Edmond Life and Leisure - April 1, 2021

April 1, 2021

Vol. 21, No. 46

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

A $65 million school issue on May ballot

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.

UCO football returns See page 5

Renderings by the Stacy Group, LWPB Architecture and JHBR Architecure

FRIDAY, April 2

Mostly Sunny High 67° Low 49°

SATURDAY, April 3 Sunny High 75° Low 53°

SUNDAY, April 4

Partly Cloudy High 77° Low 59°

Passage of May 11, 2021, Edmond Public Schools bond issue would fund the construction of a freshman academy classroom addition at Edmond Memorial High School, the renovation of the Edmond North High School Siberian Gym and construction of a classroom addition and renovations to the freshman academy at Edmond Santa Fe High School. Bond funds would also pay for the construction of a new media center at Cross Timbers Elementary School. Passage of the bond is not expected to raise taxes The Edmond Board of Education voted at its March board meeting to bring before patrons a $65 million bond issue on Tuesday, May 11, to fund school additions, purchase land for future schools and make repairs and upgrades to existing facilities.

“In constructing this bond proposal we were mindful of balancing the considerable needs of our older schools with the immediate needs of those schools which have experienced steady growth in student population,” said Superintendent Bret Towne.

Five and a half million of the bond issue would be earmarked to update the cabinets, doors, restrooms, ceilings, and lighting at nine elementary schools…fixtures original to their sites. New roofing, flooring, and HVAC systems at several school sites are also part of the bond proposal

as is constructing and/or resurfacing parking lots at numerous schools.

“Keeping our schools updated positively impacts the learning environment for students and improves the culture and climate of our schools,” noted Towne.

The bond issue includes $3 million to construct a new media center at Cross Timbers Elementary and renovate the old media center into classrooms. Other noteworthy construction projects include more than $3 million for a classroom addition at Santa Fe High School, $3.2 million to construct a freshman academy classroom addition and renovate the industrial arts building at Edmond Memorial High School, and $1.4 million to construct a new building for Ag Engineering and Mechanics.

“As we continue to grow, we must add new classrooms to accom-

modate the expected increase in student population,” noted Towne.

Two new schools being built by the district, Redbud Elementary and Scissortail Elementary are expected to open at capacity. Included in this bond proposal is $8 million for classroom additions to both schools, which are scheduled to open in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

“By approving this bond proposal, voters will help to ensure that the district can plan for future additions to these schools that are located in fast-growing areas,” said Towne.

Passage of the bond issue is not planned to raise homeowner’s taxes. The district has planned this bond issue to keep the millage level stable at between 24 and 25 mills.

The timing of bond sales will coincide with the retirement of existing continued on Page 3

Page 2 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 3

Top marks for UCO program

Cover From Page 1 bonds to support the district’s objective of sustaining a stable millage rate.

All registered voters who live within Edmond Public School district boundaries qualify to vote including those residents who live outside the city limits of Edmond. Individuals should vote at their regular precincts.

The breakdown of the May 11, 2021 bond issue is as follows: Proposition #1 $63,700,000 School Upgrades and Additions School Security Curriculum and Technology Land for Future Schools School Additions: Construct classroom additions to Redbud Elementary and Scissortail Elementary. $8,000,000 Technology: Purchase and install computers, digital devices, software, wireless networking equipment, phone systems, and technology support services. $7,500,000 School Improvements: Improve/upgrade cabinets, doors, restrooms, ceilings, and lights at the following elementary schools: Northern Hills, Sunset, Ida Freeman, Orvis Risner, Charles Haskell, Chisholm, Russell Dougherty, Will Rogers and Clegern. $5,500,000 HVAC: Improve or replace HVAC systems at Sequoyah Middle School, Russell Dougherty Elementary School and Santa Fe High School $5,000,000 Parking Lots/Roads: Construct, and/or resurface existing parking lots and access roads at the following elementary schools: Chisholm, Northern Hills, Angie Debo, Orvis Risner, Russell Dougherty, West Field, Charles Haskell as well as at Summit and Cheyenne Middle Schools and Memorial and Santa Fe High Schools. $4,750,000 Curriculum and Equipment: Purchase fine arts and athletic equipment for secondary schools, library/media center books, software subscriptions, instructional equipment, child nutrition and operations equipment, and school support vehicles. $4,650,000 Purchase Land: Buy land for the site

of a new elementary school and purchase properties to expand selected school sites as needed. $4,500,000 North High School: Renovate the Siberian gymnasium. $3,500,000 Memorial High School: Construct freshman academy classroom addition/storm shelter and renovate the industrial arts building. $3,200,000 Santa Fe High School: Construct classroom addition, renovate freshman academy. $3,150,000 Roofing: Replace roofs of Russell Dougherty Elementary and Santa Fe High School. $3,000,000 Cross Timbers Elementary Media Center: Construct a new media center and renovate the former media center into classrooms. $3,000,000 Classroom Furnishings: Purchase student desks, and chairs. $2,000,000 Playgrounds: Improve playgrounds as needed with new equipment and impact materials. $2,000,000 FFA Facilities: Construct a new building for Ag Engineering and Mechanics. $1,400,000 School Security: Improve/upgrade security to include electronic security & door control devices, student/staff photo ID badges and card reader systems, and video surveillance camera systems. $750,000 School Flooring: Replace flooring as needed at Ida Freeman Elementary, West Field Elementary, and Centennial Elementary. $700,000 Marquees and Directional Signage: Update or replace existing marquees and exterior school signage. $700,000 Gymnasium Flooring: Replace gymnasium flooring at the following elementary schools: Chisholm, Ida Freeman, Cross Timbers, and John Ross. $400,000 Proposition #2 $1,300,000 Transportation Vehicles: Purchase small and large buses and high-capacity sport utility vehicles.

UCO Adult Education Master Program Ranked Among Top in Nation The University of Central Oklahoma is ranked as a top institution for the Master of Education in adult and higher education - talent development degree according to a recent national ranking by GreatBusinessSchools.org. Central ranked 16 out of 25 and is the only higher education institution in the state recognized on the list.

Programs were ranked according to tuition cost, salary potential and overall student satisfaction.

"This national ranking showcases the strengths of our applied major where students gain practical knowledge and the skills required to develop training environments that foster employee learning and engagement," said Michelle Johnson, Ph.D., assistant professor and coordinator of the talent development program at Central.

"It is the unique mix of experience and scholarship that prepares our graduates to become highly qualified talent development professionals dedicated to the personal growth of employees."

The talent development program at Central provides students with the skills needed to work in industry training or government service-oriented environments, including public school adult programs, career technology education, corporate training and nonprofit community services programs.

In addition to the talent development program, Central offers master’s degree programs in adult and higher education-lifelong and e-learning, adult and higher education-interdisciplinary studies and adult and higher education-student personnel.

For more information contact Rachel Baugh at 405-974-5408 or rbaugh@uco.edu.

Page 4 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Vote Miller for Edmond City Council This coming Tuesday, April 6, 2021, is the most important opportunity for folks to get out and vote. Local elections are more important than any national or state election. The folks you will be voting Ray Hibbard for on this coming Tuesday will affect your day-to-day life much more then who is sitting in the Whitehouse.

It is the final round of votes for our Edmond City Council where there are three positions open and one seat for our Edmond School Board. You will be picking the tip of the spear for what matter most to us and how our city and school system will be run. Nothing could be more important and yet there will only be a fraction of the voters from last November’s presidential election that turn out to vote.

Feel free to disagree with my endorsements but do not let that stop you from voting. Unlike in the primary election last February, the entire city will be able to vote for city council members and of course for mayor.

The school board position will only be for Edmond School Board Office 1 residents to vote.

Please do not be fooled by one issue candidates. Defending your “personal freedom” is a red flag to me.

These folks talked in the forums about wanting to keep Edmond a great place to live. What they failed to do was demonstrate any details on those plans. During their speeches they just kept repeating slogans. Folks, serving on the council or school board is work and is not the place for on-the-job training. Our picks for these seats either have a great amount of experience in getting city work done or have demonstrated the ability to serve in such a capacity. Their opponents have not, period.

Yes, we all want to be free and believe in our nation. Serving on city council or our school board is about making things run on time and work correctly. It is much more of a nutsand-bolts approach in addition to having vision for our city. We need experience and attention to detail. It is much different than the rhetoric from state and national politics.

Our pick for Ward 4 is David Miller.

We announced this last August when he decided to run for this office which he held for many years. It is the seat currently held by Nick Massey who decided to not run again for that office.

Miller served on the council from

David MIller

2001 to 2012 and honestly, these were some of the best years for council leadership. Miller was a big part of that leadership. During that time, he served not only as a council member but as Mayor ProTem under Charles Lamb. He also served on the EEDA Board of Directors, chaired the Public Works Committee, served as Edmond Electric representative to APPA Policy Makers Committee and currently still serves on the Edmond Capital Improvement Projects Advisory Board.

Miller has lived in Edmond since 1995 and has three daughters who are grown and married. He has three grandsons and Miller and his bride, Marsha, have been married for 36 years. He is currently employed at Heartland Payment Systems who have been a great corporate citizen in Edmond.

When I asked him why he wants to serve on the council again, he said, "I want to run because I believe my experience is needed, especially now. I also still have the same passion for Edmond I had before. I want to give while I can and while I can still make a difference in the environment my grandchildren will grow up in, like my daughters, I want them to want to stay in Edmond.”

There is a lack of leadership at the city, state and certainly the national level. Miller was an excellent leader when he served on the council previously and there is no doubt that he would make a great addition to the leadership of current council members David Chapman and Josh Moore.

Miller understands that it takes

more than lofty ideas to make improvements. We all want great things for our community, but it takes knowledge about how to get things done and paid for too. He always took a business-like approach to helping run the city. Many of the features we now enjoy in Edmond had their beginnings when he served on the council. He works with people and understands the nuts and bolts of getting things done. It takes more than good wishes to make them happen. Miller is the candidate that can do that, and his experience is needed on our city council.

He is a perfect fit for the right time.

Christin Mugg would be our choice for Ward 3. She took the time to come by and visit with me and that shows she understands the importance of a truly locally owned and operated newspaper for Edmond. We have also seen her in action during the many candidate forums that were held. Unlike her opponent, she understood the issue and knew the details that go into them. She has established herself as an active member of the Edmond Community. She grew up in Oklahoma City and attended Putnam City North High School. After high school, Christin received a BA in Letters and an MBA from the University of Oklahoma. After five years in the workforce, Christin decided to go back to school and pursued her Juris Doctorate at Oklahoma City University School of Law. At OCU, Christin served as the Editor in Chief of the Law Review and graduated first in her class.

After graduating from law school in

1998, Christin moved to Edmond and began her career as an associate attorney with an Oklahoma City law firm and focused her practice on estate planning and tax law. In 2005 Christin established her own law firm in Edmond and added charitable planning to her estate planning and tax law practice. She knew Edmond was the best place to grow her business and her family. She is passionate about helping her clients carry out their wishes and minimize costs, delays, and difficulties upon illness and passing. She wants to bring this same passion to Edmond’s City Council, but she also brings attention to details and that is where the rubber meets the road in city government.

Christin lives in Edmond with the rest of her extended family. Both of her children are proud Edmond Public school alumni and have both decided to further their education. Her husband, Chris, works in IT at UCO. Christin attends First Christian Church of Edmond For the Edmond Mayor’s race, we are casting our vote for Darrell Davis who has served as an Edmond City Councilman for 10 years and he also spent time serving as chair of the Edmond Parks and Recreation board from 1996 to 2011. Becoming mayor is a natural step for Davis and it is a great advantage for residents who would have leadership that knows how to get things done. He is also no stranger to new ideas.

Davis works as a contract manager and he teaches businesses classes at the university level. Like Miller, Davis has a track record of making good decisions and understanding the need for quality growth here in Edmond.

We hope voters will put him in office as mayor this Tuesday.

For Edmond School Board Office 1 our pick is Lee Ann Kuhlman the incumbent for the seat. Lee Ann has done a great job and we expect the continued excellence from our Edmond School system with Lee Ann remaining on the board.

She has held the position for the last 10 years with much valuable education experience prior to running for school board. Our Edmond Public Schools are among the best in the country so we should keep folks like Kuhlman in place.

There you have our choices, but we encourage you to vote for your candidate. In a city race with historically low turnout even a few votes can make the difference.

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure may be reached by email at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

---- Council drops mask ordinance ....................................................Page 6.

---- Police booking report ..................................................................Page 8.

---- A breakthrough in ovarian cancer treatment ................................Page 9.

---- A judge who understands America’s problems ..........................Page 10.

---- Elaine Warner looks at Wales ....................................................Page 12.

---- George Gust review of four-hour movie ....................................Page 14.

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

---- What’s happening ......................................................................Page 15.

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

Happy Easter this Sunday

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2021 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 • April 1, 2021 • Page 5

497 days later, UCO plays football

Broncho QB J D Geneva (7) hands off the ball to RB Payton Scott (33)

QB J D Geneva (7) looks down field for an open receiver,.

The University of Central Oklahoma football team defeated Southern Nazarene, 30-26 in an exhibition game Saturday Wantland Stadium. It was the first of two Broncho exhibitions this spring.

Following the cancellation of Central's 2020 fall season, the NCAA permitted schools to play a limited schedule in the spring. The Bronchos will host SNU this Saturday before hosting Oklahoma Baptist April 10.

"We're just grateful for the opportunity to play," UCO head football coach Nick Bobeck said. "We're thankful to everyone that played a role in getting us back on the field. To everyone who did their part. We hope that we can use this spring to get better and to help us get back to game speed. It's been a long time since these kids played a football game so we plan on easing back into it and getting a better idea of where we're at."

Admission is free for the game Saturday. Saturday’s game marked marked the first football game for Central since Nov. 16, 2019. It was 497 days between games for the Bronchos.

UCO Broncho DB Dontez Fagan (37) stops QB Gage Porter (14) of SNU Crimson Storm with a hard tackle.

Photos by Melinda Infante

Broncho TE Daunte McGee catches the ball for a nice gain.

Page 6 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Pedestrian deaths up during pandemic year A new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) projects that the U.S. pedestrian fatality rate rose 20% in the first six months of 2020 as speeding, distracted and impaired driving, and other dangerous driving behaviors increased during the COVID19 pandemic.

GHSA’s annual Spotlight on Highway Safety offers the first comprehensive look at state and national trends in 2020 pedestrian traffic deaths, based on preliminary data provided by State Highway Safety Offices in all 50 states and the District of Columbia (D.C.). The analysis found that from January through June 2020, 2,957 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle crashes – six more than the same period in 2019.

Factoring in a 16.5% reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) nationwide, the rate of drivers striking and killing pedestrians jumped to 2.2 deaths per billion VMT, a significant and unsettling increase from 1.8 deaths the year before.

If this troubling pattern continues for the second half of the year as many traffic safety experts fear, 2020 is projected to have the largest ever annual increase in the U.S. pedestrian fatality rate per mile driven.

GHSA will held a news briefing for media to discuss the report's findings earlier this month.

“Walking should not be a life and death undertaking, yet many factors have combined to put pedestrians at historical levels of risk,” said GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins.

“The traffic safety community should focus on a comprehensive approach that uses every tool available to save lives, including engineering, community outreach, emergency response and equitable enforcement that prioritizes the prevention of driving behaviors – like speeding, distraction and impairment – that pose the greatest threats to non-motorized road users.”

The GHSA report also examines 2019 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), finding that pedestrians accounted for 17% of all traffic deaths in 2019, compared to 13% in 2010. While pedestrian deaths have risen by 46% over the past decade, the number of all other traffic deaths has increased by only 5%. Although advancements in motor vehicle safety and technology have increased survivability for vehicle occupants involved in crashes, pedestrians are not so protected and remain susceptible to serious or fatal injuries when struck by a motor vehicle.

The 2019 FARS data analysis highlights numerous factors related to pedestrian fatalities. Key findings include: •Drivers struck and killed a larger proportion of Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) traveling on foot than expected based on their respective share of the population, while people on foot classified as white/non-Hispanic accounted for a considerably smaller proportion based on population. This reinforces the need for racial equity to be a centerpiece of comprehensive pedestrian safety action plans.

•Most pedestrians are killed on local roads, in the dark and away from intersections, suggesting the need for safer road crossings and increased efforts to make pedestrians more visible through improved lighting and other countermeasures. During the past 10 years, the number of drivers striking and killing a pedestrian after dark increased by 54%, compared to a 16% rise in pedestrian fatalities in daylight.

•Alcohol impairment by the driver and/or pedestrian was reported in nearly half of traffic crashes that resulted in a pedestrian fatality.

•Although passenger cars are the largest category of vehicles in fatal pedestrian crashes, the number of pedestrian deaths over the past decade in crashes involving sport utility vehicles (SUVs) increased at a faster rate – 69% – than deaths in crashes involving passenger cars, which increased by 46%. As light truck and SUV sales continue to climb, the likelihood increases of pedestrians being struck by a larger and more dangerous vehicle.

Despite the alarming projected increase in the pedestrian death rate per mile driven in the first half of 2020, the report identifies progress in some state-reported data. For example, 20 states and D.C. saw declines in the number of pedestrians killed by drivers for the first half of 2020 compared to 2019, with nine states reporting double-digit decreases and two states reporting three consecutive years of decreases. The report also highlights proven strategies employed at the state and local level, including engineering and road design, high visibility and automated enforcement, pedestrian safety assessments and road safety audits, and education directed to children and crash bystanders.

The full report, including infographics and state-by-state data, is available on the GHSA website. Richard Retting of Sam Schwartz Consulting conducted the data analysis.

Council allows mask ordinance to expire The Edmond City Council has allowed the face covering ordinance within the city limits to expire.

Effective at midnight on Tuesday, March 23rd, the ordinance that required all people age eleven and over to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces, is no longer be in effect.

However, all residents are still highly encouraged to follow CDC safety guidelines that include washing hands, social distancing and wearing of masks.

Businesses and establishments are not required to post a mask policy for their location. However, if a business or establishment does post that they require masks in their facility, all residents are asked to comply.

Additionally, the City Council voted to extend the current Declaration of Emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic through Tuesday, April 27th. The extended Declaration of Emergency removes several previous requirements and aligns closely with Governor Kevin Stitt's Declaration of Emergency.

The updated information will be available on Tuesday, March 23rd, at https://edmondok.com/coronavirus.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 7

Redbud gets new race director The Redbud Classic, Oklahoma City’s esteemed running and cycling tradition, recently brought on Kristin Hersom as its new race director to help further the Redbud Classic’s mission of bringing fun, fitness and philanthropy to the Oklahoma City community.

“I am overjoyed to join such a beloved tradition within our community,” Hersom said. “We’re already hard at work to bring the Redbud Classic spirit back to Oklahoma City, and I look forward to the months ahead as we approach our upcoming race weekend in September.”

Hersom received a Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology and health studies and has a depth of experience in fitness programming, event development, leadership of teams and building strong, collaborative partnerships with stakeholders and sponsors within the community.

“I know Kristin will do a fantastic job in her new role,” Redbud Classic Board President Nathan Elliott said. “I am very confident in her skills and work ethic, and I cannot wait to see what all she will accomplish as race director.”

The 2021 Redbud Classic is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Sept. 11 and Sunday, Sept.

12, 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Redbud Classic was canceled.

The 2021 Redbud Classic was originally scheduled for April, but in an effort to ensure the safest environment for participants, volunteers and spectators, the board of directors chose to postpone the event to September.

The Redbud Classic has raised more than $900,000 for local non-profits in Oklahoma since its inaugural race in 1983 and is

Kristin Hersom

continuing to partner with Oklahoma City Police Athletic League as its 2021 beneficiary to provide race participants with the opportunity to help students create a healthy, active lifestyle and receive quality mentorship from the community’s local heroes.

Registration is open for the 2021 Redbud Classic. Those currently registered for the April 2021 race have been rolled over to the postponed date. For more information, visit redbud.org.

About Redbud Classic Since 1983, the Redbud Clas-

sic has become an Oklahoma City tradition involving the community through fitness, fun and philanthropy. The race offers a 10-Mile Bike Tour, 30-, 40- and 50-Mile Timed Bike Events as well as 5K and 10K races. Other events include a 5K Wheelchair Event, 2-Mile Walk and Baby Stroller Derby, a 1-Mile Kids’ Fun Run and the 1-Mile Woof Walk.

Each year, Redbud Classic selects a local non-profit as the race beneficiary, raising more than $900,000 for local charitable organizations since the race’s inception.

Page 8 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Police booking report (The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

March 15 Jonatan Martinez-Pena, 29 of Edmond. Charged with obstruction of an officer and felony DUI/APC. Nevaeh Leshaun Yearby, 19 of Oklahoma City. False representation to an office and possession of marijuana.

Chrishawn Lamont Hughes, 18 of Oklahoma City. (Anything other than alcohol) operate (DUI orAPC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Jeremiah David Kruschik, 29 of Guthrie. Felony warrant and six misdemeanor warrants and false representation to an officer.

Crystal Dawn Nichols, 39 of Oklahoma City. Charge of second degree murder.

Gregory James Carr, 27, homeless.

Petty larceny.

March 16 Devan Moco Cox, 38 of Del City.

Possession of a license required -- notification to police of a gun, operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and possession of a firearm after the conviction of a felony.

John Edward Jones, 33, homeless.

Failure to appear.

Isaiah Lamar Coulter, 29, homeless. Illegal entrance.

Deandre Martez Franklin, 33 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and two counts of failure to appear.

March 17 Nathan Rchard Gray, 37 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Betty Ann Goodwin, 55 of Ada. Public intoxication.

John Colin Campbell, 28 of Harrah. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .8 or more.

Amber Dawn Harris, 27 of Edmond. Operate (DUI orAPC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .15 or more.

March 18 Brady Dwayne Plumlee, 27 of Midwest City. Public intoxication.

Edward Anthony Runnels, 38 homeless. Trespassing after being forbidden.

Hayley Lynn Rogers, 55 of Springfield, Tenn. Petty larceny.

March 19 Lance Alvin Dorn, 58 of Edmond.

Possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS.

Amine Mohamed Lamrani, 25 of Norman. Driving while license is suspended, canceled, denied or revoked and speeding 11 to 14 mph over.

March 20 Aaliyah Ameera Rashad, 19 of Edmond. Operating (DUI orAPC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or a combination of chemical or controlled substance.

Clinton Robert, 27 of Edmond. Operate of a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license and six counts of failure to appear.

Brett Mason Vanhorn, 30 of Upper Sandusky, Ohio. Possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS. Aaron Matthew Duehning, 28 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS. Delbert Herod Bass Jr, 51 homeless. Obstruction of a police officer and breaking and entering.

April Christine Calkins, 40 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant, obstruction of a police officer and breaking and entering.

Brandy Patrick Rocky, 36, homeless. Non-assault resisting a police officer. Non-assault resisting of a police officer and failure to appear.

Travis Lee Shaw, 43 of Oklahoma City. Possession of ID cards not issued to a person, two counts of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Christopher Vikram Moreau, 24 of Edmond. Operate (DUI orAPC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or a combination of chemical or CDS. March 21 Michael Angelo Smith, 32 of Edmond. (Drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution and two counts of failure to appear.

Jaeln Macau Daniels, 18 of Oklahoma City. Possession of marijuana and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended denied or revoked.

Quinton Dewaun Murphy, 34, of Tulsa. Possession of firearm with defaced serial or identification number during the commission of a felony.

Quiton Lee Murphy, 31 of Edmond. Possession of a firearm after a felony conviction.

Demontray Trayon Marzette, 28 of Oklahoma City. Four counts of failure to appear.

Trevor Wade Evans, 22 of Konawa, Okla. Child endangerment and (anything other than alcohol) operate (DUI orAPC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Cory Robert Selbe, 34 of Newalla.

Petty larceny.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 9

Breakthrough in ovarian cancer treatment?

A scientist at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation has discovered a targeted therapy that could improve treatment and long-term outcomes for ovarian cancer.

The findings from OMRF researcher Magdalena Bieniasz, Ph.D., could pave the way for better personalized medicine options for women who have the deadliest form of the disease.

Known as high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, it accounts for nearly 70% of all ovarian cancer cases and is frequently resistant to chemotherapy.

“In the majority of patients with ovarian cancer, even if chemotherapy works well initially, the tumors return and do not respond well the second time, leading to death,” said Bieniasz.

“To overcome this, we are looking for more specific approaches.”

Bieniasz identified an experimental compound called AD80 that was more effective than chemotherapy at initial treatment of ovarian cancer tumor samples taken from both humans and mice. The compound also helped stop tumor metastasis and cancer recurrence, potentially significantly improving long-term outcomes. The research was published in the journal Genes & Cancer.

In collaboration with oncologists at OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, Bieniasz is testing drugs to block a specific cell receptor that is implicated in half of the ovarian cancer tumors she studied.

When identifying a potential therapy, researchers look for compounds that can block even a single gene, receptor or pathway involved in the disease process. AD80 compound showed increased potential by blocking multiple pathways.

“It helped more than anything we’ve ever looked at,” said Bieniasz, noting that the drug also shows promise for breast, lung and prostate cancers.

The next step will be to tailor and adapt the compound into a precision treatment for certain forms of ovarian cancer.

“These treatments are designed in a way to target only the cancer cells, but not healthy cells,” she said. “Ovarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer deaths among American women and sorely needs better options. This is potentially a huge step in the right direction.”

OMRF scientist Magdalena Bieniasz, Ph.D., studies how ovarian cancer grows and spreads in the body and the genetic changes in cancer cells that can lead to chemotherapy resistance. Bieniasz recently discovered a therapy that could potentially improve ovarian cancer outcomes.

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. P ayment is due upon submitted by noon Thursday.

Page 10 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Judge blasts the press

By Steve Gust Editor Edmond Life & Leisure There was an interesting article, which flew under the radar earlier this month.

Laurence Silberman is a judge for the U.S. Court of Ap- Steve Gust peals of the District of Columbia Circuit. He had a dissent in a libel case and took the opportunity to lambaste the press.

He basically accused the press of promoting Democrats.

He said The New York Times and The Washington Post are Democratic Party broadsheets.

And he said virtually all television -network and cable -- are Democratic Party “trumpets.”

He rightfully called our one-sided press a threat to democracy in America.

I agree with the judge a 100 percent.

There was a book written years ago, called “Bias,” by Bernard Goldberg. He made a lot of the claims the judge did.

But in actuality, it’s no longer bias. It’s advocacy.

There is a liberal agenda and the press advances it. Even on The Oklahoman news pages, the national wire services they use are blatantly advocates for every liberal idea around.

Objectivity is thrown out the window.

Look at that ridiculous press conference President Biden had last week.

There weren’t any tough questions for Biden. They knew he couldn’t handle them.

Here was his quote on the filibuster.

“And so, I’m going to say something outrageous: I have never been particularly poor at calculating how to get things done in the United States Senate. So the best way to get something done, if you — if you hold near and dear to you that you like to be able to — anyway —.”

Someone want to translate that?

The judge is right. Get back to objective journalism.The nation’s democracy depends on it.

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

Taking a robust approach to civics ed Amy Curran Oklahoman.com Most recognize Oklahoma needs to improve civics education in our schools to combat a lack of knowledge about and participation in our government.

In response, Oklahoma state Rep. O’Donnell authored House Bill 2030 that would require all students, as a requirement for high school graduation, to pass the citizenship test identical to the test required of individuals seeking U.S. citizenship by naturalization.

Mandating this test, however well-intentioned, is not an evidence-based approach to preparing students for informed civic participation. Nor does it teach the critical thinking and realworld skills of collaboration and communication that help lead to effective, knowledgeable participation in our polity.

By adopting a “just the facts” approach, this bill relies on the unproven premise that a better understanding of governmental institutions and

processes, alone, will yield higher participation. A better approach is available.

Just like students learn science by doing experiments in labs, not by just memorizing the periodic table, students must learn civics by doing civics.

Action Civics facilitates classroom discussions of local or state issues, teaches students how government (at various levels) affects the issue and provides hands-on interaction with community leaders, government officials and school administrators.

Studies have found students who receive this type of robust civics education score highest on civic assessments.

They leave class ready to do more than pass a test of factual knowledge – they are ready to think critically about what is on the news, exercise their right to vote in elections, and be engaged and active in democratic processes.

Amy Curran is Oklahoma executive director of Generation Citizen, and the Oklahoma Civic Learning Coalition.

Lankford seeks answers from Census Dept.

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today sent a letter to Acting Director of the US Census Bureau to express his displeasure with the delay in getting data to states from the Census conducted in 2020. In the letter, Lankford stressed that the delay will jeopardize states’ efforts to redraw their districts in time for Lankford state and federal elections.

Lankford participated in a hearing for the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs entitled, “The 2020 Census and Current Activities of the US Census Bureau,” which focused on the escalating costs every 10 years of Census taking and how to collect data more efficiently—especially after the 2020 Census cost taxpayers nearly $16 billion.

Lankford actively encouraged Oklahomans to participate in the 2020 Census during his telephone town halls and on social media. In April 2015, Lank-

ford was already working to prepare for and address some of these issues surrounding the 2020 Census during a committee hearing to examine the process and challenges facing the US Census Bureau. In July 2019, Lankford participated in a similar Census-related committee hearing in which he also focused on efforts to improve Census efficiency by augmenting paper questionnaires with safe phone and internetbased options, particularly in rural areas, as well as the status of coupling the 2030 Census and beyond with that year’s tax filings to increase efficiency and ease.

The full text of the letter is here and below.

Dear Acting Director Jarmin: As Ranking Member of the Government Operations and Border Management Subcommittee, I am tasked with oversight of the US Census Bureau. I am very concerned about the potential detrimental impact caused by the Bureau’s delay in delivering redistricting data to states from April 30 to September

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30. This significant delay is jeopardizing states’ efforts to redraw their districts in time for state and federal elections.

While I understand and appreciate the unique and unprecedented challenges faced by the Census Bureau in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, I am concerned that the Bureau may have failed to inform the states early enough to mitigate the delay.

As such, I am requesting answers on how this situation arose and ultimately led to a five month delay in redistricting data release. In addition, it is important to understand the actions you have taken, and plan to take, in order to mitigate the harm and uncertainty that these delays have caused.

Please respond to the following questions by April 8, 2021: 1) When did the Bureau know that they would not be able to release the redistricting data to states

by April 30?

2) When did the Bureau officially notify states there would be a significant delay in delivery of the data?

3) The Bureau has stated that COVID is the primary factor contributing to the delay in redistricting data. A snowball effect of delays resulting from the initial suspension is predictable but demands proper management and communication. a. What downstream impacts of COVID challenged Bureau employees creating the data files needed to release apportionment and ultimately redistricting data? b. What day did the Bureau begin producing the 2020 Decennial Response File 1 (DRF1)? What day did the Bureau begin producing the 2010 DRF1? c. What day did you begin the data processing

See Census, Page 11

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 11

2021 NCAA

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Nellie Clay

Virtual concerts ongoing Okemah singer-songwriter Nellie Clay will present a virtual concert to benefit the Round Barn, from 8 to 9 p.m. Thursday, April 1.

The concert can be found on the Arcadia Round Barn Facebook page and is part of the Virtual Barn series of livestreamed concerts, which continue every Thursday night through April 22.

Clay’s newest EP is “Oh America,” which she recorded in Chicago with her friend and producer Joe Shadid, who also sings and plays on the record.

She said the project “is mostly about love, compassion and strength.”

Morning Music, featuring the Round Barn Ramblers, will resume at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 3, at the Round Barn, which is six miles east of Interstate 35 on historic Route 66.

The barn is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about music at the barn, call Joe Baxter at 405833-1350.

To volunteer in the museum, call Kimberly Burk at 405-651-0240.

Census From Page10 phase you are currently in? What day did you begin the same phase in the 2010 Census? d. When does the Bureau expect to transition from apportionment data processing to redistricting data processing? When did the Bureau begin the transition to redistricting data processing in 2010?

4) Outline the events that caused the very long delay in data delivery. a. When was the first day the 2020 Census timeline fell behind? b. What actions were undertaken

by leadership to catch up at that time?

In addition to the questions above, please provide the original timeline for calendar year 2020 with key Census dates and the actual timeline of the Census events for 2020.

Every American has been faced with unprecedented obstacles throughout this pandemic, and the Census Bureau is no exception. However, it is imperative that this duty, mandated by the Constitution, is conducted successfully with transparency.

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Page 12 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

ELAINE WARNER

The Piazza was a familiar sight to fans of Patrick McGoohan’s TV series ‘The Prisoner’ filmed here in the late ‘60s.

Exploring the hidden UK gem of Wales

By Elaine Warner My dad loved movies and he loved nothing better spotting an anachronism – a con trail in the sky over an Old West town or a wrist watch on a Roman soldier. I got curious the other day. I know anachronisms are things that don’t fit in time, but I wondered if there was a word for things that didn’t Elaine fit in place. There is – anatopism.

My dad was also an Anglophile. He would have loved Portmeirion – an anatopic, anachronistic holiday village on the coast of Wales.

Created in the 1920s by architect Bertram Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is a pastel pastiche of the Italian Riviera, classic architectural forms and salvaged bits and pieces of old structures. Sounds like a mish-mash, but it’s a delightful expression of Williams-Ellis’ contention that a variety of designs can be blended into a pleasing whole when respectfully fitted into the natural environment.

Williams-Ellis 1883-1978) was a tireless advocate for preservation of rural landscapes and creation of national parks in England and Wales. He was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire and knighted by Queen Elizabeth.

He designed hundreds of structures not only all over the United Kingdom but as far away as China and Argentina. Portmeirion was his lasting love, one on which he worked for over 50 years.

Jack, our daughter Zoe, and I visited Portmeirion in the fall of 2014. This stop was one of many on a 12-day drive from Zoe’s home in Penzance, Cornwall, England, circling from Cardiff, Wales, around the Welsh coast and back through the western shires of England, to Cornwall.

Our AirBnB accommodation in Rachub was a short distance from Portmeirion. The day was overcast and, even though the elevation wasn’t high, clouds touched the tops of the trees. It was early in the day and, although it was near the end of Septem-

ELAINE WARNER

The Portmerion Bell Tower incorporates stones from a 12th century castle which once stood on this land

ber, the parking lot was filling up.

We followed a path down to a set of toll gates, paid our admission, and walked through. To the right was a shop full of Portmeirion pottery. The company was started by William-Ellis’ daughter Susan. Although she died in 2007, the pottery is still produced and her original designs are quite popular.

Ahead, the path ran through an impressive pink building – the Gatehouse. Like so many of the buildings in Portmeirion, this houses accommodations. This was where Beatles’ manager Brian Epstein hired an extended stay back in the day – a good getaway for the popular band members.

Just beyond, the path ran through another building, the Bridge House, painted a brilliant blue and terra cotta with a turquoise wrought iron insert with a mermaid theme. Several of these panels are used in other spots around the property – salvaged from the Liverpool Seaman’s Mission before it was demolished. We were beginning to get it! Color, conservation, and combinations – Williams-Ellis was a genius at collecting bits and pieces and putting them together in creative ways.

After the second gate, the vista opened up revealing a fairy-tale village – domes, towers, a mix of Mediterranean with classical styles and all in colors to be found in trays at an ice cream store.

Speaking of which, the Angel café serves wonderful, homemade gelato. There are several other options for eating in Portmeirion. Our lunch choice, Caffi Glas, is currently closed sue to difficulties with distancing inside. No problem when we were there – and no problem traveling with a vegetarian, lots of choices. We skipped shops, but couldn’t resist the Golden Dragon Book Store.

The village is small but the attractions are many.

A large open area, the Piazza, features a beautiful pool and lots of flowers. Several of the coolest architectural treasures are here, too. At one end of the space is the Gothic Pavilion, originally part of a porte cochere for a country estate. At the other end is the Gloriette, another façade-only structure, this one featuring 18th century columns from an-

other destroyed country manor.

On one side of the piazza is the Bristol Colonnade built in 1760 and re-erected here in 1959. To achieve this, every stone was numbered upon dismantling, transported two hundred miles by road, and carefully re-assembled on the site.

Another of Williams-Ellis’ unwieldy rescues is the ceiling in the Town Hall – an early seventeenth century, barrel-vaulted, intricately-carved plaster ceiling for which he paid 13 pounds. But he didn’t stop there – also purchasing large, leaded-glass, mullioned windows, the fireplace and more. I didn’t know about the ceiling when we were there – reason enough to go back!

The dusty-rose façade of the Unicorn House, displaying Georgian-style architecture, actually masks a simpler bungalow containing a family suite with a double room, twin room, two bathrooms and a living room. Accommodations on the property include a mix of hotel rooms and self-catering cottages. Hotel prices range from a low-season £140 to £350 for the penthouse suite. Cottages require multiple night stays. Be aware that prices will fluctuate with the value of the dollar. As of today that £140 would be the equivalent of $194.

The entire complex comprises 140 acres – 70 for the village and 70 for a forest garden which includes native plants and exotics. The whole area is a network of paths for exploring – but it was getting late and we’d done a lot of walking. We capped our visit with a tram tour of this lush, green area.

Don’t be fooled into thinking this architectural anomaly is analogous to one of our popular amusement parks. It is definitely a tourist attraction but one worthy of contemplation and appreciation as an artist’s creation.

From an American perspective, Wales is sort of a U.K. stepchild – England, Scotland and Ireland seem to get much more publicity. What we discovered in Wales was a treasure chest of goodies we’d never heard of. And Portmeirion was definitely one of those gems.

ELAINE WARNER

The Hotel Portmerion was originally an late 18th century summer residence. With renovations and additions, it now serves as a hotel and restaurant. Notice another of the mermaid panels from Liverpool

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 13

PHOTO/AMY I-LIN CHENG

Pictured, are, Gregory Lee, Katrin Stamatis, Chad Burrow, Mark Neumann, and Jonathan Ruck.

Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble announces spring virtual series Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble announces a three-concert series 7:30 pm streaming for free each Sunday from April 18 through May 2 via Facebook and Youtube. In celebration of Women’s History Month, Romantic Generation features under-represented composers Clara Schumann and Princess Marie Elisabeth von Sachsen-Meiningen alongside greats like Beethoven and Brahms. These Romantic-era composers reflected on the upheavals of 19th century Europe through creative self-expression.

The series begins with a concert featuring romances, tender lyrical pieces, by Beethoven, Clara Schumann, and Princess Marie Elisabeth, in addition to a larger quartet by Finnish composer Bernhard Crusell. The second all-Brahms concert includes his Cello Sonata in E minor and Trio for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano. The series concludes with virtuosic works by Gabriel Fauré and Carl

Maria von Weber.

Our virtual concerts were recorded at First Baptist Church of Oklahoma City and First Christian Church Norman, with smaller ensembles and shorter programs to maintain social distancing.

Please join Brightmusic as we celebrate the best in Romantic era chamber music!

Concert I – Romance – Sunday, April 18 7:30 pm The Jeannette Sias Memorial Concert •Ludwig van Beethoven, Romance No. 1 in G Major, Op. 40 for Violin and Piano •Clara Schumann, Three Romances for Violin and Piano, Op. 22 •Princess Marie Elisabeth von Sachsen-Meiningen, Romanze for Clarinet and Piano •Bernhard Crusell, Quartet in E-flat major for Clarinet and Strings, Op. 2, no. 1 Concert II – Brahms the Romantic – Sunday,

April 25 7:30 pm •Johannes Brahms, Sonata for Cello and Piano in E minor, Op. 38 •Johannes Brahms, Trio for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano in A minor, Op. 114 Concert III – Romantic Virtuosi – Sunday, May 2 7:30 pm •Gabriel Fauré, Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 1 in A Major, Op. 13 •Carl Maria von Weber, Quintet for Clarinet and String Quartet in B flat Major, Op. 34 Musicians appearing are Chad Burrow (clarinet), Gregory Lee and Katrin Stamatis (violins), Mark Neumann (viola), Jonathan Ruck (cello), and Amy I-Lin Cheng (piano).

Links to the concerts, program notes, and more information will be available on our website www.brightmusic.org

Page 14 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of film ‘Zach Snyder’s Justice League’

A good but taxing four-hour movie

By George Gust In “Zack Snyder’s Justice League”, determined to ensure Superman's (Henry Cavill) ultimate sacrifice was not in vain, Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck) aligns forces with Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) with plans to recruit a team of metahumans to protect the world from an approaching threat of catastrophic proportions. Now united, Batman (Affleck), Wonder Woman (Gadot), Aquaman (Jason Momoa), Cyborg (Ray Fisher) and The Flash (Ezra Miller) may be too late to save the planet from a near unstoppable dreadful force.

In an era of movie/TV consumption where you are more likely to sit down and watch four or five episodes of a gripping hour-long Netflix drama than turn on a 2-hour movie, “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” stands as a unique study in directorial and fandom indulgence. The long and complicated backstory of how we came to a 4-hour extended and supplemented cut of the 2017 “Justice League” movie is full of tragedy and internet malice, but the ending result of this behemoth super-hero film is a vast improvement on its trimmer 2017 counterpart in terms of character development and storytelling.

The cost of these story and character improvements is rather high in terms of the extended sequences of

ponderous and over-the-top visual storytelling that Snyder fans will love, and others will find exhausting.

“Zack Snyder’s Justice League” does a better job introducing the new members of the team, particularly Fisher as Cyborg and Miller as The Flash, which ultimately provides for more of an emotional experience than the choppy edit of the original movie.

Fisher especially benefits from the extension of his story arc, providing an engaging performance throughout, when his character was relegated to a sub-B plot level of attention and care in the original.

And Miller’s motor mouth performance is also a big beneficiary in this movie, as he added a muchneeded source of comedic presence as well as slick visual action sequences.

Overall, the lesson of “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” is one that Marvel learned at the beginning of their unprecedented run; take your time to lay the groundwork and build up to the team up. This version of “Justice League” carries much of the narrative weight of the DC Extended Universe to build up the requisite super-heroes over its 4-hour running time, a feat which was accomplished by Marvel in a series of half a dozen movies. “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” is a surprisingly more coherent movie experience than the 2017 version, but the tone is still unrelentingly grim for characters kids look up to, and while the epic visual Snyder style is impressive at times, it gets rather taxing after 4 hours. “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” is one ‘for the fans’ and in that respect, it hits its mark, but for those not entrenched in comic book lore, this movie is unwieldy and exhausting with its self-import.

“Zack Snyder’s Justice League” is rated R for violence and some language. Now available to stream with an HBO Max subscription.

2.9 out of 5 stars.

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

PHOTO PROVIDED

Zack Snyder brings his definitive vision of Batman, Superman and the Justice League to HBO Max, in the fan-demanded 4 hour long version of ‘Justice League.’

Food bank’s gift shop

Answers appearing on Page 19

The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma has launched an online merchandise store with proceeds supporting the fight against hunger in Oklahoma.

The Regional Food Bank store, found at rfbo.org/shop, features hats, T-shirts, onesies, mugs and many more items for sale with the organization's new brand and colors. Proceeds from the sale of every item helps to provide meals to Oklahomans living with hunger.

"We have heard from our volunteers, partners and the public for many years that they would love to be able to purchase Regional Food Bank branded items," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. "We are proud to partner with a locally-owned company, PRNT, to make the Regional Food Bank Store a reality."

Each item is made on demand at PRNT and shipped directly to the customer. Several designs are available in multiple colors and styles. The first 200 orders over $50 will receive a free Regional Food Bank mask with their order. Some items now available at the store are: •A 24-ounce thermal bottle •Three food pun designs on both shortsleeved and long-sleeved T-shirts •A pocket apron •Men's and women's polos •Infant onesies

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Science 101 ACROSS 1. Type of tide 5. Sin over tan 8. Schooner pole 12. Part of temple floor plan 13. Made a basket 14. *Main artery in the body 15. *____-carotene 16. Swear, not curse 17. Reputation-damaging gossip 18. *Physicist of theory of relativity fame 20. Salty drop 21. Turn upside down 22. Mark on Pinterest 23. *Everything around us 26. Porch in ancient Greece 30. Not St. or Blvd.

31. Percussion instrument 34. "Aim High... Fly-FightWin" org.

35. Walks like Long John Silver 37. "Dog ____ dog" 38. Like TV or phone in 2021 39. Measuring roll 40. Catch in a net 42. Gorilla or orangutan 43. Pull-over parkas 45. *One of B-vitamins 47. Anger 48. Open disrespect 50. Full of excitement 52. *Explanations that can be tested and verified 55. Words to live by 56. Sword handle 57. Large West African republic 59. "Encore!"

60. Unrivaled 61. From a second-hand store 62. Cleopatra's necklace 63. Second solfa syllable, pl.

64. Makes stitches DOWN 1. Pick up a perpetrator 2. Dueling weapon in "The Three Musketeers" 3. ____ Spumante 4. Treat for Dumbo

5. Witches' get-together 6. Egg-shaped 7. Made with stitches 8. *Product of mass and velocity of an object 9. *Equals length times width 10. *Alpha Centauri A., e.g.

11. Toni Morrison's "____ Baby" 13. Like rheumy eyes 14. On the move 19. Four-eyes' gear 22. Short for "politician" 23. Tiny European republic 24. Type of flu 25. Moderato, e.g.

26. ToupÈe spot 27. *Scientist Newton 28. *Wrist bones 29. More than occasional 32. Department store department 33. "Pow!" 36. *Mendeleev's ____ table

38. Bake, as in eggs 40. Make bigger 41. Persnickety 44. *Ar, inert gas 46. Bad blood 48. Use a shoe polish 49. *Smallest units of life 50. Jason's ship 51. Wheel inside old clock 52. God of thunder 53. Alleviate 54. Boatload 55. Tom of "Tom and Jerry" 58. Dog tags

See Answers on Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 15

What’s Happening in April ---- In the Gallery: James Coplin ---- VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience ---- What’s Cooking, Edmond?

---- Taproom Tones featuring Kyle Brewer ---- Taproom Tones featuring Robert Allen ---- Taproom Tones featuring American Slang ---- Taproom Tones featuring The Brave Amigos w/Edgar Cruz ---- Taproom Tones featuring Amanda Cunningham ---- Taproom Tones featuring Whiskey & Wine ---- Taproom Tones featuring Brandon Birdwell ---- The Spaces Between Exhibit ---- The Spaces Between: Closing Reception ---- UCO Symphony Orchestra ---- Silver Leaf Gems 20th Anniversary Bash ---- Easter Stuffed Animal Sleepover ---- Spunk Adams and Friends ---- Art in Public Places Tour ---- Refaire Phat Tuesday ---- Fishing 101 ---- Cellist Sara Sant ---- 15th Annual Sheffield Memorial Skate Comp ---- LowChella Car Show ---- Hike + Brew: Arcadia Office East Trail ---- FACS: David Forbat and Friends ---- UCO Opera: Cendrillon ---- VIRTUAL: Jewels & Sparkles ---- Edmond Jr Rodeo ---- Water Lantern Festival ---- Zukerman Trio ---- Brown Bag Lunch Series: The Spirit Lodge – Spiro’s Claim to Distinction in Ancient History ---- Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Colors of Nature ---- Sunday Spiro Spotlight – Jereldine Redcorn ---- Brown Bag Lunch Series: Mississippian Magical Theatrics at Spiro ---- Educators After Hours: Liichokoshkomo’ ---- Drop-In Drawing ---- Perked Up Playdate ---- Brown Bag Lunch Series: The Arkansas Valley Traditions of Spiro ---- Traditional Caddo Pottery Techniques ---- Brown Bag Lunch Series: Cognitive Approaches to the Analysis of Mississippian Craig-Style Gorgets ---- Sunday Spiro Spotlight – Anita Fields ---- Virtual Living History Performance: York: Explorer ---- Brown Bag Lunch Series: Woven Worlds: The Archaeology of the Textiles and Basketry of the Mississippian World ---- Dinner and Living History Performance: York: Explorer ---- Date with the Duke: Fort Apache (1948) ---- Easter Eggstravaganza ---- Oklahoma Quarter Horse Spring Show ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: The Music of Queen ---- Oklahoma Railway Museum Train Rides & Egg Hunt ---- Armstrong Auditorium presents: Sara Sant’Ambrogio ---- Chesapeake Energy Arena Presents: Jeff Dunham ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Only Tchaikovsky ---- 89er Days Celebration ---- Oklahoma City Ballet Presents: The Little Mermaid ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Blockbuster Broadway ---- Safari Soiree Extra Information In the Gallery: James Coplin Location: Edm. Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Free; featuring the art of James Coplin; Gallery Opening Thu, Apr 1; 5 – 7 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Thu, Apr 1 – Thu, Oct 7; Free; 5 – 9 p.m.; edmondvibes.org What’s Cooking, Edmond?

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Now – Tue, Aug 31; Free; edmondhistory.org

Hike + Brew: Arcadia Edmond Park to Swamp Trail Location: Arcadia Lake Extra Info: Mon, Apr 12; 8 – 9:30 a.m.; Free; edmondok.perfectmind.com Taproom Tones featuring Kyle Brewer Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Thu, Apr 1; Free; 6-9 p.m.; Facebook Silver Leaf Gems 20th Anniversary Bash Location: Silver Leaf Gems Extra Info: Thu, Apr 1 – Sat, Apr 3; Apr 1, 5 – 9 p.m.; Apr 2, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Apr 3, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Facebook Taproom Tones featuring Robert Allen Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Fri, Apr 2; 7 – 10 p.m.; Facebook The Spaces Between Exhibit Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Melton Gallery Extra Info: Thu, Apr 22; Free; 5 – 7:30 p.m.; Facebook The Spaces Between: Closing Reception Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Melton Gallery Extra Info: Thu, Mar 11 – Fri, Apr 30; Free; Facebook UCO Symphony Orchestra University of Central Oklahoma Extra Info: 7:30 -9:30 p.m.; Thu, Apr 1; Facebook Easter Stuffed Animal Sleepover Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: $5 per stuffed animal; Fri, Apr 2 – Sat, Apr 3; edmondhistory.org Spunk Adams and Friends Location: Jack Rabbit Slim’s Extra Info: Sat, Apr 3; 7 p.m.; live music, great food and delicious cocktails Refaire Phat Tuesday Location: Brent’s Cajun Seafood & Oyster Bar Extra Info: Tue, Apr 6; 12 p.m.; brentscajunseafood.com LowChella Car Show Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Sat, Apr 10; 4 ---- 9 p.m.; Facebook Taproom Tones featuring American Slang Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Sat, Apr 3; Free; 7 – 9 p.m.; Facebook Art in Public Places Tour Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: Tue, Apr 6; Tue, Apr 20; $15; 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; edmondok.perfectmind.com Fishing 101 Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: Wed, Apr 7; Wed, Apr 21; $15; 5:30 – 7 p.m.; edmondok.perfectmind.com Cellist Sara Sant Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Thu, Apr 8; $30 ---- $55; 7:30 p.m.; armstrongauditorium.org Taproom Tones featuring The Brave Amigos w/Edgar Cruz Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Thu, Apr 8; Free; 7 p.m.; Facebook 15th Annual Sheffield Memorial Skate Comp Location: Mathis Brothers Skate Park Extra Info: Fri, Apr 9; Free; 5:30 p.m.; Facebook Taproom Tones featuring Amanda Cunningham Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Fri, Apr 9; Free; 7 – 10 p.m.; Facebook

See Events, Page 16

New OCU president named Oklahoma City University has named Dr. Kenneth R. Evans as its next president, Board of Trustees Chairman Paul McLaughlin announced last week. Dr. Evans will become the 19th president of the 117-year-old university on July 1. He is currently the president of Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.

“With his years of academic leadership at Lamar and other institutions, we are confident in Dr. Evans’ ability to help us continue our tradition of excellence,” McLaughlin said. “His experience as a president and administrator, along with his local connections in central Oklahoma, will be valuable assets in continuing to move the university forward.”

Dr. Evans became president of Lamar University in 2013 after more than six years as dean at the Price College of Business at the University of Oklahoma. Prior to OU, Dr. Evans served in a variety of administrative roles at the University of Missouri-Columbia and as a marketing professor at Arizona State University.

“I look forward to joining the OCU family and helping the university continue to build momentum in enrollment, student experience and alumni relations,” Dr. Evans said. “I’m excited to connect with students, faculty, staff and university stakeholders, and to call Oklahoma City home.”

Dr. Evans received his doctorate from the University of Colorado, his MBA from California State UniversitySacramento, and his undergraduate degree from the University of California-Davis. His research has been published in marketing and business academic journals and has received

Dr. Kenneth R. Evans

national and international recognition for his contributions. Dr. Evans has been recognized for his work in the design and implementation of interactive learning experiences and graduate education.

Before his academic career, Dr. Evans worked in the transportation industry in various marketing and sales capacities and has been involved in sales and sales management consulting in the banking industry, convention sales, and financial services.

President Martha Burger will continue leading Oklahoma City University until June 30.

“I am excited to welcome Dr. Evans as the new president of OCU,” Burger said. “I believe that my alma mater will be in good hands and that OCU’s future is as bright as ever.”

Page 16 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Becky Crow honored for honesty trait

Becky Crow

Becky Crow with Gloria Baumann

Edmond business owner, Becky Crow, received the honor of Champion of Character for Honesty, in a Drive-by Presentation. The presentation took place Monday morning at Becky’s business, Broadway Antiques.

Character Council of Edmond President Jim Hulsey and board member, Gloria Baumann, were joined by recent Champion of Character Michelle Schaefer to award Becky with the Champion of Character certificate.

Friend and fellow Downtown Edmond Business Association board member, Stephanie Carel, nominated Becky for the award. Stephanie said, “Becky Crow is the best at being truthful, honest and good.”

Becky learned the value of honesty as a child, while growing up in Texas.

“It was just the way I was raised and seeing how much easier life is if you are [honest].”

Becky related two major influences that helped develop her integrity—an experience in elementary school and her father’s exemplary character.

Becky said, “When I was in the third grade, our class was lined up in the hall waiting to go outside. We were told to be still and quiet. Another girl pushed a boy and yelled something. The teacher was standing in front of me and just turned around and spanked me (when they could).

I had never been in trouble at school and was so shocked, I didn’t even tell her it wasn’t me. Later, the girl responsible went to her and told her the truth. She was made to apologize and I was so impressed. She knew she would possibly get in trouble, but still did the right thing. We ended up being very good friends” Becky’s foundation of honesty also stemmed from watching her dad do business. She said, “He always stressed to us the importance of honoring your word and being honest.”

Becky’s early lessons and father’s example served her well in her own businesses. Becky rents booth space to a number of different people.

Maintaining meticulous records of sales is important to operating a successful business.

Becky said, “If you aren’t honest, word travels fast and soon you’ll be unable to rent your spaces.”

Becky also views integrity as vital to maintaining customer relations. It’s hard to build a customer base when merchandise doesn’t live up to the claims made about it.

In her nomination, Stephanie said of Becky, “She will tell you what you need to hear even if it is something that is difficult.”

In the antique business, Becky said, “We get a lot of people who bring family heirlooms, expecting to make a lot of money. It’s hard to tell them it may not be what they’ve been led to believe.”

She recalled a time when a man brought in silverware to sell. Becky said, “Family had told him it was worth a great deal of money and he was trying to sell it. Unfortunately, it was silver plate and not even in good condition. It was sad to be the one to tell him.”

Stephanie said, “Becky has been a long-time business owner in Downtown Edmond and is trusted by the dozens of vendors she has in her store. She is a true asset to our community.”

Becky and her husband, Bob, have been married for almost 40 years.

They have one daughter, Jessica.

The family moved to Edmond in 1990. A few years later Becky purchased Gingerbread Cottage and bought Broadway Antiques in 2008.

Bob was the manager for Dealers Auto Auction until he retired in 2010.

Along with being a board member for DEBA, Becky is also a board member of the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival.

On behalf of the City of Edmond and the Character Council of Edmond, Rebecca Crow was honored before the City Council as a Champion of Character for exemplifying the character trait of honesty, “Being truthful in what I say and do.”

The Character Council is a grassroots, nonprofit organization committed to creating a citywide initiative to build Edmond into a "Community of Character."

The group believes that the character of a nation can only be strengthened one person at a time, one community at a time. Toward that end, the Character Council of Edmond seeks to recognize residents who demonstrate character, as witnessed by those who have been affected and influenced.

To nominate a citizen as a “Champion of Character,” one who exemplifies these character traits, visit www.edmondcharacter.org or write: Champions of Character, PO Box 392, Edmond OK 73083-0392.

Events From Page 15 Taproom Tones featuring Whiskey & Wine Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Sat, Apr 10; Free; 7 – 10 p.m.; Facebook FACS: David Forbat and Friends Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Tue, Apr 13; Free; 7:30 p.m.; Facebook Taproom Tones featuring Brandon Birdwell Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Fri, Apr 16; Free; 6 – 10 p.m.; Facebook UCO Opera: Cendrillon Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Mitchell Hall Theater Extra Info: Fri, Apr 16 – Sun, Apr 18; 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.; Facebook VIRTUAL: Jewels & Sparkles Location: Silver Leaf Gems Extra Info: Thu, Apr 22; 8 ---- 9 p.m.; Facebook Edmond Jr Rodeo Location: Edmond Round Up Club – Carl Benne Arena Extra Info: Fri, Apr 23 – Sat, Apr 24; $5, adults; $1 for 18 and younger; edmondroundupclub.com Water Lantern Festival Location: Hafer Park & A.C. Caplinger Ball Fields Extra Info: Sat, Apr 24; $25.99 to $55.99; 5:30 p.m.; Facebook

Zukerman Trio Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Thu, Apr 29; 7:30 p.m.; $35 ---- $75; Facebook Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Colors of Nature Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Apr 3; 10 – 12 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Brown Bag Lunch Series: The Spirit Lodge – Spiro’s Claim to Distinction in Ancient History Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Apr 1; 12 – 1 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Sunday Spiro Spotlight – Jereldine Redcorn Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Apr 11; 1 – 1:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Brown Bag Lunch Series: Mississippian Magical Theatrics at Spiro Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Apr 8; 12 – 1 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Educators After Hours: Liichokoshkomo’ Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Apr 22; 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 17

UCO College of Business names Oller new dean The University of Central Oklahoma has named Jeremy Oller, J.D., Ph.D., as dean of the College of Business, effective June 1.

“I am very pleased that Dr. Oller has agreed to serve as the next dean of the College of Business,” said Charlotte Simmons, Ph.D., provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.

“Dr. Oller has demonstrated outstanding leadership over the past 14 months while serving in an interim role, steadily and skillfully guiding the college through one of the most tumultuous times in its history. Amid budget concerns and a

pandemic, Dr. Oller has been a collaborative, energetic and dedicated leader, keeping the faculty, staff and students at the forefront of his mind. I am excited for the future of the College of Business and look forward to working with Dean Oller to charter its course.”

Oller has served as the college’s interim dean since January 2020. Since arriving at Central in 2005, Oller attained tenure and the rank of professor in the Department of Economics, in addition to serving as chairperson from 2012 to 2020.

Oller has accumulated many accolades since joining the UCO,

including the College of Business Excellence in Teaching Award (2009), the Vanderford Distinguished Teacher Award (2009), the College of Business Exemplary Service Award (2012) and the Business Excellence Award for Teaching (2013).

Oller holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Oklahoma, a Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma and a B.B.A. in economics from the University of Central Oklahoma.

For more information about the UCO College of Business, visit www.uco.edu/business.

Jeremy Oller

Financial advisor honored Candace Hobbs, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Edmond, qualified for the firm's 2021 Financial Advisor Leaders Conference.

This achievement recognizes and celebrates financial advisors who are among the leaders in the financial services firm and provides important industry updates, best practices and ideas to help them serve more individual investors in their communities.

"These financial advisors have shown a tremendous amount of discipline, commitment and work ethic," said John Rahal, an Edward Jones partner responsible for the firm's recognition events. "While

this conference will be held virtually this year, we are looking forward to recognizing and celebrating these financial advisors for their hard work and exceptional service they provide to our clients."

The conference will be held on September 6-10, 2021.

"I am honored to be recognized as an Edward Jones Financial Advisor Leader," says Hobbs. "I share this honor with the clients who have entrusted me to help them reach their life's goals."

Hobbs acknowledges that the success of her branch office would not be possible without a strong team.

"This level of achieve-

Candace Hobbs ment only occurs when you have outstanding support," she said. "Our team makes it possible for me to focus my time and attention on implementing financial solutions to our clients."

This is Hobbs' third time attending the conference.

Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 company headquartered in St. Louis, provides financial services in the U.S.

Valor Bank staff additions Valor Bank is proud to announce and welcome new additions to their deposit operations.

Ashley Thomas joined Valor in November 2020 and serves on the retail operations team. Thomas is responsible for opening Coldwater West Thomas new accounts and helping to ensure customers are sucence to Valor, most notably as forcessful in their banking. Thomas, who mer Senior Vice President of Deposit previously worked at Citizens Bank of Operations at Prime Bank where she Edmond, looks forward to continuing served in that capacity from April to serve the downtown Edmond com2008 until they sold in September munity while managing the retail func2020. tion of Valor's new location projected “Michelle is a big-time hire for any to open later this year. bank and we are honored she chose “We are really excited Ashley decided to join us. We value her outgo- Valor. She has a loyal following of customers that trust her and she is ing personality, banking experience, the perfect complement to our curand desire to serve our customers,” rent staffing mix to help us achieve said Josh Litsch, CEO of Valor Bank. our vision,” Litsch said.

Michelle West joined in February In conjunction with West joining 2021 and serves as Senior Vice Presithe bank, Caleb Coldwater was prodent of Deposit Operations. West moted to Senior Vice President of oversees all policies, procedures, and compliance matters related to deposit Customer Success. His role primarily includes overseeing the retail operaoperations as well as helps Valor actions team and day-to-day retail bankcomplish its growth plans. West ing activities. brings 38 years of banking experi-

Insurance Commissioner bats down rumors on COVID vaccine Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready confirms that COVID19 vaccinations won’t affect policyholder’s life insurance benefits. He also urges Oklahoma consumers to be cautious about social media misinformation regarding COVID-19 vaccinations.

Social media posts have falsely indicated that getting a COVID-19 vaccine could threaten life insurance coverage claiming the vaccines are experimental and not tested for safety.

“This is simply not true,” said Commissioner Mulready. “Whether it’s Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson, these vaccines received Emergency Use Authorizations after the Food and Drug Administration determined their

safety and efficacy. I assure you that getting a COVID-19 vaccine will not impact your life insurance benefits.”

Tyler Laughlin, Regional Vice President of the American Council of Life Insurers, agreed.

“Life insurance policies are very clear on what might cause your insurer to deny a benefit,” said Laughlin. “Policyholders should rest assured that nothing has changed in the claims-paying process as a result of COVID-19 vaccinations.”

Commissioner Mulready encourages Oklahomans to contact their insurer if they have any questions or concerns about the details of their life insurance policies.

Business Group Helps HOPE Center The Downtown Edmond Business Association was happy to present The HOPE Center of Edmond a check for $422 from the Candygram Fundraiser. DEBA began this Fundraiser about three years ago and have enjoyed the relationships we have formed with local charities. Pictured is Chris Sperry, Executive Director of the Hope Center and Michelle Schaefer, DEBA Treasurer.

Page 18 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Mortgage Matters

Construction loans explained

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By Kenneth Wohl RCB Bank A variety of constructions loans are available to homebuyers. It all depends on your specific situation. If you want to shop around and Wohl potentially use more than one lender, then getting two separate loans (one for the construction and then a second to pay off the construction loan and put the debt into monthly payments) may be the best choice. If you prefer to work with one bank and one lender, a construction-to-permanent loan may be the best finance solution. The important part is that you talk with a trusted banking professional before making any decisions.

Construction Only Loan In this scenario, the borrower actually gets two loans. The first loan finances the construction of the home and the second loan refinances the construction into a long-term mortgage. This type of loan allows the homeowner to work with different lenders for the construction and permanent financing if they would like.

The upside of doing this this loan is that you may have more flexibility if there are cost overruns and you can typically draw out money more often. A potential downside is that you typically cannot lock-in your interest rate or obtain full underwriting approval on your permanent loan until 90 days or less before home is complete.

Construction-to-Permanent Loan With a construction-to-permanent, or “one time close,” loan you finance the construction of your home and the permanent financing with a single loan. In this type of a transaction the lender releases the money to the builder, contractor or other authorized suppliers as the phases of the construction are complete. The upside of this type of loan is that you know the details of your permanent

financing up front. The downside is that these loans may be more limited in the number of times you can draw money to pay builders and contracts.

It can also be more difficult to change your loan amount due to cost overruns.

Renovation Loan If you see the home of your dreams, but it is a fixer-upper, a home renovation loan may be the right solution. A home renovation loan is based on the value of your home after the renovation is complete. This means you are borrowing against the future equity of your home and not just its current value.

This may be a good option if the renovations are likely to increase the value of your home and/or reduce the long-term costs of the home.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) A HELOC is a line of credit secured by your home based on the current equity of your home. A HELOC may have lower closing costs than a traditional construction loan. Another upside is that most banks only charge interest on what you draw, or use, from the HELOC and not from the total amount approved. A potential downside is that rates for a HELOC are often variable and can increase throughout the life of the loan.

No matter what decision you make, talk to a trusted banker and outline a plan before beginning your project. I am here to help, even if you are not an RCB Bank customer. Feel free to call me, Kenneth Wohl, at 405.608.5291 or email me at kwohl@bankrcb.net.

Opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of Kenneth Wohl and meant for generic illustration purposes only. For specific questions regarding your personal lending needs, please call RCB Bank at 855-BANKRCB. With approved credit. Some restrictions apply. RCB Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and member FDIC. RCB Bank NMLS #798151.

Kenneth Wohl NMLS #453934.

Cruise’s ranch up for sale with price of $39.5 million hockey and a private trail sysStardom surged for Tom tem with access to and views Cruise in 1983 when he was of the 14,000-foot-high 19 and slid into the hallway in mountains in the distance Risky Business. Now in his with a private gate into the fourth decade as one of the Uncompahgre National Forworld’s most successful and est. There are hiking and ridwealthy actors, Tom owns ing trails and both dirt bike homes in Beverly Hills; Clearand snowmobile tracks that water, Florida and a 320-acre thread throughout the 320 ranch in Telluride, Colorado Cruise acres. that he helped design and is Telluride has long been a destinanow for sale at $39.5 million. tion for celebrities who like to ski or The Telluride home holds a lot of just get away and chill from their history for Cruise. It is where he enhigh-octane professional lives, and joyed time with his children and now is even more popular for secondmuch of his marriage to Katie home buyers during the pandemic.

Holmes.

Other stars who also find Telluride to It was also the location of his last be a great getaway include Robert major interview with Oprah, a folRedford, Jerry Seinfeld, and designerlow-up to Tom’s exuberant couchto-the-stars Ralph Lauren. jumping episode with Oprah in As with most famous celebrities, 2005. Oprah was so taken with the Tom has claimed his share of the gosCruise ranch and its views that she sip pages whether it be over his marlater bought her own home nearby.

The first impression of Tom’s home riages, children or film-role formulas.

However, as the reviewers of his driving up the mile-long driveway award-winning films agree, it doesn’t from the gated entrance is the staggering view of the mountains and val- matter what he says or does or the latest gossip, Cruise is one of the few leys. Designed to take full advantage actors who can be cast in any film of the views, the 11,512-square-foot with any script and will likely take the living space includes the 10,000film to the top of the box office ratsquare-foot, four-bedroom main ings. Working around the constraints house and a three-bedroom guest of Covid-19, Tom’s upcoming films house. Blending in with its wooded are Top Gun: Maverick and Mission: surroundings, the structures are clad Impossible 7. in rustic-bleached-cedar timbers and He is well known for taking risks native stone with beamed ceilings for his films, even doing his own risky and large expanses of glass. In addistunts. Rumor has it that he will be tion to a large eat-in kitchen, living going up in Elon Musk’s Space-X room and dining room that will seat rocket to the space station to film a crowd, there is a gym, recreation room and library. Detached and in its Mission: Impossible 7.

The listing agent for the Tom own aspen grove is the charming Cruise Telluride ranch is Dan Dockray guest house. Combined, there are a total of seven bedrooms and nine full of LIV Sotheby's International Realty, Telluride, Colorado. baths.

For more celebrity home news and The grounds are equally impressive celebrity home video tours, visit in all seasons. Outside is a sports TopTenRealEstateDeals.com. court for tennis, basketball or ice

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 1, 2021 • Page 19

Regional Food Bank & upcoming Leadership Class OCU schedules When it is safe to gather in-person, Leadership The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is seekClass members receive special access to volunteer ing young professionals, aged 24 to 40, to apply in-person graduation for Leadership Class VII. Applications are due opportunities and networking and social events.

Oklahoma City University has announced plans to host graduation ceremonies to honor the classes of 2020 and 2021. The in-person events, set for May 7 and 8 at the Freede Wellness Center, will follow established health protocols and include modifications to ensure the safety of students, organizers, and attendees.

To celebrate the class of 2020, whose degrees were conferred in a virtual ceremony last May, the university will invite graduates to reunite with their classmates, professors, and other alumni on campus May 7. In addition to the graduation celebration, 2020 graduates will be the first class to initiate the tradition of signing their names inside OCU’s historic Gold Star building.

“We are thrilled to welcome the class of 2020 back to OCU to solidify their mark on our campus,” said Megan Hornbeek Allen, director of alumni engagement. In the absence of a traditional graduation commencement last year, class of 2020 members received a gift box earlier this year to welcome them as alumni. The box included a print of “Abeka Apesychi,” a piece by artist D.G. Smalling dedicated to the class of 2020, and several pieces of OCU memorabilia.

The class of 2021 will also have an in-person celebration, spread out over the course of the day and grouped by school to allow for social distancing. The May 8 graduation commencement will also feature an opportunity for the new alumni to sign the Gold Star building.

The events’ planning committee, comprised of current and graduating students, staff, and class of 2020 members, received input from recent graduates and current OCU seniors to guide their efforts.

April 16.

The class connects young professionals who are looking to become more involved in their community and state while raising awareness about the issue of hunger in Oklahoma. Members will take a deep dive into the work of the Regional Food Bank. Throughout the yearlong class, members will adopt several service projects designed to enhance the work of the Regional Food Bank.

"Leadership Class is a great opportunity to connect with a diverse group of passionate individuals ready to make a difference in the community," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank.

Members also participate in virtual educational and informational programs designed to appeal to Oklahoma’s active young professionals in the community.

"The blinders that existed in my current environment made the reality of hunger and food insecurity an eye-opening experience," said W&W AFCO Steel's Casey Bates, Leadership Class VI member. "I loved being able to challenge my own perceptions of food insecurity, the people who experience it and the resources available to alleviate it."

Upon successful completion of Leadership Class, alumni are eligible to join the Regional Food Bank's Leadership Council.

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

Please check with your house of worship for more information.

Page 20 • April 1, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure