---- Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink ---- It’s a Wonderful Life ---- Christmas Express Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring works by Jennifer Hustis For information go to: http://www.edmondfinearts.com/ Exhibit: Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Free Admission; an archaeological exhibition that will enable visitors to discover the history of ancient Judah’s most famous kingprophet pairing—a story which illuminates how Jerusalem escaped annihilation at the hands of King Sennacherib’s Assyrian army at the end of the 8th century B.C. For more information visit armstrongauditorium.org. Devon Ice Rink Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: 3 – 9 p.m. Mon – Thurs through Jan 27, 2019, 3 – 11 p.m. Fri, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Sat, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Sun., for more info visit downtownindecember.com

Downtown in December Location: Downtown Oklahoma City Extra Info: visit downtownindecember.com Christmas in Downtown Edmond Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: The celebration starts with the Mayor’s Tree Lighting and continues each weekend; Free carriage rides Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 3 pm.; for more info visit downtownedmondok.com Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Luminance is the new walk-thru holiday light display that will be open to the public in Mitch Park during the month of December. The lights will be on Monday to Sunday from 5 to 10 p.m. Residents and visitors will get to experience a oneof-a-kind holiday lighting event that will for sure get you in the holiday spirit. With Edmond being the premier city to have 3D lighted displays, you are sure to see something you've never seen. Christmas Lights in Edmond Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Edmond celebrates the season with Christmas lights in 6 areas: Downtown, the University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma Christian, Spring Creek shopping area, Mitch Park and Shannon Miller Park. Christmas Concert Series! – Harriet Martin Location: The Patriarch Craft Beer House Extra Info: 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., Child musical prodigy, Harriet Martin will be fiddlin' around for us on a Thursday night! Possible (probable) musical guests include Brad Moldynix and Brian Carmincke! Christmas Concert Series! – Ashley Windham Location: The Patriarch Craft Beer House Extra Info: 7:30 – 10 p.m., Come see a house favorite ---- Ashley Windham --- play a special Christmas Concert on a Friday night indoors at The Patriarch! Never a cover, and always a good time! Red Earth Treefest Location: Red Earth Art Center Extra Info: Open Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for more information visit redearth.org Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum,OKC Extra Info: 1 – 2 p.m.; see some of the finest Western art in the country during this docent-facilitated Museum tour. For more information, visit nationalcowboymuseum.org Frontier City’s Holiday in the Park Location: Frontier City, OKC Extra Info: OKC’s only theme park is decking the haps, the gift shops and the roller coasters in preparation for the park’s first ever HOLIDAY IN THE PARK. Six Flags’ signature holiday extravaganza runs select days through Jan. 6. Winters Night in the Safety Village Location: Edmond Fire Department Extra Info: 6 – 9 p.m., Free Event! Come see Santa at Santa's Workshop, Sing Christmas carols, drink hot chocolate and eat cookies. Be sure to bring a camara so you can get your picture taken with Santa on a 1929 Seagrave Fire Truck. Visit them on Facebook. Yule-Dogs! Location: UCO-Jazz Lab Extra Info: Door open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m., $15, Join the Old Bulldog Band for an evening of classic rock at the UCO Jazz Lab. Doors open at 6. Food and beverages by Hideaway Pizza. Music starts at 7:30. Reservations are strongly recommended ---- $15 per person. Message The Old Bulldog Band in Facebook, or email

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 7

Edmond Mayor Charles Lamb

Funeral services are held for Edmond’s Mayor Lamb Charles Lamb was born into eternity on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, at the age of 72. Born in Perry, Oklahoma to Virginia Lamb (Malzahn) and Clyde Lamb, he moved to Edmond in 1958. Charles graduated from Edmond High School in 1965, Wentworth Military Academy in 1967 and later that year, joined the Oklahoma National Guard. He married the love of his life, Cheri, in 1973. During their 45-year love story, they watched their children, Kelley and Erik, grow and raise families of their own. Nothing made him more proud than to be a husband, father and Papa. Charles spent his life in service of others, helping the community be the best it could be. With over 40 years of public service, he spent the last 18

Obituary Notice years serving on the Edmond City Council as the Ward 3 Councilman, and then as the Mayor of Edmond for the last six years. Charles’ legacy is being carried on by his wife Cheri, his daughter Kelley and her husband Robert Austin, his son Erik and his wife Candi as well as his five grandchildren; Taylor and Alexandra Austin and Ava, Reese and Grayson Lamb. There was no heart bigger, no light brighter than Charles. He will be remembered by everyone for whom he made this world a better place. Memorial services, were held Monday Dec. 17, 2018, at New Covenant United Methodist Church in Edmond. Services under the direction of Matthews Funeral Home, Edmond.

Musical act Saturday at Round Barn The McKedys, a family band from McLoud, will present Morning Music from 10:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 22 at the Arcadia Round Barn. Mackynsie, 15, and Austin, 12, along with their father, Bryon, make up the country and bluegrass ensemble. Austin plays the mandolin, guitar and harmonica, while Mackynsie plays several stringed instruments but focuses on the violin. As singers, Austin specializes in Hank Williams songs and Mackynsie favors Western swing. The siblings have won youth competitions in Oklahoma and Nashville,

and perform regularly at music festivals across the state. Bryon, who sings and plays guitar, is a veteran of several Oklahoma bands including “The Runnin’ Kind,” which plays most Saturday nights at the American Legion Hall in Tecumseh. Admission is free to the Arcadia Round Barn but donations are accepted. The Round Barn is located six miles east of Interstate 35 on Historical Route 66 and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about live music at the Arcadia Round Barn, call Joe Baxter at 405-833-1350.

Area light show will help benefit Regional Food Bank For the 10th year, one of the Oklahoma City metro's most spectacular Christmas displays will collect donations and food for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. The Downs Family Christmas Light Ministry in Norman features more than 18 miles of light strands to create a show synchronized to holiday music. The annual show runs 6 p.m. to midnight through Jan. 1. The show has provided more than 1.8 million meals for chronically hungry Oklahomans since they began collecting donations in 2008. In 2017 alone, the show raised $38,649 and 6,250 pounds of food. "Cold temperatures can force families to choose between paying their utility bills and putting food on the table," said Katie Fitzgerald, chief executive officer of the Regional Food

Bank. "The generosity of the Downs Family, and their guests, help Oklahomans during one of the toughest times of the year." Oklahoma is the sixth hungriest state in the nation with one in six residents in need of food assistance. The majority of people served by the Regional Food Bank are chronically hungry children, seniors living on limited incomes and hardworking families struggling to make ends meet. Through Jan. 15 your donations to the Regional Food Bank are matched, thanks to a gift from APMEX.com, the Cresap Family Foundation and Chesapeake Energy Corporation. You can donate at rfbo.org/give or call 405-600-3136. The Downs Family Show is located at 2900 72nd Ave SE in Norman. Learn more about the show at downsfamilychristmas.com.

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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Border security woes Shady Chicago-land politics I don’t know why a wall on the southern border is so controversial but apparently it is. If a wall could help prevent non-citizens and criminals from coming to the nation then it seems Steve Gust like a good idea to me. Many people don’t seem to have an issue with open borders for the nation. I think it’s a bad idea. The funding doesn’t appear to be that dramatic -- around $5 billion for one portion of the wall. Yet Democratic leaders don’t seem to want to see it funded. If Congress won’t fund it then can’t we just try a Gofundme page? ---The death last week of Mayor Lamb was stunning. It caught everyone by surprise. I’ve known Charles Lamb since 1988. He was a member of the thenEdmond Industrial Development Authority. It’s since morphed into the Edmond Economic Development Authority. Lamb then became a City Council member for many years before be-

coming Mayor in 2011. The guy was extremely knowledegable about city issues. I remember taking a ride out to Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford to view a performing arts center there and to see if we wanted one here in Edmond. On the way back on the bus Charles was looking at an Edmond Police officer writing someone a ticket. He knew the guy by name and was very familiar with his work history. I’m sure he knew a lot of the people who worked for the city A few months ago I was doing an article about the city’s walking trails on the east side. I needed a second source for the article. I thought of the Mayor because he was knowledgeable about most of the issues around here and was very accessible. He called me right back even though he was in Washington D.C. at a meeting. And he did know lots about the trails and had even walked them. I had no idea that would be the last time we would talk. He was a great guy and a great Mayor. God bless him and his family.

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

in 2018 are alive and well By The Oklahoman Editorial Board Most states have occasional issues with election shenanigans, but there's a reason Chicago is still held up as one of the worst offenders. David Krupa, a 19-year-old DePaul University freshman, sought to become a candidate for alderman in the city's 13th Ward. To qualify, Krupa had to collect 473 valid signatures from ward residents. He turned in 1,703. At that point, the local ABC-TV affiliate reports, the campaign of the Democratic incumbent “turned in affidavits from 2,796 people who said they wanted to revoke their signatures for Krupa.” You read that right: More people said they wanted to revoke their signatures than the

number who signed Krupa's petition. In fact, Krupa says only 187 people signed both the revocation affidavit and the nominating petition. False affidavits don't rise to the level of dead people voting, but it seems the “Chicago way” of politics is alive and well.Whitewashing Nazis? ---The musical “The Sound of Music” is a dramatization of the story of the Von Trapp family, who fled their native Austria as the Nazis took power. According to the New York Daily News, the administration of a famed New York City high school believes it's best to downplay that last part. The News reports students at LaGuardia High School say their principal has

ordered the removal of Nazi flags and symbols from the stage set. Students interviewed by the newspaper were upset and see the order as political correctness run amok since Nazis are the villains of the play. (The city Department of Education told the News the Nazi flag would appear in two specific scenes.) A portion of the play's run will be donated to Holocaust organizations. Unlike LaGuardia administrators, those organizations don't flinch from portraying Nazis as some of history's greatest monsters. ----Konstantin Kisin, a comedian, recently shared the “behavioral agreement” that students at the University of London asked him to sign before he could perform for a charity event. “This contract has been written to ensure an environment where joy, love, and acceptance are reciprocated by all,” the document states. Performers had to agree to a “no tolerance policy with regards to racism, sexism, classism, ageism, ableism, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, xenophobia, Islamophobia or anti-religion or anti-atheism. All topics must be presented in a way that is respectful and kind. It does not mean that these topics can not be discussed. But, it must be done in a respectful and non-abusive way.” In other words, you can be funny so long as someone, somewhere doesn't find an excuse for offense. The best part: Kisin reported comedians were asked to jump through all those hoops in exchange for no pay. From NewsOK.com

Blaming mainstream politics for extremists is risky By The Oklahoman Editorial Board For a host of reasons, there's been an increased focus on the white nationalist fringe in recent years with some commentators implying the U.S. political environment is somehow inspiring people to embrace racism and violence. This theory is undermined when one peruses a report by the Anti-Defamation League's Center on Extremism that examined extremists, including white supremacists, who committed murders. In many instances, those individuals appear little more than thugs, not people who took their cues from national political rhetoric. Extremists killed at least 34 people in 2017, the ADL reports, conceding that figure comprises “only a small fraction of the total number of homicides in the United States each year.” But the report argues the public impact of such killings can be far greater than for a typical homi-

cide. That's certainly true of two events included in the 2017 total: the killing of a woman at a white nationalist event in Charlottesville, Virginia, and an Islamic extremist's killing of eight people on a New York City bike path, both via vehicular homicide. But other cases involve extremists who were a greater danger to their family and associates than to strangers. In Greeley, Colorado, reputed white supremacist gang member Kelly Raisley was arrested for the killing of his uncle, Randy Gene Baker. Baker's wife and sister were similarly arrested. The ADL notes, “The motive was apparently personal.” In Samish Island, Washington, Lane Maurice Davis, who posted racist material online, was accused of killing his father. In Putnam County, Georgia, Ricky Dubose, reportedly a member of a white supremacist prison

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.

gang, was accused of killing two corrections officers while trying to escape from a prison bus. In Tampa, Florida, Devon Arthurs shot and killed two of his roommates “for making fun of his recent conversion to Islam.” The roommates were all reportedly members of a neo-Nazi group. In Leadwood, Missouri, the head of the Traditionalist American Knights of the Ku Klux Klan was shot to death. His wife and her son were charged for the murder. In North Judson, Indiana, a member of the Aryan Circle was accused of shooting and killing a man who was dating his ex-girlfriend. Those cases appear driven far more by toxic personal dysfunction than political inspiration. And where politics does arise in the report, the messages can be mixed. In Portland, Oregon, Jeremy Christian stabbed to death two people who came to the aid of two teenaged girls he was harassing. One of the girls was black and the other was Muslim. The ADL reports that Christian had attended “right-wing events in the Portland area” but had also been “a supporter of Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.” Extremism can lead adherents down dark paths that end in violence against innocents, as Oklahoma City learned in April 1995. Thus, it should always be condemned. But faulty attempts to blame one's mainstream political opponents for the twisted acts of extremists dilute that message and inadvertently give true extremism more room to grow.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 9

PHOTO PROVIDED

A second sculpture from renowned Oklahoma-born Chiricahua Apache artist, Allan Houser, was dedicated on the campus of Oklahoma State University last week. James Pickel (class of ’72) of Oklahoma City, gifted ‘Abstract Orange’ to the university. Pictured are (from left) OSU President Burns Hargis, First Cowgirl Ann Hargis, Pickel, and Victoria Berry, director of the Oklahoma State University Museum of Art.

Artist adds ‘Abstract Orange’ to OSU campus A second Allan Houser sculpture, this one perfectly matched to America’s Brightest Orange, was unveiled Wednesday during a ceremony hosted by Oklahoma State University President Burns Hargis and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis. Abstract Orange is a continuation of OSU’s initiative of integrating public art on campus. At the dedication, Hargis thanked OSU alumnus James Pickel (class of ’72) of Oklahoma City, who gifted the sculpture. “We cannot thank James enough for this gift; it’s a wonderful addition,” he said. “Unique, eyecatching work such as this will inspire others to help us place beautiful art all around our campus.” Pickel’s role in the OSU Public Art Committee inspired him to donate Abstract Orange.

“I have admired Houser’s work for years,” Pickel said. “I believe it is important for the community to be exposed to the arts, and this work felt like the perfect thing for me to contribute. Having the opportunity to preserve it in the official OSU orange was the icing on the cake.” Although Abstract Orange was originally set forth as an edition of five, the sculpture gifted to OSU is the only one to have ever been made. Before its arrival in Stillwater, the sculpture was sealed in a powder coat finish formulated to perfectly match the official OSU orange. Abstract Orange will be an extension of the OSU Museum of Art’s public art collection, along with Houser’s Singing Heart. Houser (1914-1994), an Oklahoma-born Chiricahua Apache artist, is

considered one of the most renowned American Indian modernist sculptors of the 20th century. Although Houser is perhaps best known for his narrative and figurative work, he began experimenting with abstract forms, which led to numerous new works. Victoria Berry, director of the OSU Museum of Art in downtown Stillwater, said campus art installations provide an opportunity for everyone to experience art on campus. She believes the abstraction of the piece leaves room for interpretation, which provides opportunities for it to resonate with a broad scope of viewers. The sculpture is located on the north side of the Student Union Plaza.

Page 10 â&#x20AC;˘ December 20, 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Edmond Life & Leisure

New Edmond Realtor officers The Edmond Board of Realtors installed Patrick Arie with Keller Williams Central Oklahoma as 2019 president. Other officers installed were Jilian Gardner with ERA Courtyard as president-elect; Brad Reeser with Keller Williams Central Oklahoma as secretary; and Jeanie Baggett with Century 21 Goodyear Green as treasurer. Mike Cassidy with Metro First Realty of Edmond is past-president. Directors are Michelle Gee with Century 21 Goodyear Green; Ben Floyd with 525 Realty Group; Robin Harris with Keller Williams Central Oklahoma; Krista Lusey with Metro First Realty of Edmond; Audra Montgomery with Metro First Realty of Edmond; Kelly Ranney with ERA Courtyard; and Frank Schuster with RE/MAX at Home. Awards Jim Webb with Coldwell Banker Select was named as Realtor of the Year for 2018. He has been a member of the Edmond Board of Realtors since 2006.

Tracy Ratcliff with Keller Williams Central Oklahoma was named Most Cooperative Realtor of the Year. Thomas Rosser with Gateway Mortgage was named the Affiliate of the Year. Brad Reeser with Keller Williams Central Oklahoma received the Harriett Wagnon Award, named in honor of former Association Executive Harriett Wagnon, who served the board for 25 years and lost a battle with cancer. The award and is given out only to a board member deserves recognition for selfless service to the board. The Edmond Board of Realtors created a new award this year to recognize longtime affiliate member Teri Wagnon, who died earlier in 2018. The award was received by friend and co-worker Paul Stuke with Stewart Title. Pete Reeser with Keller Williams Central Oklahoma received the National Association of Realtors Emeritus Award. He has been a Realtor for 40 years.

Higher oil prices forecast in 2019 After a turbulent two months during which oil prices plummeted from a four-year high to a one-year low, investors may wonder what comes next for U.S. crude. Analysts at Swiss bank UBS are among those who predict prices will recover in 2019, as oil cartel OPEC, the U.S. and Russia curb output from the current record level. "We believe the market's cautious turn is overdone," UBS analysts wrote in their recently published 2019 outlook. "On balance, we keep a positive view on crude." U.S. crude plunged 22 percent in November, its worst month in a decade. That followed a nearly 11 percent drop in October. "The decline in oil over the last month or two has been shocking to the market," said Lindsey Bell, invest-

ment strategist at CFRA. The sudden sell-off was sparked after R a investors grew concerned the global economy was slowing even as major producers continued to pump oil at high rates. The U.S. decision to hold off sanctioning countries that import oil from Iran boosted supplies further, and uncertainty over the escalating trade dispute between the U.S. and China added to concerns of a slowdown. After peaking at $76.41 a barrel on Oct. 3, oil prices bottomed out at $50.31 a barrel on November 28. Since then, oil has edged higher in choppy trading. It settled at $52.15 a barrel on Wednesday last week. UBS forecasts U.S. crude oil will climb back to $73 a barrel by mid2019, as supply cuts offset lower demand due to the slowing economy. From NewsOK.com

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 11

REMINDER -- Don’t forget the city’s Luminance display is still at Mitch Park on Covell west of Kelly. The holiday lights will be on display through Jan. 5 For additional information, please visit www.edmondlights.com

Edmond’s Miranda Jelinek named ‘Student of the Month’ at McGuinness Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School selected Miranda Jelinek as the December Student of the Month. Miranda was nominated by her peers and faculty for her leadership skills, dedication and loyalty to the school. She is the daughter of Todd and Dawn Jelinek of Edmond. A three year member of National Honor Society, Miranda is also in the French National Honor Society. She is an AP Scholar and has been on the President’s Honor Roll for the last three years maintaining above a 3.5 GPA. Miranda’s leadership skills are evident by her many activities at school. She was the Sophomore Class President and is a member of the Leadership Seminar Class, organizing various school wide activities throughout the year. As a senior she established a voter registration drive for senior students, helping to educate them on the issues, bills and candidates in the last election. Club organizations include Irish Outreach, where she has served as Treasurer the last two years; Art Club Secretary, French Club and Irish Arrows acting as a mentor to underclassmen. Active in Student Council, Miranda was Chairman of Fundraising, playing an instrumental part in helping Bishop McGuinness collect more canned goods for the Regional Food Bank than any other school in the state. She has been a Presidential Ambassador the last three years repre-

Miranda Jelinek senting McGuinness at various functions in the community. As a junior, Miranda was selected to the McGuinness Junior Homecoming Court. With over 350 community service hours, Miranda’s volunteer opportunities include altar server at St. Eugene Catholic Church; instructor at summer volleyball and basketball camps; Special Care, visiting special needs children, Bishop McGuinness Senior Service Project and most recently the Bishop McGuinness Canned Food Drive. Active in sports, Miranda is a four year member of the Irish Volleyball team, acting as the captain this year. Earning a varsity letter the last three years, she is also on the Golf team and participated on the Basketball and Cross Country teams over the years. Miranda’s college choice is undecided, however she intends to pursue a pre-med track.

Page 12 • December 20, 2018 • Edmond Life & Leisure

PHOTO PROVIDED

Some of Santa’s helpers this year came from the Edmond Elks Lodge. Helping out recently at the OU Children’s Hospital were, back row, from left, Cheri Elliott, Sharon McKinnon, Michelle Cooper, Madison Cooper and Jody Cantrell. On the front row are Les Cummings, Camisa Stewart Cummings, Roger Elliott, Leo Strong, Anita Strong, Joann Moorehead and LD Maxwell.

Edmond Elks support Christmas party for kids Thirty-seven years ago, the Edmond Elks Lodge started the annual Oklahoma Children’s Cancer Association Christmas Party in cooperation with the Pediatric Cancer Center at Children’s Hospital on the OU Health Sciences Campus. Exalted Ruler, Terry Horton was the first Santa Claus and for the next 15 years Mr. and Mrs. Buford Ford attended as Mr. and Mrs Claus. A year before the first party, several Elk members built out a closet at the Children’s Hospital to store toys for the children.

Held at Pediatric Cancer Center at Children’s Hospital Whenever the child underwent a procedure at the hospital they were treated to a toy of their choosing from the Elks Toy Closet. The Elks Toy Closet is still being used today thanks to many additional donors. Thanks to the Elks National Foundation’s Beacon Grant, the Edmond Lodge has donated $2,000 in toys, Christmas gifts and food for the annual Christmas Party each of the past two

years. This year over 300 children and 130 families registered to attend the party held in downtown Oklahoma City at Leadership Square. In addition to the donations, the Edmond Elks had 13 volunteers who helped serve pizza, cookies, sodas, water, handed out gifts and gave out 195 stuffed animals that had been shared by Mrs. Becky Powell and the Oklahoma City Elks Lodge.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 13

Student prepares for spring Wales studies became a U.S. citizen. As University of Central Oklahoma stu“I am so excited for the opportunity to dent Kalina Popova wraps up her fall sestudy abroad, especially when it is through mester with finals and projects, she is also a program as prestigious as this one. I am already preparing for the spring semester grateful that this program will allow me to when she will study abroad at Swansea read the many pages of life during this cruUniversity in Wales as a Brad Henry Intercial age of developing into the person I am national Scholar. She is one of only six going to be,” said Popova. Oklahoma regional university students to As a student at Central, Popova is active be honored with the scholarship. Popova in the President's Leadership Council, the Established in 2008 by the Oklahoma UCO Student Association (UCOSA) and the State Regents for Higher Education, the Brad Henry International Scholar program provides UCO Leadership Academy. “I am also very honored to represent this univera stipend for selected students to participate in sesity in another country and be able to share my mester-long study or research programs affiliated UCO experience with people across the world.” with Swansea University in Wales. For more information about Central and the Popova, a senior strategic communications study abroad and global experience opportunities major at UCO, is a native of Varna, Bulgaria who offered at the university, visit www.uco.edu. moved to Ada as a young child and in May 2018

Special Christmas Guests

Nothing says Christmas like reindeer. Earlier this month Donner and Blitzen made an appearance at the Bricktown Ballpark. They were guests of the Holly Jolly Shops - an event featuring 40 vendors. The shopping was originally scheduled for Dec. 8-9 but due to the forecast of bad weather was moved to last weekend.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Katie Bolding

Christmas Eve church service will feature soloist Bolding Soprano soloist Katie Bolding will be the guest artist for the 11 p.m. Christmas Eve Eucharist at Church of the Good Shepherd, 1000 N Broadway in Edmond. The church also invites the public to its 10 a.m. Lessons and Carols on Dec. 23 and a 10 a.m. Holy Communion service on Dec. 25. Bolding, who divides her time between Oklahoma and Germany, completed her master’s degree in opera performance at the State University of New York at Purchase. She made her professional debut with the Dallas Opera as Countess Ceprano in Verdi’s Rigoletto, and in 2010 performed as a chorister with the New York Metropolitan Opera. Bolding has performed in Germany, Austria, Great Britain and China. She lived in Germany from 2012 to 2017 and performed fulltime with the Theater Gera-Altenburg and the Berliner Staatsoper. The Rev. J. Michael Robertson, Rector Emeritus of Church of the Good Shepherd, said Bolding will sing traditional hymns, accompanying herself on acoustic guitar. He said she will play and sing “Silent Night” in German and English. Church of the Good Shepherd is a traditional Episcopal church in the Anglican Church International Communion. For more information go to anglicancgsededmondok.com.

Page 14 • December 20, 2018 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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Chris Cunningham with members of Continental’s Funding the Future committee.

Grants will allow teacher to purchase two drones A Central Middle School teacher recently earned a grant to buy a set of drones for his classroom. Chris Cunningham was awarded a Funding the Future grants from Continental Resources. Since 2013, Continental has awarded grants to teachers across the company’s operating area to bolster educational efforts in the key subjects of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and reading. The grants are intended to fund innovative and engaging educational programs that nurture students with the educational resources they need to grow into future leaders. “It is our hope at Continental that these grants are used to inspire the next generation of mathematicians, scientists and geologists in our state,” Continental Chairman and CEO Harold Hamm said. “Supporting Oklahoma’s outstanding teachers and students has long been a priority of

our company, and we look forward to seeing how this grant money is used to further the education experience and prepare our next generation.” Cunningham, now a three-time recipient of the company’s educational grants, will use this latest grant to purchase a set of drones for his classroom. His new curriculum also will include a coding component. More than 200 teachers in four states applied for Continental’s Funding the Future grants in 2018. A review committee voted to award grants to 47 teachers, including 33 in Oklahoma. The Funding the Future program was established in 2013 to bolster education efforts in areas where Continental operates. Grants are available up to $5,000. To learn more about this grant program, visit http://clr.com/community.

FAI promoting upcoming annual youth art show Young artists, statewide, in first through 12th grades, have an opportunity to showcase their visual art talents at the 2019 Youth Impressions Juried Art Show. Presented by the Edmond Fine Arts Institute and sponsored by the Oklahoma Arts Council and Kirkpatrick Bank, the show will run from Jan. 26 - 31 in the Downtown Edmond Community Center. The deadline for entry forms is Jan. 22. Registration is available online at edmondfinearts.com. The Juried Art Show provides an incentive for students to be recognized for their artistic talents. Students have an opportunity to display their work and possibly win $25 cash awards in Excellence and Recognition. Over 80 awards are distributed each year. “In the same manner that musicians, dancers and drama students have numerous opportunities to display their talent through recitals, plays and competitions, visual art students also need a vehicle through which they can share their works,” says Shannon Price, Executive Director of the Fine Arts Institute. “The Youth Impressions Juried Art Show does just that.” The 2019 juror, Romy Owens, is an artist and curator living in Enid, Oklahoma. She makes site-specific installations, as well as smaller objects, in reaction to place, community, and transformation. Both Owens’ artistic and curatorial practices are presently centered around community art de-

signed to impact social change, using art as a method to broaden our understanding of specific issues. In 2016, she co-founded Current Studio. Her art is part of private, public, corporate, and museum collections. She holds an MA in Photography and a BA in Media Studies. The Youth Impressions age categories include: First to third grades, fourth to sixth grades, seventh to ninth grades, and 10th - 12th grades. Media accepted includes pencil, ink, oil and soft pastels, watercolor, acrylic, oil, print media, photography (digital and traditional), mixed media, pottery and fiber work. No jewelry will be accepted. Two dimensional works must be dry and matted ready for hanging. Size is limited to 30 x 40”. Frames with glass are not allowed. Students may submit multiple entries for $3 per entry. Art will be received on Saturday, January 22nd from 10 AM until noon at the downtown Edmond Community Center, 28 East Main. A reception will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 29th at 7 p.m. at the exhibit for the artists, their family members, and other guests. Art must be picked up on Thursday, Jan. 31 between 2 to 5 p.m.. For further information, call 340-4481 or visit www.edmondfinearts.com. The Fine Arts Institute is Edmonds non-profit community arts organization offering educational enrichment for adults and children in the visual and performing arts.

For more information Please call the FAI at 340-4481

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 15

Review of film ‘Mortal Engines’

Good effects, so-so story line By George Gust “Mortal Engines” takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where cities ride on wheels and consume each other to survive, a mysterious young woman, Hester Shaw (Hera Hilmar), emerges to foil a world changing conspiracy. Hester, fueled by the memory of her mother, teams up with Tom Natsworthy (Robert Sheehan), an outcast from London, along with Anna Fang (Jihae), a dangerous outlaw with a bounty on her head to stop this evil plot and prevent the death of thousands. ing about the story we’re currently viewing. The advertising of this movie proudly touts Overall, “Mortal Engines” features some exciting “from the filmmakers of “Lord of the Rings” and post-apocalyptic, science fiction/fantasy action “The Hobbit”‘ which is clear by the massive comwith larger than life elements. There was obviously puter-generated effects, hero’s journey story and a lot of care put into the production of the film epic world building details. However, this film is more like “The Hobbit” than “Lord of the Rings” in with its steampunk aesthetic and stunning visual its cheesy delivery and oddly paced narrative struc- effects, but these elements are in service of a cliched story that is full of plot holes and cringeture. worthy dialogue. The slick visuals use the sense of massive scale The overall experience of the film is not an enof the gigantic cities on wheels to create a handful tire waste, but your expectations should be for of fun adventure/action sequences that are the something that is purely cinematic pulp as opbiggest draw to the film. The opening sequence posed to a compelling piece of moviemaking. alone was a pulse-pounding sequence full of tenThere are enough science fiction action and fansion that felt more like a naval battle on the high tasy elements that might remind you a bit of the seas, but that feel was quickly abandoned while old Star Wars films to scratch your Star Wars itch the young adult novel style plot takes up most of in the year between films. the films 111-minute run time. “Mortal Engines” is rated PG-13 for sequences “Mortal Engines” is a film plagued by trying to of futuristic violence and action. pack too much story and backstory into one film. 2.7 out of 5 stars By attempting to create a vivid and fully realized world, the dialogue and pacing suffer. Too many times in the film the dialogue sounds like a clunky information dump for the folks in the audience who didn’t read the books the film was based on. And when they aren’t trying to set up the world the dialogue is the epitome of cliché delivered with an extra helping of cheese. These moments of cringe inducing lines are peppered throughout the fantastically produced action sequences, but these sequences feel few and far between with the film’s oddly paced narrative that PHOTO PROVIDED feature far too many flashbacks In a post-apocalyptic Europe, London is a massive city on wheels that don’t reveal anything interest- consuming smaller cities in the film adaption of ‘Mortal Engines.’

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: YEAR-IN-REVIEW ACROSS 1. Bundle of wheat 6. ____-been 9. Urban apartment 13. Peter, South of the border 14. In the manner of, French 15. Photo-editing color option 16. Chieftain 17. Not well 18. Lively 19. *Late McCain 21. *American Duchess 23. "Some Kind of Wonderful" actress Thompson 24. Your majesty 25. Floor cleaner 28. Greek portico 30. *Super Bowl champs 35. Swear, not curse 37. Place for an ace? 39. Type of newspaper 40. Bar order neither red nor white 41. *Halfpipe winner 43. Toothy wheel 44. Be needy 46. Hindu dress 47. Unfavorable prefix 48. Ballpark grub 50. Lion's share 52. It can be red or black 53. Burden 55. Break bread 57. *First North Korean to cross Demilitarized Zone 60. *October disaster 64. Acoustic output 65. In the past 67. Tanzania's neighbor 68. Coral reef island 69. First off sinking ship? 70. Type of closet 71. Not there 72. Dashboard unit 73. Clear the board

DOWN 1. R&R destinations 2. Part of hemoglobin 3. "I Dream of Jeannie" star 4. "He's ____ ____ nowhere man," Beatles 5. Strong suit, pl. 6. Age of Aquarius flick 7. Nothing alternative 8. Game ragout 9. Onion's kin 10. October stone 11. *CA's Camp ____ 12. "Tit for ____" 15. Schmear 20. Often taken with a bible, pl. 22. Aretha's first three 24. Arabic greetings 25. *"____ For Our Lives" 26. Convex molding 27. Suggest 29. Sounds of amazement 31. *Cooper's leading lady 32. Property claims 33. Fill with spirits 34. *April missile strikes target

36. Make one's way 38. EU unit 42. One born to Japanese immigrants 45. 10 to the power of 100 49. Bearded antelope 51. Take on, as in a project 54. Take gun away 56. Not our 57. Burlap fiber 58. Airy emanation 59. Cairo's waterway 60. "Like a ____ to a flame" 61. *Starred with Blake in "A Simple Favor" 62. Some have them on the back of their head? 63. Swimmer's row 64. Follows #29 Down, sing. 66. Year off

See Answers Page 23

Answers on Page 23

Page 16 • December 20, 2018 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Cattle played role in surviving two major floods By Bryan Painter GRANT – The cliché is that time flies. Cattlewoman Brenda Schulz, who ranches near Grant in southeastern Oklahoma’s Choctaw County, won’t argue that point. However, two 100-year floods in 25 years is more like time sprinting rather than just marching on. “Some of our toughest times have come from floods,” Schulz said. “Along with the wonderful aspects of having your farm and ranch in the fertile ground of the Red River comes the possibility of flooding. Curt and I have survived not one, but two, of the so called ‘100 year floods.’” Guess what Schulz thanks for making it through those two experiences? Her cows. Thanks to the cows The first of those two floods Schulz is referring to came in 1990. The May Monthly Summary that year from the Oklahoma Climatological Survey reported that the agricultural-related floods losses exceeded $57 million. “We had leased farm ground that completely flooded,” Schulz said. “We survived, mainly due to the diversification our cattle provided. Our cattle pastures were up on the prairies around Soper, Okla. at this time.” Then came the floods of 2015.

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Brenda Schulz of Grant, Okla. is being recognized as a Significant Woman in Oklahoma Agriculture.

Gary McManus, state climatologist with the Oklahoma Climatological Survey, said that after being really dry for the first four months of the year, 2015's "Super El Nino" ended up inundating far southeastern Okla-

homa in May and June, and then again in November and December. “That area near Grant in Choctaw County ended with their wettest year on record, with most of that rain falling within a select few weeks during those four months,” McManus said. “In other words, it was way too much water, concentrated into very short time frames, for the local rivers and reservoirs to handle.” Schulz said the Red River overflowed its banks and half of their ranch flooded in May. She’s lived in Oklahoma long enough to have seen droughts turn dreams to powder. So she doesn’t curse the rains, she just respects them. “After the water receded enough to flow within its banks again, areas north and west of us received a lot more rain and the Red River overflowed its banks once again in June,” she said. “We were not able to grow grain crops on our farm ground that year, it was too late in the season and the cows needed it for pasture. The cows have helped us survive those trying times.” A small world Schulz witnessed/experienced agriculture from a lot of different geographical viewpoints before landing in Oklahoma in 1984. Not only did she grow up in North Dakota, she studied animal science at the University of Minnesota and worked with a veterinarian in Colorado where she met her husband Curt. They married in 1983 and a year later moved to Choctaw County, where his parents Delvin and Delores Schulz farmed and ranched. “We started a beef cow herd as soon as we could,” Brenda Schulz said. “I loved being back around cows and horses. Curtis was custom farming and spraying. We rented farm ground and raised corn and soybeans.” That was the start. Today, 34 years after settling down in Choctaw County, they raise Angus cattle, corn, small grains, hay and pecans on 1,500 acres along the banks and in the bottoms of the Red River, south of Grant. Schulz believes it was meant for her to live here, farm here and ranch here. Why? Even though she was raised in North Dakota, Choctaw County is within 45 miles of her father Tom Secrest’s birthplace. Her grandfather was a sharecropper cotton farmer around Deport, Texas.

Editor’s note: This is part of a continuing series of stories on Significant Women in Oklahoma Agriculture. The project is a collaborative program between the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food & Forestry and Oklahoma State University to recognize and honor the impact of countless women across all 77 counties of the state, from all aspects and areas of the agricultural industry. The honorees were nominated by their peers and selected by a committee of industry professionals. “He decided to settle his young family in east Texas when my grandparents’ wagon broke down, crossing Red River slate shoals,” she said. “These shoals are within 10 miles to the east of Stoneybroke Ranch, which is Curtis’ and my farm and ranch. It’s really a small world. I believe I have come back to my roots.” Those roots are extending as daughter Kylee and son-in-law Keith Edge (superintendent of Boswell Schools), along with grandsons Kollin, 16, Kamden, 14 and Kolson, 12, take care of their cow/calf operation. They also help out at Stoneybroke Ranch with projects ranging from laying water lines to checking cattle. Listen close Cattle and horses aren’t something Schulz just tends to, she cares for them. That was evident as a child when she was around her parents breeding operation of Paints and Quarter Horses. It was evident in what she studied in college and then in the job she took working for the veterinarian. It was evident in how she gives credit to cattle bringing their operation through the floods. It’s still evident today, especially if you listen real close during certain times of the year. “In the spring, the cows are calving and all the babies are testing their legs, running and playing,” she said, adding that they tag and vaccinate every calf within 24 hours of birth. “I get to talk to and check the cows for new calves.” Yes, “talk to.” What do you say? Schulz said she would softly say something like, “You sure had a pretty baby, didn't you? Good Mama!” It is an enjoyable experience like that, that makes time fly at a comfortable pace.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 17

Group Elects New Board of Directors

The Edmond Genealogical Society Board of Directors for 2018-2019: From left are Dick Cypher, second vice president and membership chair; Carol Bird, member-at-large; Charlotte Gales, hospitality chair; Linda Cotton, hospitality committee member; Andrea Aven and president; Karl Kueteman, treasurer. On the front row are Andrea Moon, webmaster and newsletter chair; Jan Beattie, first vice president and program chair; Sara Memmott, library committee Chair; Edie May Parmeter, surnames project chair.

About the Edmond Genealogical Society The Edmond Genealogical Society, which meets on the third Monday of each month at 6:30 pm at the Edmond Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, aims to support its members by providing presentations of genealogical and historical interest, by assisting members with their areas of genealogical research, by working with other genealogical societies and libraries in the state, and by volunteering as well as sharing information and research at the Edmond Historical Society and Museum. PHOTO PROVIDED/ BILL AVEN

Page 18 • December 20, 2018 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Some great gifts for aging loved ones By the time they reach senior status, many adults have amassed a ton of stuff along with their irreplaceable knowledge. Come their golden years, grandparents and other aging loved ones probably don’t need much in the way of material possessions, which can make it challenging to find them holiday gifts. Finding great gifts for seniors may take a little more effort, but with these ideas at the ready, it’s likely gift-givers can make this holiday merry for everyone on their shopping lists.

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Gifts for seniors do not have to be a challenge to find. Many services and items will be ideal.

Family photo memories Many seniors love to talk about their life histories. What better way to be the catalyst for conversation than to create a photo album that chronicles their lives? Photos can be included alongside historical documents, such as old school projects, military discharge papers, awards, and even genealogical information. Photo puzzles, photo calendars and any home decor with a photo printed on it are variations on this theme. Assistance gifts Seniors want to remain as independent as possible. By giving items that help them do just that, you can bring smiles to their faces. One idea is motion-sensing light switches and fixtures. If and when nature calls in the middle of the night, hallways or bathrooms can be illuminated effortlessly. Shower and bathroom grab bars are another idea. These provide extra security and stability when getting in and out of the shower or when using the toilet. For seniors who just need a little

extra reach, a grab tool can easily snag packages from a top shelf or pick up items that may have dropped to the floor, eliminating bending or straining. Practical technology Seniors may not be as immersed in technology as young people, but they purchase their share of gadgets and increasingly rely on tech to get through the day. To free up more time for rest and relaxation, invest in an iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum. This simple device will clean floors easily, moving from room to room without the need for a bulky canister or upright vacuum. Consider an easy-to-use tablet, preloaded with handy applications. Grandparents can use video chatting to keep in touch with grandchildren living across the country. Easily refill prescription medication with a pharmacy app just a click away. Stream favorite movies or channels through video streaming sites, like Netflix or Amazon Prime. Tablets tend to be lightweight, portable and userfriendly. Personal care Even independent seniors may benefit from a little extra companionship and assistance when family members are not able to make frequent visits. Hiring a visiting care worker, who can do everything from organizing pills to making dinner to tackling some laundry, can provide the help seniors need with their daily errands. Seniors are a thriving and growing demographic. It may seem challenging to purchase gifts for older loved ones, but with a little know-how, it’s easy to find the right present.

OG&E warns businesses & others about bill scams OG&E has seen an increase in customer reports about scammers posing as OG&E employees and demanding payment both in person and via phone. These scammers are especially targeting churches, small businesses and nursing homes. The company wants its customers, especially senior citizens, to know it does not send representatives out to customers’ homes or businesses to collect payments and will never demand payment over the phone. “We mail two separate notices prior to disconnecting electric service: a 10-day notice and a 48-hour notice. The notices explain the reason for the disconnection, the total amount past due and the date when service may be disconnected if payment arrangements have not been made,” said Brian Alford, Director of Corporate Communications and Public Relations for OG&E. “We do call the customer with a 48-hour notice and again the day before the service disconnection. We do not require payment directly over the phone nor do we send representatives out to collect payments,” he said. Alford added that an OG&E agent will inform the customer about ways to pay by giving a direct number to its credit card vendor, providing information about bill pay kiosks or directing the customer about how to pay online. “We would caution all of our customers to be wary of anyone asking for payments, either through calling and requesting credit card information or visiting you in person to collect payments. Reputable companies do not operate in this manner,” he said. OG&E has a web page www.oge.com/scams that provides

information about scam prevention and educates customers on the company’s billing and collection processes. Signs of Potential Scam Activity: n Threat to disconnect: Scammers may aggressively tell the customer his or her utility bill is past due and service will be disconnected if a payment is not made – usually within less than an hour. n Request for immediate payment: Scammers may instruct the customer to purchase a prepaid card – widely available at retail stores – then call them back supposedly to make a bill payment to his or her utility company. n Request for prepaid card: When the customer calls back, the caller asks the customer for the prepaid card’s number, which grants the scammer instant access to the card’s funds, and the victim’s money is gone. How Customers Can Protect Themselves: n Customers should never purchase a prepaid card to avoid service disconnection or shutoff. OG&E does not specify how customers should make a bill payment and always offers a variety of ways to pay a bill, including accepting payments online, via text with myOGEalerts, by phone, automatic bank draft, mail or in person at kiosks. n If someone threatens immediate disconnection or shutoff of service, customers should hang up the phone, delete the email or shut the door. Customers with delinquent accounts receive an advance disconnection notification. OG&E never sends a single notification one hour or less before disconnection.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 19

Agency can help provide older adults assistance There is an unprecedented growth of older adults in Oklahoma along with a dramatic increase in life expectancy. The prevalence of mental disorders among older adults will nearly double over the next two decades according to the National Council for Behavioral Health. These older adults commonly experience situations that put them at higher risk for mental health disorders; depression and anxiety being the most common problems that can develop in their later years of life. Behavioral health problems can result in a lower quality of life, sleep and appetite changes as well as personality changes and mood swings. This is not a normal part of the aging process. Many health conditions such as COPD, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, chronic pain, dementia and mobility issues raise the risk for late-life mental health problems. Late-life mental illness is highly treatable. Although mental health problems commonly co-exist with other health conditions, proper treatment eases problematic symptoms and restores quality of life. Having a good assessment by a health care professional ensures treatment will be tailored to the unique issues of each older adult. Areawide Aging Agency’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for the needs of older adults residing in an institutional setting and is available to assist residents or family members with issues a resident may be having in a Nursing Facility or Assisted Living Center. They serve residents in Canadian, Cleveland, Logan and Oklahoma Counties and can be reached at (405) 942-8500.

A way to make a real difference for seniors The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program serves residents in nursing homes, assisted living centers and residential care homes. An Ombudsman helps to improve the quality of care and life for the residents. As a friendly visitor and advocate, the volunteer has many opportunities to be of service and enrich the lives of the residents. Interested individuals must be willing to attend a two day training in order to become a certified volunteer and spend a minimum of 2 hours per week in the facility for which they are assigned visiting and advocating for the residents. Additionally, volunteers must be able to attend a monthly meeting for on-

going training and supervision. If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of those residents in Canadian, Cleveland, Logan or Oklahoma County, the next training is scheduled for Jan. 23 and 24 from 9:30 am. to 3:30 p.m. at Areawide Aging Agency located at 4101 Perimeter Center Drive, Suite 310, Oklahoma City, OK. Both sessions must be completed to become a certified volunteer. For more information or to RSVP for the upcoming training, contact Judy Mason, LTC Ombudsman Supervisor at (405) 942-8500. We will also be happy to send you a Prospective Volunteer Packet upon request.

Events at the Edmond Senior Center Lunch Program Details Monday- Friday, 11:30 a.m. Registration required one day in advance Suggested donation- $3 Visit Senior Meal Program for more information. Pink Elephant Bingo Players donate items for bingo prizes. Second Friday of the month, noon and event is free Quilting Group This group makes quilts of all sizes. The quilters make and donate items for special projects in the community. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Class size limited to 12 Free but Registration Required

S.A.L.T Meeting (Seniors and Law Men Together) S.A.L.T. councils are part of the national TRIAD program. TRIAD is an agreement between the county sheriff’s office, local police department, and senior adults in the community to work together to address safety concerns affecting senior adults. TRIAD is accomplished by forming city SALT councils, which carry out their TRIAD activities. The eight Oklahoma County TRIAD SALT Councils are Edmond, Choctaw, Harrah, Oklahoma City, Midwest City, Nichols Hills, Warr Acres, and Del City. This meeting is open to all senior adults. First Tuesday of the month, 12:30 pm and is free. The center is at 2733 Marilyn Williams Dr. Edmond.

Page 20 • December 20, 2018 • Edmond Life & Leisure

‘Border Walk’ author will appear at Best of Books Best of Books has announced the upcoming book signing event for author Mark J. Hainds. Hainds will be signing copies of his book, “Border Walk,” on Friday, Dec. 21 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Undeterred, Mark J. Hainds took a 1,000plus mile trek along the Texas-Mexico Border. On the banks of the Rio Grande, he began to realize just how wrong we are about virtually every aspect of life and death along La Frontera. Mark J. Hainds was first

published in 2011 with Year of the Pig. He worked two decades for Auburn University and as the first employee of The Longleaf Alliance. Mark is the first and only person to have walked the entire 2,000-mile US-Mexico Border. The Texas portion of the trek is featured in the film "La Frontera," which is played on PBS stations across the US. Please call (405) 340-9202 if you would like to reserve signed copies of books after the event.

Arledge & Associates Q&A

A preview of what to expect while doing this year’s taxes (Editor’s note: Below LaDonna Sinning of Arledge & Associates addresses questions dealing with accounting questions.) Now that we are approaching year end, what are the key take-aways for an employee from the new tax law? There is likely a significant amount of good news for you, however, there are a couple of significant caveats. The personal exemption went away this year. In 2017 it was $4,150 per taxpayer Sinning and dependent. In addition, state and local tax deductions, for those who itemize their deductions, are now capped at $10,000. That means the total that you can deduct for property taxes on your house and income taxes paid to the State is $10,000. For many folks, itemizing your taxes may no longer be the best option. However, in the way of good news, the standard deduction (used by those who don’t itemize) for a married couple filing jointly almost doubled from $13,000 to $24,000. And finally, the child tax credit increased from $1,000 to $2,000 per child this year. I never qualify for the child tax credit in the past. Did something change there? Yes. You very well may qualify this year. For 2017 the credit started phasing out for joint filers when their modified income exceeded $110,000. For 2018, that phase-out begins at $400,000. A substantial in-

crease that will result in most everyone qualifying for this credit. And even better, since it is a credit, you will see a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your taxes. But before you start thinking that your teenagers are now saving you some money, be aware that only children age 16 and under qualify for the credit. Older dependents may qualify for a tax credit of $500 each. This all sounds complicated. Do you think I should expect an increase or a decrease in my tax bill this year? That is very difficult to say. But if all things are equal with last year, meaning you have the same income and the same number of children living in your house, you will likely see at least a small decline in your tax bill. My best advice, however, is to take a look at all aspects of your tax return this year as there were a large number of changes. LaDonna Sinning is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Fraud Examiner and partner at Arledge and Associates, PC. Arledge & Associates, PC is a recognized leader in the accounting industry offering practical solutions in the areas of tax planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting.

This article contains general information only and does not constitute tax advice or any other professional services. Before making any decisions or taking any action that might affect your income taxes, you should consult a professional tax advisor. This article is not intended for and cannot be used to avoid future penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 21

EPS again named a top place to work

Special Guests at Citizens Bank of Edmond

RIGHT -- Ciara Brooke sings classic Christmas songs during the Santa pictures at Citizens Bank of Edmond. ABOVE -- Mr. and Mrs. Claus spent most of last Friday greeting customers and guests to the downtown Edmond bank. DEANNE YORK

Chamber names two more winners prior to awards banquet Jan. 25 The Edmond Chamber is proud to name Joe Cardenas, EST Inc., Mercy's 2018 Ambassador of the Year. Cardenas serves as the chair of the Ambassador Council, a group of dedicated volunteers who mentor Chamber members and attend ribbon cuttings, events and speCardenas Flores cial meetings. The honor of Ambassador This award is given to a young proof the Year is awarded to the Chamfessional who demonstrates leaderber Ambassador who is able to make ship, provides valuable service to the highest number of goodwill calls, their business or profession, gives ribbon cuttings and groundbreaking back to their community, exhibits inievents throughout the year. tiative and creativity and serves as a The award is decided on a pointrole model for young people, both based system with participants earn- personally and professionally. ing points through their The awards will be presented to involvement. the winners on Jan. 25 at the EdAlso Sammy Flores, Crawford Fam- mond Chamber Annual Awards Banily Funerals, is the winner of the quet. 2018 Tayo Fichtl Young Professional To RSVP for the awards banquet, of the Year Award, sponsored by OU please register at www.edmondchamMedical. ber.com/events by Jan. 19.

Promoted by Quail Creek Bank Jerika Coffman was promoted to Vice President, Credit Administration, last month by the bank’s Board of Directors. Coffman began her banking career as an Oklahoma Banker’s Association (OBA) intern with Quail Creek Bank in 2009. Following the completion of her Bachelors Degree in Finance from the University of Oklahoma in 2010, she accepted a position with Bank of Oklahoma in their Accelerated Career Track program. In 2011, she returned to Quail Creek Bank as a Credit Analyst, and has been named Credit Department Manager with this latest promotion. Coffman also serves on the OBA’s Internship selection committee and is a graduate of the OBA Leadership Academy.

Jerika Coffman

For the fourth year in a row, Edmond Public Schools has been named a Top Workplace by The Oklahoman. The district’s selection was based on employee feedback to a confidential survey conducted by Energage, an independent research company. The survey measured company leadership, job satisfaction, and work environment. “Edmond Schools owe this recognition to its dedicated employees who invest their time, energy and resources in shaping and Towne developing our communities youth,” said Superintendent Bret Towne. “This award is reflective of an inclusive culture where all employees are valued.” Edmond Public Schools was named among the top 15 large employers in the region. With close to 3,000 employees, the district is the largest full-time employer in Edmond. The Oklahoman announced the Top Workplace list on Sunday, Dec. 9.

Page 22 • December 20, 2018 • Edmond Life & Leisure

PHOTO PROVIDED

At the second annual Oklahoma Women in Aviation and Aerospace Day brunch, hosted by the Oklahoma Aeronautic Commission, Oklahoma Airport Operators Association, the Tulsa Airport Authority and BizJet International, pictured are event organizers Sandra Shelton, Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission, Alexis Higgins, Tulsa International Airport, and Kristy Slater, Wiley Post Airport.

Women in Aviation & Aerospace Day celebrated Among a crowd of 400 aviation and aerospace professionals and students, the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission in partnership with the Oklahoma Airport Operators Association, the Tulsa Airport Authority Trust, and BizJet International hosted the second annual Oklahoma Women in Aviation & Aerospace Day event December 6 at the BizJet hangar at the Tulsa International Airport. In 2017 the Oklahoma legislature passed a bill to officially recognize the contribution of Oklahoma women in the State’s aviation and aerospace industry. Oklahoma Women in Aviation & Aerospace Day (OK WIAA) is now recognized annually on Dec. 9, in honor of Pearl Carter Scott. Scott was born Dec. 9, 1915, in Marlow, and learned to fly at the age of 13 under legendary aviator Wiley Post. She became the youngest pilot in the United States with her first solo flight on Sept. 12, 1929. The stage was flanked by two BizJet engines in the Tulsa-based company’s largest hangar as dignitaries presented their remarks. The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission’s director Victor Bird delivered the welcome. Mayor of Tulsa, G.T. Bynum, Jed Cochran repre-

senting United States Senator Jim Inhofe, State Senator Kay Floyd of Oklahoma City, and Jennifer Hoffman, Director of Sales & Marketing, BizJet International, delivered brief remarks prior to the keynote speakers. This year’s event highlighted two trailblazing aviators from the Tulsa community – Nan Gaylord and Jennifer Wise. The event Chairs were Alexis Higgins, Deputy Airports Director, Marketing & Community Relations for Tulsa International Airport and Kristy Slater, General Aviation Manager for Oklahoma City Department of Airports. Both are members of OAOA and have been longtime public servants in Oklahoma’s aviation community. Sandra Shelton, Public and Government Affairs Liaison for the Aeronautics Commission managed marketing of the event. Many of the state’s top aviation and aerospace entities participated in Oklahoma Women in Aviation & Aerospace Day, including hosts, the Oklahoma Airport Operators Association, Tulsa International Airport, BizJet International, and the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission. Community partners included American Airlines, Creative Food Group, Delta Airport Consultants, Dr. Peter &

Meredith Madden, KSA, L3 Aeromet, NFP, Olsson, Pratt & Whitney, Spirit AeroSystems, and Stillwater Regional Airport. Representatives from AAR Aircraft Services; Ada Public Schools; Atlantic Aviation; Boeing; City of Tulsa; Claremore Regional Airport; Gilchrist Aviation; Green Country Aircraft; Grove Regional Airport; Garver USA; Guernsey; Guthrie Edmond Regional Airport; FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center; FIRST Robotics; Mead Hunt; HW Lochner; Lawton Regional Airport; Ninety-Nines Oklahoma Chapter; Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science & Technology; Oklahoma Department of Career Tech; Oklahoma Department of Commerce; Oklahoma State University; PCC Airframe Products; Riverside Flight Center; STARBASE Oklahoma; The Chickasaw Nation; The Osage Nation; Richard Lloyd Jones Jr. Airport; Southeastern Oklahoma State University; Spartan School of Aeronautics; Spec Tech USA; Stafford Air and Space Museum; Sundance Airport; Tulsa Chamber of Commerce; Tulsa Air & Space Museum; Vance Air Force Base, Vigilant Aerospace and the University of Oklahoma were among the attendees at the event.

Leave the diets behind for new year By Brian Attebery The holidays are here and right around the corner is the New Year! We all know what comes with the new year. Diet fads and exercise. Have you ever noticed that many of the same people are always on a diet, and seem to be the same ones Attebery overweight? I mean no disrespect for their efforts, it is a struggle that many face. The question is why are they always needing to try this and that diet to succeed? What do we mean by the word “diet” anyway? The term “diet” is a verb. Like most actions, they are only for a short period of time. I want you to think of “diet” as what food and drink I am choosing to put into my body to accomplish my goals of a lean, tone body? Are these the types of foods you can live with as a lifestyle? Do you know what kind of foods offer different types of nutrients to your body? If not, that is where getting educated comes into play. What is different about protein than carbohydrates for example? Why is broccoli different than an apple for nutrition and weight loss? These are the types of questions that many do not even know what to ask because they are following some limited, variety “diet” that they read in a magazine, online or got from a friend. Get with an expert to learn what you need to know. In simplest form, to lose weight you eat less than

you burn and you lose, right? It is not that simple. If it were, starving would work and we know that when we starve our bodies that our metabolism slows down to a screeching halt and that is counterproductive. Does starving work at first? Just about any ridiculous diet works at first. It is all about relative change/consumption of food. The key is to keep your metabolism up and getting even faster. That is accomplished by “proper” nutrition and exercise as a LIFESTYLE. This is accomplished by knowing what foods your body needs and when. This is accomplished by knowing when to eat more when you are not losing as well. That is a real hard concept for lifetime “dieters” to understand. You hear the term life is a journey, not a destination. That is the way you must approach your fitness and nutrition goals. Day by day, you make a decision to change things in your diet. Limit sugar and fat, increase fiber, drink more water and eat small meals frequently for example. It is not about cutting a certain food group or limiting yourself to a liquid only or any other “fad” you “heard” will work. Once again, it will work for awhile but can you keep it up or will your body retaliate and shut down causing you to gain even more weight than you lost in the meantime? This is where the term “yo-yo” dieting came from. The real key to seeing someone succeed is to see what their bodies look like months or years later.

I have helped people lose five pounds to 264 pounds throughout the years. The most rewarding part is NOT the loss of their weight. The most rewarding part for all parties involved is seeing them continue to keep the weight off as they finally accepted the fact that this is a lifestyle they must maintain. That lifestyle will go up and down some and that is normal. You just don’t quit all together eating properly and exercising. I know that genetic factors influence a person’s path through this struggle. I have the “Attebery” gene for weight gain. At least that is what we like to call it in my family. I have chosen to make this a lifestyle. I also enjoy all the yummy foods on occasion. The key is that I limit them to special occasions like Christmas coming up and that occasional social event so I can live it up and reward myself for a job well done. It is difficult even for a fitness expert. I was not born with a special gene that keeps me from craving hamburgers, pizza, carrot cake, ice cream and just about any food you can name. I just make choices to limit them and choose healthy over naughty more times than not. Finish out 2018 with the mindset that 2019 will be the year you make healthy eating and fitness a lifestyle.

(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 20, 2018 • Page 23

Be aware of holiday stress, group advises Who stresses during the holidays? According to OnePoll, about 88 percent of us feel stressed when celebrating the holidays. “Generally, perfectionists, chronic worriers, the isolated (particularly males), those who are grieving, and those predisposed for emotional illness are highly stressed during the holidays,” said David Swope, LPC, LADC, CEAP, clinical director at Sunbeam. “Some ways we experience stress include constant muscle tension, inability to relax, feeling pressed for time, appetite changes, sleep disturbance, physical or emotional exhaustion, irritability or angry feelings.” To lower stress, Oklahomans should prioritize by what needs their attention and what can be put off until a later time. Try involving others by asking them to share in the workload and delegate

tasks that need to be done. Connect with others. Practice relaxation techniques, such as: taking deep breaths and exhaling slowly; having a massage; exercising; practicing meditation or prayer; visualizing a place that is calm, serene, and gives you a sense of peace; playing; and; enjoying time with friends and family. “Think positive thoughts, practice stress reduction techniques, and this could be a really enjoyable season for you,” said Swope. Sunbeam offers high-quality, affordable counseling services for people of all ages who need help with life’s challenges. Clients learn ways to identify, cope and build strengths to overcome difficulties. Sunbeam’s staff consists of mental health professionals who provide traditional counseling services based on their professional training, experience,

and areas of expertise. Counselors are Licensed, License Eligible, or Master Level Interns who are supervised by Licensed Clinicians. Sunbeam’s counselors are professionally trained in individual, marital, relationship and family therapies. This holiday season, Sunbeam Family Services is asking the community to join them in raising $87,000 to help children, families and seniors learn, grow, heal and thrive. For more information about Sunbeam’s services, or to make a donation, visit sunbeamfamilyservices.org or call 405-5287721.

Page 24 • December 20, 2018 • Edmond Life & Leisure