Edmond Life and Leisure - January 6, 2022

January 6, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 34

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

A look back at 2021

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

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

For more information, see page 4.

Elaine Warner and nature’s splendor See page 12

FRIDAY, January 7 Partly Cloudy High 40° Low 32°

SATURDAY, January 8 Partly Cloudy High 62° Low 33°

SUNDAY, January 9 Partly Cloudy High 45° Low 21°

This week, Edmond Life & Leisure looks back at some of the events and images from 2021, which made the year so memorable.

Most people entered 2021 convinced new vaccines would lead to a normal life once again. The virus still lingers, but people were ready to get back to doing many of the things they did in 2019. That included live theater productions, LibertyFest, Heard on Hurd and even a new monthly artistic event in downtown Edmond, VIBES. The University of CentralOklahoma football team returned to play after 497 days. Its 2020 season was completely wiped out. That made the first time UCO had not played a season since World War II. Enjoy looking back at 2021 and please make 2022 a happy and prosperous one.

Page 2 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 3

Images of 2021

FILE PHOTO

The big story of 2021 was a return to attending events, that for the most part, were canceled in 2020. UCO’s drama department began to put on live productions again. Some theater groups also offered shows online, as was done for most of 2020.

FILE PHOTOS/MELINDA INFANTE

After almost a year of lockdowns, people were ready to get out and try to enjoy as many events as they had prior to the start of the COVID pandemic in March 2020 Above the crowds returned for the start of Citizens Bank of Edmond’s Heard on Hurd street party in June. Below, the students showed up last fall for high school football.

Page 4 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Scottsdale an easy get-a-way Lisa and I have good friends that host a New Year’s Eve party every year which is great fun. We have not been able to attend for the past couple of years because of the pandemic. All the Ray Hibbard material we read prior to the trip had me thinking even though we are both fully vaccinated and boosted the entire world was going to get this new variant.

We decided to take the risk and celebrate with our friends since all reports indicated that even if we had gotten the virus, we would not face serious illness from it. Happy to report we are well and feeling great.

Of course, we were cautious on the trip.

Scottsdale may be a long way to travel for a party but there is the added benefit of, well, the party being in Scottsdale. When we go it makes me wonder why we do not take off for Scottsdale more often.

It is such a wonderful place to visit and with direct flights from Oklahoma City, it is a snap to get to folks. We do not get the ease of having direct flights to many places from here so when you find a place that is as beautiful and fun as Scottsdale, we should make the hop more often.

There is a plethora of places to stay and enjoy in Scottsdale. They include a number of very expensive resorts all based around Camelback Mountain. There are also some more reasonable options. The place is full of outdoor activity and great weather, so you will not spend much time in your room. Our choice was the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia.

It is a Spanish inspired luxury hotel with an incredibly friendly staff. The property is on thirty-five acres which leads to a very open and spacious feeling for its three hundred rooms. They have everything from suites to private villas with their own pools. The resort has two spacious pool areas, and both are heated so if it is a little cool as it was while we were there, you can still enjoy swimming and the hot tub experience.

They have a top-rated spa on property which Lisa took advantage of on the trip. She said it was beautiful and a great experience. Our balcony had a view of the mountains, so I stayed behind and listen to the Spanish guitar playing out-

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa

side. The only warning about this place from me is that you get so relaxed you many do not want to leave the resort.

While the meals we ate at the resort were good, we went in search of more of the culinary experience that Scottsdale has to offer. Dominick’s Steakhouse is a favorite of the area and we enjoyed dinning by the reflection pool on the roof top terrace. Service and food were outstanding. We moved on to French dinning the next night at a familyowned place call Voila French Bistro. It was excellent as well.

The jewel that we found was a place called Franco’s Italian Restaurant. It was the best Italian food we have enjoyed this side of the Atlantic. A great family-owned place with a great story.

Owner Franco Fazzuoli was born in Italy in the city of Florence in 1942. From a long line of Tuscan epicureans and landowners, Franco inherited a love for food and entertaining. In his late teens, Franco left Florence to serve in the Italian Army as a paratrooper. He also cooked for his fellow officers, friends, and family during his leisure time. In 1966, Franco rejoined civilian life and co-founded a Trattoria in Florence. That restaurant was destroyed in a massive flood that affected the entire town. Even though his restaurant was destroyed, Franco stayed in Florence helping the "mud Angels" recover the art

that was ruined by the flood.

At the age of twenty-five, Franco left Italy for America to pursue his own adventure. In New York City, he worked as a dishwasher, kitchen helper, and in the pantry. After a successful stint in New York City with three different restaurants Franco decided to uproot himself.

He moved from the streets of New York to the Arizona desert. Franco met a young chef at a barbecue whose name was Steven Martin.

This was the start of a long and successful relationship. Steve had just returned from New York where he had been working at a restaurant named Petaluma.

For the next three years, Franco and Steve both worked the line together at the new Franco's Trattoria in Scottsdale located at Hayden Rd. and Mountain View. As happened in New York, his great popularity outgrew this location. In 1995, he and Steve sold that restaurant and opened at a larger site nearby at Hayden Rd. and Via de Ventura.

Every summer, Steve would go to Florence and stay with Franco's mother to learn her style of Tuscan food and living. He also worked one summer at Trattori Dante in Florence, Italy.

Franco decided to go back to New York because both of his daughters were involved with ballet in the East. His daughter, Emma, was accepted to the School of American Ballet. SAB is the school

for the New York City Ballet. Franco and his family relocated to Manhattan.

Emma graduated from SAB, and Leela, Franco's other daughter, wanted to come home from Pittsburg. Soon, Franco's wife, Caroline, and daughters returned to their home in Scottsdale. Franco commuted from New York for the next year and a half. He finally decided to open Franco's Italian Caffe in Scottsdale Arizona.

The night we were their Franco, Caroline, and his daughter Leela were on hand to make sure the family-owned business was on top of things. The food was outstanding, and the dessert was fantastic.

It was a dish called Merenghata and is a recipe of Franco’s grandmother.

His daughter prepared this combination of a meringue and gelato.

We caught a terrific exhibit called "Immersive Van Gogh". It is an art installation that features massive moving projections of the renowned painter's work including "Starry Night," "Sunflowers," "The Bedroom" and "The Potato Eaters."

You absolutely lose yourself in 500,000 cubic feet of monumental projections animating Vincent van Gogh’s oeuvre. Wander through entrancing, moving images that highlight brushstrokes, detail, and color – truly illuminating the mind of the genius. You are immersed in Van Gogh’s works – from his sunny landscapes and night scenes to his portraits and still life paintings.

The walk-through experience is an hour long with timed entry. Capacity was limited and additional safety precautions include touchless ticket-taking, hand sanitizer stations, social distancing markers throughout the venue, and digitally projected social distancing circles on the gallery floors to ensure appropriate spacing. All guests must wear a face covering at all times during their visit.

It is astonishing in scale and breathtakingly imaginative. We experienced Van Gogh’s art in a completely new and unforgettable way.

The exhibit is designed and conceived by Massimiliano Siccardi. If you get a chance to see this show or any other artist’s work presented in this style you should go.

Travel is great but always good to be home folks. Hope you had a great and safe New Year celebration, and we are looking forward to being your Edmond newspaper in 2022, as always.

(Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- Weekend calendar of Events ......................................................Page 6.

---- Health tips ..................................................................................Page 7.

---- What are our priorities? ..........................................................Page 10.

---- Elaine Warner looks at nature’..................................................Page 12.

---- George Gust reviews ‘Don’t Look Up’ Netflix film....................Page 14.

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

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

---- Comics ....................................................................................Page 18.

---- Worship directory ....................................................................Page 19.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2022 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 5

Images of 2021

FILE PHOTO/MELINDA INFANTE

Above quarterback J.D. Geneva of the University of Central Oklahoma Bronchos looks downfield for a receiver. The Bronchos defeated Southern Nazarene, 30-26 at home in the former Wantland Stadium, which was renamed Chad Richison Stadium last year. Richison is a 1993 UCO grad and the very successful CEO of Paycom. The exhibition victory for UCO came in March. The Bronchos had not played football since Nov. 16, 2019.It marked 497 days since the team had seen action. The 2020 season was canceled. In other UCO news, head coach Nick Bobeck ended his tenure at UCO. Taking over is Adam Dorrel, a former coach at Northwest Missouri and Abilene Christian.

Downtown Edmond enhanced its reputation for arts and events with the introductions of VIBES. Starting in spring and continuing through fall, residents were able to see local artists sharing their talents and selling their art. It is held the first Thursday of the month.

Page 6 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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

Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

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

Dec. 20 Sean Lee McEllhenney, 44 of Elk City. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, possess drug paraphernalia and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Donte Tarron Anderson, 32 homeless. Felony warrant.

Jacob Allen Rodriquez, 40 of Edmond. Public intoxication, Susan Ann Voyles, 45 of Edmond. Three misdemeanor warrants and one felony warrant.

Dec. 21 Jermaine Tyrone, 39 homeless. Failure to appear.

Derrick AC Green, 38 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

David Wayne Streets Jr., 31 of Oklahoma City.

Failure to devote full-time attention to driving and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Dec. 22 Brandon Duane Buser, 24 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Kaleb Dee Williams, 23 of Guthrie. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Francisco Javier Ulloa, 27 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Kerry Floyd Walton, 55 of Edmond. Malicious injury or destruction of property, possess firearm after conviction of felony and (felony) larceny of merchandise from retailer.

Jordan Franklin Prince, 23 of Edmond. Public intoxication David Peter 38 of Edmond. Making false alarm to 911 and public intoxication.

Dec. 23 Brett Alan Herrin, 26 of Lubbock, Texas. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Nicholas Mitchell Fleming, 38 of Edmond.

Felony warrant.

Brittany Lynn Hemmerich, 34 of Edmond.

Felony warrant.

Kirby Donald Keith, 63 of Luther. Two counts of failure to appear.

Garmon Thomas Justis III, 36 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Demeturis Latorris Meadows, 52 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia, intersection violation, fail to carry current security verification form in vehicle, expired license plate, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and (drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution.

Zachary Olin Lipscomb, 29 of Jones. Possess drug paraphernalia and two counts of CDS possession.

Linda Lee Ausby, 42 of Midwest City. Shoplifting.

Dec. 24 Bonifacio Xavier Quiroz, 34 of Midland, Texas.

Felony DUI/APC. Krystina Michelle Tapley, 35 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant and failure to appear.

Tamier Delano Todd, 19 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Danielle Alexis Shade, 29 of Guthrie. Obstruction of police officer and breaking & entering.

Michael Angelo Smith, 33 homeless. Obstruction of police officer, trespassing after being forbidden and breaking & entering.

Anthony Troy Mishion Jr., 41 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Kevon Travell Johnson, II, 31 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Yan-amont Billy Darianssen, 48 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia and trespassing.

Thaies Lee Griffin, 57 of Edmond. Felony warrant, public intoxication and a misdemeanor warrant, Syeda Masooma Abedi, 41 homeless.

Burglary/theft from a motor vehicle.

Candance Renae Hamilton, 36 of Edmond. Obtaining property by false pretenses (URC price tag or sales receipt switching/reproduce.), possess CDS and conspiracy.

Clifford Douglas Hamilton, 45 of Oklahoma City. (Misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property, obtaining property by false pretenses (URC price tag or sales receipt switching/reproduce), use firearm while committing a felony, possess firearm after conviction of a felony and conspiracy.

Samuel Charles Simpson, 40 homeless. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Dec. 25 Anthony Lloyd Bass, 28 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) possession of another’s debit card, (misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property, (felony value) receive stolen property, removed, falsified or unauthorized identification, operating a motor vehicle with defective/improper equipment, expired license plate, possess drug paraphernalia, failure to carry current security verification form in vehicle, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and a felony warrant.

Zakaria Bouha, 27 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Jordan Riley Allen, 31 of Stillwater. Throw human waste at government employee, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, threaten to perform violent act and felony DUI/APC. Richard Lee Wells Jr. 42 of Edmond. Two counts of possession of CDS and possess drug paraphernalia.

Shaundrea Jerrell Lawrence, 20 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication Dec. 26 Joshua Rayfael McGee, 32 of Guthrie. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Isaiah Lamar Coulter, 30 homeless. Burglary in the second degree, trespassing after being forbidden and two counts of possession of CDS. James Kenneth Jacobs, 40 of Moore. Possess of CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or combination of chemical or controlled substance Taylor Dawn Taylor, 34 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Brandy Patrick Rocky, 37 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear.

Percy Leon Jackson, 50 of Edmond. False representation to an officer and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

John Bruno Gearhart II, 37 of Edmond. No proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Emmanuel Kalala Masiya, 39 of Ottuma, Iowa.

Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Weekend Calendar of Events Jan. 6-9 Tribes Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sun, Jan. 9; 1 – 1:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

What’s Happening This Weekend Jan. 6-9

--- In the Gallery: Natalie Miller & Gallery Opening ---- Safari Lights ---- Downtown in December ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Shortt Dogg ---- The Red River Rambles ---- Arcadia Lake’s Eagle Watch ---- Signature Tour ---- Sunday Spotlight: Living Canvas Terri Parton, President, Wichita and Affiliated Tribes ---- Drop-In Drawing ---- Union Station Illumination ---- Winter Glow ---- First Friday Gallery Walk ---- Oklahoma High Performance Racing Auction Trade Show & Swap Meet ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Rachmaininoff Festival ---- Round Barn Rendezvous Extra Information In the Gallery: Natalie Miller & Gallery Opening Location: Edm. Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: featuring the art of Natalie Miller; Thu, Jan. 6, Gallery opening; 5 to 7 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com Safari Lights Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden Extra Info: through Sun, Jan. 9; 5:30 – 11 p.m.; okczoo.org Downtown in December Location: Downtown, OKC Extra Info: Through Sun, Jan. 30; downtownindecembrer.com Devon Ice Rink

Drop-In Drawing Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sun, Jan. 9; 2 -3 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

ELAINE WARNER

A lit up Panda bear greets people at the OKC Zoo’s ‘Safari Lights’ show.

Location: 113 S Robinson Ave, OKC Extra Info: through Sun, Jan. 30; hours vary; downtownindecembrer.com Shortt Dogg Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Fri, Jan. 7; $15 open seating – no reservations; 7 p.m.; calendar.uco.edu

Union Station Illumination Location: Scissortail Park Extra Info: through Thu, Jan. 6; 6 – 11 p.m.; scissortailpark.org Winter Glow Location: Riversport OKC Extra Info: through Sun, Jan. 9; riversportokc.org First Friday Gallery Walk Location: Paseo Arts District Extra Info: Fri, Jan. 7; 6 – 9 p.m.; thepaseo.org

The Red River Ramblers Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Sat, Jan. 8; 8 p.m. – doors open at 7 p.m.; $15; calendar.uco.edu

Okla. High Performance Racing Auction Trade Show & Swap Meet Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: Fri, Jan. 8; 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.; raceshow.net

Arcadia’s Lake’s Eagle Watch Location: Arcadia Lake Extra Info: Sat, Jan. 8 – Mon, Jan. 10; $3 per vehicle; 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.; arcadialakeok.com

OKC Philharmonic presents: Rachmaininoff Festival Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Sat, Jan. 8; 8 p.m.; okcphil.org

Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jan. 8 & Sun, Jan. 9; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Round Barn Rendezvous Location: Round Barn, Arcadia, OK Extra info: Sun, Jan. 9; 12 – 5 p.m.; arcadiaroundbarn.com

Sunday Spotlight: Living Canvas Terri Parton, President, Wichita and Affiliated

Send calendar items to infante318@cox.net

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 7

TSET: Small changes can help your overall health This New Year, Shape Your Future, a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), encourages Oklahomans to build healthy habits through small changes in everyday routines. Instead of setting resolutions without a plan to achieve them, create and maintain healthy lifestyles by changing one habit at a time.

“Unrealistic New Year’s goals can be overwhelming and hard to achieve," said Julie Bisbee, TSET Executive Director. "Try making a small change each month, like eating more fruits and veggies or getting up ten minutes earlier to do some easy walking around the house. Small changes add up to you feeling better and more energetic. Ultimately, this helps you and your family live a healthier life.”

The top two reasons the majority of New Year’s resolutions fail are because the goals are too big and feel unattainable, and there is no accountability structure to help maintain and track change.

Small changes harness positive momentum and build over time to create long-term healthy lifestyles.

Follow Shape Your Future’s 5-Step Guide to build an action plan. Then, track healthy changes on the Healthy Habits Rewards Card.

Easy ways to incorporate small healthy changes into your everyday schedule include: • Drinking water instead of soda (or other sugary drinks) • Moving during TV commercial

breaks instead of sitting still • Taking walks throughout the day or as a family • Cooking healthy meals together as a family with the kids involved, like Veggie Stir Fry • Snacking on carrots and hummus instead of chips and dip • Quitting tobacco In 2019, Alex, a 31-year-old marketing professional, and her family were featured in a testimonial for Shape Your Future. Alex realized she needed to be healthier for herself and her family. By making small changes, like taking the stairs, planning ahead for meals and eating healthy snacks, Alex saw her health transform. Her story is a perfect illustration of how to start a health journey one step at a time for success.

“As we adjust to building a healthy lifestyle with our two kids, this New Year my husband and I plan to include two walks around the neighborhood into our weekly routine,” Alex said. “I am looking forward to meal prepping shredded chicken with veggies to serve in sandwiches, salads or tacos. It will make packing healthy lunches easy and efficient during the week.”

Healthy lifestyles go beyond nutrition and exercise. Shape Your Future also encourages tobacco-free lifestyles for teens and adults. Make quitting tobacco your New Year’s resolution and celebrate daily quit-attempt victories through small steps that lead to powerful changes.

Treatment to quit tobacco Do you have a New Year’s resolution to quit tobacco? If so, the TSET Health Promotion Research Center (HPRC) offers treatment that may help.

The HPRC offers tobacco cessation treatment through the Tobacco Treatment Research Program (TTRP) at no cost to participants. The TTRP provides tobacco cessation counseling services (in-person or by telephone), nicotine patches and nicotine lozenges or gum all at no cost, regardless of insurance status. Additionally, there are opportunities to participate in paid tobacco cessation research studies involving smartphone apps, prescription medications and monetary rewards for quitting.

Transportation assistance is even available for eligible and interested adults. TTRPs new and innovative treatment interventions may help even those who have had difficulty quitting smoking in the past. To participate in the program, participants must be 18 years or older and use cigarettes or other nicotine products.

“You don’t have to do this alone.

You have the best chance of quitting if you use treatments that are proven effective - including counseling and nicotine replacement therapy. Our trained and caring staff want to help you become tobacco free in 2021,” Dr. Darla Kendzor, HPRC Co-Director, explained.

For more information about smoking cessation treatment and participating in research, call: (405) 271-QUIT (7848), email: TTRP@ouhsc.edu, or visit: 271quit.com The HPRC is an integral component of the Cancer Prevention and Control Program of the NCI-designated OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center. Over the past six years, the HPRC has become a nationally recognized tobacco research center. Modifiable health risk factors that substantially impact the health of Oklahomans have increasingly become a research focus of center investigators (e.g., sedentary lifestyle, risky alcohol and other substance use).

Using maps to help walk with all of your ancestors Maps have been created and used for hundreds of years. The maps of today look very different from the maps of long ago.

Even the access to maps has changed.

Years ago everyone Guerin used paper or printed maps but today we have navigation apps to download that will not only show us how to get to our destination, but tell us turn by turn each step of our journey.

Google Earth is a new twist to how we can use maps. Google Earth is satellite images of the entire globe and includes the ability to zoom in on specific locations. Do you have a picture of the house your grandparents lived in? Are you curious about the Main Street your ancestors walked on? Or the neighborhood they lived in? How can using Google Earth connect you to those places?

On Wednesday, Jan. 19, the Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group will host

member Jerry Guerin as he presents, “Walk with Your Ancestors: Overlay Historical Maps onto Google Earth.”

Guerin will demonstrate how we can find historical maps online and then, using Google Earth as an overlay, see what the area looks like today. He will show how we can use this new tool as we explore our family roots.

Guerin has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Master of Arts in Community Health Planning. He has worked in various Healthcare agencies in Illinois, Nebraska and Oklahoma.

He currently volunteers in the Oklahoma History Center Photographic Archives helping to sort and scan current photographs from the Daily Oklahoman Newspaper.

Our meeting is at 10 a.m. at the Oklahoma County Extension building, 2500 NE 63rd St., and is open to the public. Masks are strongly encouraged and social distancing will be maintained. For more information and details on watching this via ZOOM, please go to our facebook page: ohcegenealogy, or our website: www.ohcegenealogy.com.

Page 8 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 9

Images of 2021 After 24 months, Edmond’s LibertyFest parade was back. The entire LibertyFest was canceled in 2020.

Most of the events were back last year with the exception of Taste of Edmond. Thousands lined downtown Edmond for the July Fourth parade.

File Photo MELINDA INFANTE

Images of 2021

In the spring, DAR’s Cordelia Steen Chapter Regent Andrea Aven, left, and Vice Regent Tammy Ross provided the chapter's donations to the COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the Edmond Public Schools headquarters at Kelly and Danforth. Thousands of Edmond residents received vaccines during 2021. It started with older residents and eventually included almost everyone.

In the inset, an Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation official displays the safety of the vaccine.

Page 10 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

The right priorities?

If our world had its prioriAs another year gets under ties right we might be able way, we can be grateful. to provide most of the There’s no doubt we have world with clean water. problems. But it could be a Don’t forget we left $80 bilwhole lot worse. lion worth of military equipOne of the poor nations of ment in Afghanistan in a the world is Malawi in southcompletely botched witheast Africa. If you’re born drawal operation. To put there you have a life exthat in perspective, it would pectancy of about 50 years.

Steve Gust be like the Sooners playing One of the nonprofits, which a football game with 80,000 in atsends me literature, advocates for tendance. And each person who clean water. It’s probably a surprise to a lot of folks that hundreds of mil- went to the game would receive $1 million. lions of people don’t have easy acHow many water wells could be cess to clean water. In a recent letter, dug for $80 billion? Probably several I was shown a photograph of a little thousand would be my guess. boy, about 10 or so. The child was Yes this year we’ll take on many iscarrying what looked to be a five-galsues, including inflation, which costs lon bucket. The caption said the all of us money. And it looks like child walks almost 10 miles daily to we’re stuck with this cursed virus for get clean water for his family. the foreseeable future.

In this country we go a matter of And let’s at least pray that people a few feet to one of several taps in in the world, without clean water or our home. We then enjoy, and use, enough food, can someday not as much water as we want. But not worry any longer about either of in some places of the world. those necessities.

Just doesn’t seem right to me.

Bill would make sheriff top law officer Rep. Jay Steagall, RYukon, Chair of the Oklahoma House States Rights Committee, has filed legislation for the upcoming session that would identify county sheriffs as the constitutionally-recognized chief law enforcement officer of their respective counties.

Currently, there is no statute in place that designates a chief law enforcement officer of a county, and Steagall says this legislation is important to make sure that lack of recognition does not cause issues in the future.

"The office of your county sheriff is charged with numerous duties in-

cluding supporting the justice of the county, keeping the peace and protecting our lives and property," Steagall said.

"However, there is no greater duty that a Sheriff has taken an oath to discharge than that of supporting and defending both our state and national constitutions.

Sheriffs are responsible directly to the people in their elective capacity, which is unlike any other law enforcement position in our Union."

Canadian County Sheriff Chris West, President of the Oklahoma Sheriffs' Association and Secretary of the National Sheriffs' Association, worked with Steagall to introduce the

legislation.

"It is a tremendous honor to work with Rep. Steagall on this very important piece of legislation," West said. "I have been fortunate to have worked with many outstanding federal, state, county and municipal law enforcement agents throughout my career in different capacities and on multiple types of cases. However, unlike all other police executives, sheriffs are elected by and answer directly to their constituents. The securing of the constitutionally-recognized and protected freedom, liberty and rights of those they represent is of an utmost priority to our sheriffs, which makes recognizing their position as the county's chief law enforcement officer vitally important for our citizens."

Steagall said that this legislation is also important due to a continued effort by the federal government to reach into the day-to-day issues of states and municipalities.

"This legislation solidifies in statute our support for our county sheriffs and ensures that there is a constitutionallyrecognized law enforcement officer working on the behalf of those who have elected them," Steagall said. "If the federal government tries to encroach on the rights of our counties or municipalities, the citizens should feel confident that their elected chief law enforcement officer has the power to draw a line in the sand and push back against that overreach.

The sheriff is the local protector of the people's rights, and in their sphere is superior to all persons acting contrary to the rights of the people.”

As seen by Crowe & Dunleavy law firm

Five top 2021 issues impacting employers The beginning of 2021 was filled with hope that everything would start getting better and return to “normal.” But, instead, 2021 has been full of starts and stops to life and the economy.

As the new year starts, Crowe & Dunlevy labor and employment attorney Evan Way has compiled the top five legal issues impacting employers, what they mean for the future and what businesses can learn from the last 12 months.

COVID-19 - First, we can’t discuss employment law without mentioning COVID-19. It permeates every human resources department decision and leaves employers reeling with legal uncertainty. On Dec. 17, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the Fifth Circuit’s stay on OSHA’s emergency temporary rule (ETS) requiring all private employers with over 100 employees to be vaccinated or submit to weekly

now comply with the ETS by Jan. 10, 2022, but OSHA will not issue citations for noncompliance with the ETS requirements before Feb. 9, 2022, so long as an employer is exercising reasonable, good-faith efforts to come into compliance with the standard. As of today, the requirement for all federal contractors to be vaccinated is stayed, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services rule requiring all healthcare workers to be vaccinated is also stayed. There are undoubtedly many legal challenges on the horizon regarding these three mandates including an appeal that has already been filed to the U.S. Supreme Court on the OSHA ETS, which ultimately means uncertainty in the short-term for employers. If your company fits into one of the categories currently in legal limbo, be proactive and have a contingency plan to implement the mandate(s) should any ever fully

Great Resignation - Second, the Great Resignation has dominated op-eds, special-interest stories and baffled economists and professors alike. Most anyone who goes to a restaurant that has reopened will tell you that the quality of service has decreased. There are labor shortages across the service industry. This has led to longer lines, increased wait times and, generally, a decrease in service. But, interestingly, some sectors of the job market have grown during the Great Resignation, which suggests that workers are leaving lower wage jobs for higher wage jobs, not that workers are exiting the workforce altogether. We’ll see what the autopsy from social scientists and economists reveals in the coming years as the true legacy of the Great Resignation. For now, it means employers need to at the very least be more competitive and transparent on pay and benefits to

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.

Minimum Wage - Third, the Congressional push to increase the federal minimum wage has stalled.

But that didn’t stop Tribal, state, and local governments from increasing their minimum wages. The current federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, and it’s been at this number since 2009. The most vocal proponents for increasing the minimum wage advocate for $15 per hour, while others believe this would result in fewer jobs, higher consumer prices and would be a death knell for mom-and-pop stores. The ultimate outcome remains unclear, but the hourly rate to attract workers will almost certainly increase. This is due to a shortage of workers and historic inflation. Employers can prepare for wage increases now by considering offering higher wages and consolidating positions, increasing consumer prices and taking actions that reduce overhead.

Remote Work - Speaking of which, fourth, remote work is here to stay. Workers now have an expectation of flexibility to complete their work tasks. Many have been more efficient working from home and enjoy the time and money saved not commuting, buying lunches, and staying home. Many employers have benefited from reducing overhead in the form of office space and utilities. Something is invariably lost for

See Issues, Pg 11

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 11

Issues

Images of 2021 From Page 10

are remotely located, but others succeed in spades. What this means is that the workforce is now more mobile than ever. It’s also an opportunity for employers to attract workers by offering remote-work options, which may be a partial substitute for higher wages. While not every occupation can be performed remotely, employers who have this option need to make sure their remotework policies are up-to-date and understood by employees. Employers also need to be aware that differing laws may apply depending on which jurisdiction their employees work in, even if remote.

Social Responsibility - Finally, there has been a push for employers to be more socially responsible. For better or worse, no longer can businesses stand on the sidelines of social issues. We’ve all read headlines that top executives have stepped

down due to past indiscretions, the now infamous “Karen” was terminated, and some businesses faced boycotts regarding various issues. To say it’s a tricky issue for employers to navigate is an understatement.

Businesses now need to be more cognizant of where their materials are sourced, their environmental impact, and a litany of other issues. To grapple with these changes, employers should review and update their diversity, inclusion, and equality policies; social media policies; and offduty conduct policies.

With 2022 just arrivingr, here’s hoping that we’ll have more clarity regarding the employer-employee relationship and how we can all better succeed together. In the meantime, keep your eyes on the five big employment law issues of 2021 outlined here, because those issues are not going away any time soon.

Images of 2021

FILE PHOTO

Edmond lost many special people during the year. Among them was Morris ‘Hoot’ Gibson, the founder of the McCalls men’s clothing store in downtown Edmond. Hoot was also a huge advocate of downtown Edmond and the business community. He died at age 98. He was known for starting his buisness in the early 1950s. He had help in the effort from a friend of his, James Garner, the late and very famous television and motion picture star.

Hoot died in May.

Two new leaders

FILE PHOTOS FILE PHOTO/PATTY MILLER

State Sen. Jake Merrick, of district 22 makes a point during an Edmond School Board meeting. In Edmond, as well as most of the nation, parents showed up at meetings to protest mask mandates as well as objecting to some material being taught. Merrick won a special election for his seat earlier in the year. The Republican replaced Stephanie Bice who won a Congressional election, knocking off incumbent Democrat Kendra Horn.

Two familiar people were promoted to top leadership jobs in Edmond. Darrell Davis, left, was elected as Mayor in Edmond. He made history by becoming the first Black mayor in the town’s history. Davis had served on the Edmond City Council prior to his election. He replaced Dan O’Neil who did not seek re-election.

Also, Angela Grunewald, right, became the first female superintedent for the Edmond Public Schools. She held administrative roles for EPS before being named to the top post in June. She replaced Bret Towne, who retired.

Page 12 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Cranes begin arriving in the area in late February and continue to arrive through March. They spend about three weeks scavenging nearby cornfields for waste corn and supplementing their diets with snails and small invertebrates in the wet meadows. They will gain ten to twenty percent of their body weight to prepare them for the rest of their journey

Elaine reflects on nature’s beauty

By Elaine Warner One assignment when I took photography at UCO was to take a landscape shot with nothing man-made in the picture. It was harder than I anticipated. There always seemed to be a sign, a pole, a fence, something in my way.

Last weekend I heard a podcast Elaine on KGOU – 1A, an NPR program – with an interview with photographer/filmmaker Pete McBride. He’s created a book about another way our technological society has impinged on our senses. The book, Seeing Silence, is about hearing the sounds of nature uncluttered by human interventions. Again, it proves to be much harder than I had thought.

It made me reflect on the times when I was aware of only natural sounds – only three came to mind. I’d like to share them with you.

Twenty years ago, Jack and I visited Laramie River Ranch in Colorado. Truly in the middle of nowhere, it was located in a wide, high valley with rolling mountains nearby and the snow-capped Rockies in the distance. The ranch was a mecca for equestrians of all levels of experience. Activities ranged from gentle trail rides to rodeo skills and ranch chores.

Some of the guests had gotten up early to ride out to move cattle from one pasture to another.

With an estimate of the time when the riders and cattle would ride by, I walked up the driveway to wait for a chance to photograph the group. Here’s what I wrote in my journal.

“As I waited for the herd to appear, I enjoyed the fresh morning air, which was scented with the sweet smell of sage. The overlying silence was profound, but not complete. There was the occasional skritching of an extremely opinionated bird – maybe one of two sandhill cranes I had spotted earlier in the morning. A tiny sparrow landed in the brush close by – then, as if sensing a foreign presence, took flight. In the quiet, I could hear the beat of his wings. Various peeps and chirps were accompanied by an insect’s buzz and the whuffle of the light breeze. No man-made sound – no automobile, no airplane, no air conditioner intruded.

“I waited for the 8:30 herd, but unlike the city, ranch life runs on a different time table. Finally in the distance, I could hear the calling cattle. As I waited, the sound became more insistent but still out of sight. The bawling and mooing was deceptive, sometimes sounding near then farther away.

At 9:30 I heard the yip and whistle of a cowboy.

And the spell was broken.”

In 2016, Jack and I visited Badlands National Park in South Dakota – one of my favorite parks.

We spent the night in Cedar Pass Lodge in the park. I’m an early riser – Jack is not. Just after sunrise, I quietly got up, dressed and took the keys to the car. The Badlands Loop Road increased in elevation as I drove past strange mounds and peaks carved by wind and water. Cresting a hill, a wide prairie stretched out on one side of the road. Stopping at an overlook, the mixed grasslands at my back, I felt like the only person on earth. Looking out over the badlands, I could only imagine the dismay of the first explorer when, traveling over the flat plain, first saw the ground fall away into a desolate, misshapen landscape.

The sun’s early rays hit the high spots, with deep shadows in the cracks and crevices. I could hear the grasses – there are over 60 varieties in the park – shiver in the breeze. The soft rustle was only broken by the warble of a western meadowlark. What an amazing and magnificent view and how lucky I was to be able to stand quietly, breathe deeply, and give a prayer of thanks for the

The moon hung over the highway as dawn broke in Badlands National Park.

wonder of the place.

My third memorable moment was completely different. This one took place in Nebraska in March, 2017, and, unlike the quiet of the prairie, this one was filled with unbelievable natural noise.

It was dark and it was cold. Up at 5, we got to the Crane Trust on the Platte River in time to walk softly to the blinds by 6:30. My press group played follow-the-leader in the dark – the leader carrying a small penlight, which gave off a faint, red ray.

Ethologist Jane Goodall has described the migration of the sandhill cranes as one of the top ten

Journalists take turns photographing the cranes though windows in a blind on the Platte River. At the peak of migration there may be as many as 400,000 birds in the area.

migrations in the world. Thousands of cranes stop on a 70-mile stretch of the river on their way from their winter homes in northern Mexico, New Mexico and Texas en route to summer homes in Canada, Alaska and even Siberia.

Once inside the blinds, we remained quiet. In the gray, pre-dawn we could barely distinguish the birds but we could hear them. As it got lighter, the mounds in the water became masses of birds. The noise increased as they began to wake for the day.

Sandhill cranes are attractive birds with mottled gray feathers and a distinctive red patch from the tops of their heads to their black bills They stand three- to four-feet tall with six-foot wing spans.

Their call is a rattle-like trill, which can be heard as far as two miles away.

A bald eagle flew in and perched on a stump in the river. Birds nearby took to the air, resettling farther away. Eventually small groups began leaving for the fields followed by larger groups. The air was filled with their unique calls and the flapping of wings. The sound was astounding. Cold was forgotten as hundreds and hundreds of birds darkened the sky. Words fail me in trying to conjure up the magnificence of the experience. You just had to be there.

Often I’m so busy – taking notes, taking pictures – that I don’t take time to listen to the sounds of nature. What about you? I’d love to hear some of your experiences. If you’d like to share them, please email me – okietravel@yahoo.com.

Bernie Krause, who has studied natural soundscapes and the effects of natural disasters and human encroachment, reports that these studies provide a diagnostic tool on the health of habitats. (For more, check this site: https://ideas.ted.com/bernie-krauseshares-the-happiest-sounds-hes-heard-in-nature/. To hear the 1A podcast go to https://www.npr.org/2021/10/03/1042831854/seeing-silence-one-photographers-mission-to-find-theworlds-quietest-places.)

(Note: Photographs by Elaine Warner.)

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 13

Images of 2021

Last year’s winter was a bit more brutal than a normal year. Above, the Okla. Medical Research Foundation found its building snowed in. Left, Crest was down to two loaves of bread.

Right, ice damage on a tree in downtown Edmond. Natural gas shortages also forced ONG to buy high priced gas on the open market.

Customers will be paying it back for the next 28 years.

Page 14 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of ‘Don’t Look Up’

Condescending style hampers movie

By George Gust “Don’t Look Up” follows two low-level astronomers (Leonardo DiCaprio & Jennifer Lawrence) must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of an approaching comet that will destroy planet Earth.

Director Adam McKay has changed his perception in Hollywood from the days of making Will Ferrell broad comedies like “Anchorman” and “Step Brothers” to a biting satirical filmmaker with eyes on taking down large political and financial power structures. The Oscar buzz surrounding his 2015 film “The Big Short” gave him the license to make more high-minded satire.

“Don’t Look Up” is his latest foray in the way of cutting satire and is his most clearly messaged broadly drawn film since the earlier straight comedies. And this film, much like the earlier film “Vice,” “Don’t Look Up” works best if you’re already on board with McKay’s message, and if you’re not on board this film can get real grating real fast.

There’s no question that “Don’t Look Up” is a comment on the current political entrenchment from both sides that is exasperated by social

media and other forms of media. The satire in “Don’t Look Up” is so clear and obvious there is no room for subtlety. This makes for plenty of comedic scenes, but just as many condescending moments that leave you scratching your head.

And the frenetic editing and filmmaking style of McKay is undeniably dynamic and interesting as the film wonderfully captures the look and feel of our meme/internet culture.

Where “Don’t Look Up” is most successful is the immensely talented and deep cast of A-List Hollywood actors. Obviously DiCaprio is the leading man we all know and is engaging even

though he’s playing a less than charismatic astronomer. Lawrence brings a sardonic straight woman energy to the proceedings as a nice counterpoint to the over-the-top characterizations embodied by Meryl Streep and Jonah Hill who are dripping with snark in every scene. And when heavy hitters like Mark Rylance and Timothee Chalamet are turning in off kilter, scene-stealing performances you know you’ve got an all-star cast on your hands.

Overall, “Don’t Look Up” is mostly successful in what it was aiming to do, but that target of being a condescending satire might not work for some people. McKay once again proves that he can do more than the broad comedy, joke a minute film like “Anchorman” but his brand of satire is likely to be divisive if you’re not his target audience.

“Don’t Look Up” is rated R for language throughout, some sexual content, graphic nudity and drug content. Now available in theaters and on Netflix.

2.6 out of 5 stars You can reach George Gust to comment at gust.george@gmail.com,

PHOTO PROVIDED

Writer/Director Adam McKay brings together an all star cast in the satirical take on today's political and social media climate in Netflix's "Don't Look Up"

Answers appearing on Page 19

Don’t swamp the ER facilities As COVID-19 cases continue to increase in our state, health systems are once again feeling the burden. In addition to ongoing concerns due to the lack of ICU and inpatient hospital beds, our emergency departments are being inundated with people wanting to be COVID tested without emergent medical needs, when experiencing more mild COVIDlike symptoms. While some of these ED visits may be warranted, others are most appropriate for a COVID testing location, allowing emergency departments to conserve resources.

Emergency departments play a critical role in caring for urgent and emergent medical needs, which does include more severe COVID symptoms such as respiratory distress, severe shortness of breath or high and persistent fever. However, we need to reserve the ED’s valuable resources for those who are significantly ill.

Testing continues to be an important part in managing the spread of COVID-19, and INTEGRIS Health encourages testing if people are concerned they may have the virus. Many community testing sites are available, and many offer free PCR as well as rapid antigen tests.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: American Author ACROSS 1. Cause for a duel 5. Nelson Mandela's org.

8. "____ in the shade" 12. Andean people's chew 13. "White Wedding" singer 14. Like a haunted mansion 15. South American tuber, pl.

16. Type of cotton fiber 17. Desired forecast?

18. *"The Underground Railroad" author 20. Like West Wing office 21. Not silently 22. "When We Were Kings" subject 23. Hand over (2 words) 26. Barbecued 30. The Jackson 5 1970 hit 31. Repressed 34. "Alice Doesn't ____ Here Anymore" 35. State of dishonor 37. Three, to Caesar 38. Brightest star in Cygnus 39. Performer's time to shine 40. "No.1 Ladies Detective ____" book series 42. African migrator 43. *"The Night Watchman" author 45. *"Little Women" author 47. Poor man's caviar 48. Analyze 50. Canter or gallop 52. *"A Farewell to Arms" author 56. Latin dance 57. Club on the links 58. Kind or courteous 59. Los ____, CA 60. Round feed storage 61. Not odd 62. Colonial times laborer 63. Band performance 64. Theodores, to friends

DOWN 1. Flat-bottomed boat 2. Scottish lake 3. Antioxidants-

rich berry 4. Popular primo dish in Italian restaurant, pl.

5. Bye, to Edith Piaf 6. Wanderer 7. Garbed 8. *"Moby Dick" author 9. Length times width 10. Call someone, in the olden days 11. Poetic "ever" 13. Apple invention 14. Food contaminant 19. Run off to wed 22. Jean of Dadaism 23. Out of style 24. Find repugnant 25. Burn with coffee, e.g.

26. *Ursula K. Le ____ 27. Jargon 28. It happens at a certain time and place 29. First novel, e.g.

32. Near in space or time 33. Not a win nor a loss

36. *"Song of Solomon" author 38. *"Chronicles" author and songwriter 40. *NY Times bestselling author Atkins or playing card 41. Gambling venue 44. Smidgins 46. Young swan 48. Eagle's nest 49. Young salmon 50. *"Miss Lulu Bett" author 51. Highest adult male singing voice 52. Snake's warning 53. Take as a wife 54. Got A+ 55. Desires or cravings 56. Sticky substance

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 15

Images of 2021

The First Americans Museum, paying homage to American Indian culture, opened in September near Interstates 40 and 35 in the metro. The museum was 15 years in the making. But once opened, crowds flocked to see the various exhibits offered. Edmond architect David Hornbeek helped in the design of the unique structure.

The longtime athletic director of Edmond North High School, Tom Snider, stepped down last year after a very distinguished career, which drew recognition and praise from the Edmond School Board.

Page 16 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Mortgage Matters

Mortgage shopping tips for the new year SKYLAR’S COUR RT T

FENWICK

SOLD D! 2421 NW 194TH ST

$ $215,000

SOLD PRICE $22 25,000 TOWNE SQUARE TO

17201 Wa ales Grreen e

$399,900

Looking fo or a turn-key hom me for the holidays? y This is it! 4 beds, 3.5 baths, study,, large bonus room o upstairs, 3 car garage with storm shelter - all in this freshly painted home! So much has recently been replaced - interior and exterior pain nt, Class IV roof and decking (2021), shades, chandeliers, all downstairs windows, sprinkler system, surveillance system - and so much morre!

W WILL OWWOOD

3309 Clock To ower

$150,000

416 Belm mont

$380,000

HAPPY NEWYEAR! Start 2022 in this fabulous bungalo ow in sought after Town Square! So much greatness e packeed into this super stylish h home - new neutral paint, super bright kitchen with stainless appliances, largee basin sink and granite GSYRXIVXXSTW HSYFPI *VIRGL HSSVW PIEHMRK MRXS SJJ½GI FYMPX MR GEFMRIXV] MR IRXV][E]] [SSH ERH XMPI ¾SSVW WTIGXEGYPEV PMKLX ½\XYVIW XLVSYKLSYX ERH E PEVKI covered e front o por p cch with swingg to ggreet e yo our gguests!

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Maxim mize Y Yo our Mo oney

CALL THE BRAD B RE EESER TEAM TODA AY Y! NEW LIS STINGS ACCEPTED! C CALL US AT

3 330-2626 6 HUNTERS CREEK K

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SOLD D!

SO OLD!

3901 Hunters Creek

TA A AVE V $589,900 2201 AUGUST

$399,900

SOLD PRICE $5 590,000

SOLD PRICE P $420,000

BELLE POINTE

RA AMBLING HILLS

SOLD D!

SO OLD!

2710 Dupont

$695,000

SOLD PRICE $715,390 OFFICE FOR LEASE

OKC

2553 S Kelly Ave # 100 - $6,000/Mo Commercial Trriple Net Lease 3 year minimum. Built & parXMEPP] JYVRMWLIH JSV 1IHMGEPP SJ½GI WTEGI [MXL I\EQ GLEMMVW

[EMXMRK VSSQ JYVRMXYVI 3J½GI MRGPYHIW I\EQ VSSQW [EMXMRK VSSQ (SGXSVW SJ½GI FEXLVSSQW HSGXSVW IQployees, & patients), nursing station, kitchenette tt ,overhead radio d system t by SSonos ready d for activation.

3213 NW W 35TH - $224,900 Make this your DIY home project for an EXTREME MAKEO KEOVER! R! G Greatt style t l good d bones, b desirable neighborhood,AND ND D just j t replaced l d the h roof (Dec. 2021)!

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SOLD PRICE P $370,000 LARGE CORNER LOT

2.85 ACRES!

- 3800 Wolf o Creek Cir -

4260 N Boulevard- $399,900

Large corner lot (1.18 acre) in the desirable Auggusta Farms Approximately 2.85 Acres at the NW corner of neighborhood! Bring your own builder and build d the home of Coffee Creek and Broadway, just north of the water your dreams in this fabulous neighborhood! Witth easy access to tower. Property zoned F1, Light Industrial. Don’t miss I35 get anywhere in Edmond and the OKC metrro quickly!

this opportunity! t

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3001 Lakeshire Ridge Way - $135,000

Bring your ow wner builder and build the house of your o dreeams on this fabulous lot.

TIMBERDALE

SEL LL YOUR HOM ME W WITH BRAD!

RUSTIC CREEK

SOLD!

2300 Rustic Creek - $350,000 Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the fabulous backyard on the wood deck - so peaceful! Home backs up to 6.8 acres of gorgeous trees. HOA takes care of the front yard - mows, edges, weeds, trims, and fer e ttilizes - No yard work required!

$339,900

2604 Little Timber

SOLD! 506 SUNNY BROOK - $399,900

SOLD PRICE $411,000 $411 000 IRON HORSE RANCH

NEW W LISTING NG GS ACCEPTE ED! C CALL US U S AT

330-2626

SOLD! 4108 High Range Ln- $ $525,000

SOLD PRICE $525,000

L TS & ACREAGES LO 3100 Basanova Drive - $85,000 - Oldee Edmond Lot Great neighborhood in Edmond. Build your drream home here!

3208 Basanova Drrive - $118,900 - Olde Edmond - East Edmond - Cul-de-sac lot!

3000 Basanova Drive - $122,500 - Old de Edmond • East Edmond - Cul-de-sac lot

4260 N Boulevard 2.85 - Acres! $399,900 Approximately 2.85 Accres at the NW corner of Coffeee Creek and Broadway, y, just norrth of the water tower. Property zoned F1, Light Industrial. Don’t miss m this opportunity!

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By Kenneth Wohl RCB Bank The new year traditionally is a time of reflection and resolutions. If one of your resolutions is to buy a house this year, here are some tips that will help that Wohl resolution become a reality.

Improve your credit score If you have any debts or credit card balances, work on eliminating them or paying them down. Even if completely eliminating your debt isn’t possible, paying it down could increase your credit score – and even a small boost can mean lower interest rates on a mortgage. Also, paying these off might feel good, but don’t close those accounts as that could lower your score if you eliminate the positive reporting tradeline.

Avoid big purchases Sure, you might need new appliances and new furniture in your new house. But wait until after you’ve closed on your mortgage before pulling the trigger on those purchases. Spending money on big-ticket items decreases your available cash – which is key in the home-buying process. Or if you use your credit card or take out a store line of credit to pay for it, it could hurt your credit score.

Save, save, save Save every penny you can. Having money saved for a down payment and closing costs can majorly help you in the loan process. The more

money you have in savings, the better. Evaluate your spending habits – if you eat out for lunch every day, bring your lunch instead and save the difference. If you stop for coffee a few times a week, skip it and save that money, too. These small things will add up over time.

Research lenders Finding the right mortgage professional will make the process much easier. Your lender will be your mortgage resource and will help you every step of the way to bring your resolution to fruition. It also will be important to get preapproved for your mortgage, which the lender will help with as well.

Determine what you want in a house Just what specifics do you want in your home? Do you want to live closer to work, or in a specific school district? These are the things that are good to know ahead of time, and they will help you narrow down available houses. And then, start looking!

Making a resolution and sticking to it always is fulfilling. And if buying a house is on your resolution list this year, these steps should help make the process much easier.

Opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of Kenneth Wohl and meant for generic illustration purposes only. With approved credit.

For specific questions regarding your personal lending needs, please call RCB Bank at 855-BANK-RCB. Some restrictions apply. RCB Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and member FDIC. RCB Bank NMLS #798151.

Kenneth Wohl NMLS #453934.

Study: Obesity linked to some COVID issues

By Brian Attebery This time of year we hear a lot of emphasis on getting weight off. Yes, losing weight is probably the #1 New Year’s Resolution for many. People want their pants smaller and the Attebery next smallest dress size to occur sooner than later. A lot of emphasis is placed on the “look” of being slim but we need to look at the more serious aspects of being overweight and why this is a very serious matter that you shouldn’t just focus on for 2-3 months and then quit.

It is a well-documented fact that there are 33 major illnesses associated with obesity. High blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, high-triglycerides, and Type II diabetes to name a few. With the prevalence of obesity doubling in the last 75 years, it is no wonder our health care system is out of control with costs. It costs way more to “weigh” more. While all we seem to hear about in the news about covid is the vaccine or masking, a recent study from UCLA came out highlighting that the primary cause of hospitalizations and death for Covid patients beyond age was being obese. Age we can’t control. Our weight we can.

Obesity is considered a preventable disease. Your New Year’s goals of weight loss should be taken much more seriously because obesity has shown us another reality.

The study was done by Zhaoping Li, M.D. and Vijaya Surampudi which are assistant professors out of the Division of Human Nutrition at UCLA discovered many issues with obesity and Covid-19. In the study they sited issues with Inflammation that are

common with Covid patients but noted that people that are obese have a greater amount of inflammation in their bodies. This in turn places the body on high alert inhibiting the immune response to a body that is already in an inflamed state.

In addition, they noted that extra weight around the mid-section inhibits the ability to optimally expand the lungs and chest expansion due to the extra weight on the body.

In their review, Dr. Li and Dr. Surampudi cited one study that tracked 393 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Obesity was the primary risk factor among the patients that required mechanical ventilation. It was also discovered that respiratory failure was more common among patients that were classified as obese.

This disease isn’t about politics. It is about health. There should not be any controversy in taking steps to make sure that your body has the best chance of fighting this disease.

There are multiple other studies that site increases in Killer T Cells (specific white blood cells) that fight this virus amongst others that have shown major increases from exercise whether you are overweight or not.

Exercise helps lower the severity and death rate of covid. This New Year needs to be a greater focus on sticking with it. Not just so you look better in those new jeans or dress but so you can have a better quality of life and an immune system that is optimal. Take it step by step and day by day knowing that it will be challenging but you can do it. You MUST do it. Your Trainer believes in you. Stay focused. Happy New Year!

(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 • January 6, 2022 • Page 17

Helps to keep students in school

AT&T backs Francis Tuttle Tech Center program The AT&T Foundation is granting $20,000 to Francis Tuttle Technology Center’s Project HOPE, which serves high school students who have dropped out of school or who are in danger of dropping out. The money will help provide Project HOPE students with financial aid that they can use towards transportation and any other obstacles that would otherwise prevent them from attending school.

The pandemic presented new and challenging obstacles for high school students. Most of the high schools Francis Tuttle serves offered both virtual and non-virtual days this past year. Francis Tuttle modified teaching strategies to help meet the needs of students to attend school virtually.

The virtual/in-class model has shown to be difficult for some students due to lack of internet at home and/or transportation to class.

Francis Tuttle also provided mo-

bile Wi-Fi to students who have no access to internet. Even with internet access, students in a virtual environment are not performing at the level of their peers and are not logging into class as often. Many are choosing work over school to help their families since they cannot log on without internet.

“Lack of internet or lack of transportation caused some students to drop out last year. When faced with limited finances, necessities such as food, utilities and rent take precedence over school,” said Lori Alspaugh, Executive Director Francis Tuttle Foundation, Inc. “When we lessen the burden by paying for these necessities, students can use that money to get to school, complete a program and enter the workforce.”

With this grant from AT&T Foundation, Francis Tuttle will be able to

See AT&T, Page 18

Francis Tuttle Foundation Vice President Jan Moran, left, and President Frank Turner present a check for $20,000 to Francis Tuttle Technology Center Project HOPE. The money was donated by the AT&T Foundation. Project HOPE supports high school students who have dropped out or are at risk of dropping out but want to continue pursuing an education. Every student in the photo is now on track to earn their high school degree or equivalency.

The new-look Dunkin’ opens in Edmond

The new look Dunkin’ drive thur is open in west Edmond.

It is the first such Dunkin in Oklahoma.

Dunkin’ has opened its doors to its first ever Next Gen drive-thru only restaurant, the first in Oklahoma, located at 16321 N May Ave. in Edmond. The drive-thru only Dunkin’ restaurant offers a drive-thru and a convenient walkup window to serve guests and allow people who live and work in Oklahoma City to run on Dunkin’ faster and more conveniently than ever before.

In celebration of Oklahoma’s new Next Gen drive-thru only restaurant, an official grand opening celebration will be held in this month.

More details to be shared in the coming weeks.

The new Next Gen drive-thru only restau-

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Edmond attorneys honored Five Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys from Edmond have been named as Best Lawyers® 2022 Lawyer of the Year and another Edmond attorney has been named to the publication’s Ones to Watch list.

Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys from Edmond receiving Lawyer of the Year recognition include Harvey D. Ellis, Jr. in the Appellate Practice category, Arlen E. Fielden for Workers' Compensation Law – Employers, Richard C. Ford for Antitrust Law, Joel W. Harmon in Commercial Transactions / UCC Law and John M. Thomp-

son for Commercial Finance Law. Andrew E. Henry was named to the publication’s Ones to Watch list for Commercial Litigation.

Lawyer of the Year recognition is awarded to individual lawyers with the highest overall peer-feedback for a specific practice area and geographic region. Best Lawyers lists are compiled based on an exhaustive peer-review evaluation and lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed. Only one lawyer is recognized for each practice specialty and location.

Good times seen for oil & gas industry Oklahoma's recently re-energized oil and gas industry appears poised to grow more during the coming year after passing through 18 months of financial and regulatory challenges.

The industry, a significant driver of Oklahoma's economy and financial contributor to the state's tax revenues stream, had 48 rigs drilling wells across the state the week before Christmas — more than three

times the number that were active the same time a year earlier.

Recent acquisitions, including one worth $419 million by an Alabama company to acquire a significant amount of mature, producing assets across the state from Tapstone Energy, signals investors remain interested in producing the state's natural resources, as well.

—- Oklahoman.com

rant is the first of its kind in Oklahoma and offers a look at Dunkin’s Next Gen store of the future experience. Exciting elements of the new restaurant experience at 16321 N May Ave include: • Modern Design: The openness, colors, and energy efficient materials used in the design help to create an approachable, positive, and energetic environment.

• Premium Pours: Crew members will use top-quality flavor-maximizing espresso machines to make hand-crafted drinks to order.

The new 1,000 square-foot Oklahoma City location opens at 5 AM daily and employs 15 crew members.

Page 18 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

AT&T From Page 17 serve all the students currently enrolled in the HOPE program that need to be on-campus for their programs. The funds will be used to pay for transportation to and from Francis Tuttle via bus, Uber, gas cards, and several bikes will also be purchased with the funds.

“The AT&T Foundation is dedicated to providing educational resources to those who need it most,” said Jan Moran, Area Manager of External Affairs AT&T Oklahoma, and Vice President Francis Tuttle Foundation, Inc. “It is important that our students are equipped with the resources necessary to help them succeed in school and beyond. We are proud to partner with Francis Tuttle’s Project HOPE and look forward to helping these students stay on track.”

Francis Tuttle supports an enroll-

ment of more than 3,200 students across four campuses. High school students from six different school districts and 400 adult students commute from across the metro to attend classes.

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities and improving lives. AT&T Connected Learning is a multi-year commitment to bridge the digital divide and narrow the homework gap, so today’s learners are connected with skills, resources, and opportunities for success in school and in life. Since 2008, we’ve committed $600 million to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities

Francis Tuttle supports an enrollment of more than 3,200 students across four campuses.

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Edmond Life & Leisure • January 6, 2022 • Page 19

City of Edmond seeks input from citizens about traffic The City of Edmond is seeking input from residents regarding traffic in the community. Over the next two weeks, a special web map will be available for residents to share their top three traffic hot spots.

“We know from consistent resident feedback that traffic remains their number one concern,” said City Manager Larry Stevens. “We are asking for their help in capturing this specific, location-based information. Their input is vital in assisting our continued ef-

forts to improve traffic flow.”

Respondents can participate by visiting https://gis.edmondok.com/traffic and pinpointing their top three hot spots on a map. This can be done any time through Sunday, Jan 16.

Contact information is not required to complete the brief questionnaire, and participants will remain anonymous.

Once the results have been tabulated and finalized, they will be shared with the public.

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Page 20 • January 6, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure