Edmond Life and Leisure - November 30, 2023

November 30, 2023 Vol. 24, No. 28

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Holiday fun here

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.

Holiday Children’s Safety Village Winter Night coming soon.

See Page 12

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 Mostly Cloudy High 45° Low 32°

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Partly Cloudy High 56° Low 36°

PHOTO PROVIDED

Oklahoma City University will present “Holiday Spectacular,” a performance of the Star Dance Company from the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment on Dec. 7-10. For tickets, check out okcu.edu/tickets or call 405-208-5227.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3 Mostly Sunny High 57° Low 35°

Oklahoma City University will have its annual “Holiday Spectacular” next month.

But that will be only one of many holiday events awaiting those wanting to get in a festive mood for the Christmas and shopping season.

On Page 6, we again feature weekend happenings and several of them are related to holiday cheer.

For instance there is Edmond Electric’s “Luminance — an Enchanted Stroll.” Several magnificent light displays at Mitch Park have the “ahh” factor. And the

Edmond Ice Rink is set up close to Luminance to assist in the ambiance.

And in the art world Pollard Theatre in Guthrie once again presents “A Territorial Christmas Carol” — an enchanted look at the classic Dickens Christmas tale — but with an Oklahoma frontier twist to it.

So enjoy this holiday season and please remember to check with our Calendar of Events for the best in Yule fun this year.

Page 2 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 3

Oklahoma’s New Deal Centennial planning meeting set in February It’s just 10 years until the NEW DEAL CENTENNIAL! The Oklahoma New Deal Centennial Planning Meeting on February 29th, 9:30am-3:00pm is a roundtable for stakeholders and individuals who care about Oklahoma’s CCC and WPA structures, art, and history.

The agenda will include speakers about Roosevelt’s New Deal projects in Oklahoma, historic site and preservation information, funding opportunities, and time to discuss statewide plans for the upcoming centennial.

The free event will be held at the 1936 WPA Armory that now houses the Edmond History Museum at Stephenson Park (431 S. Boulevard, Edmond, Oklahoma 73034). Lunch is on your own, with many food options within walking distance along 5th Street.

Register at EdmondHistory.org/product/CCCWPA Outcomes: · Create awareness about the upcoming Centennial of New Deal projects · Gather interested people who can develop a vision for promotions of CCC/WPA sites · Provide access to professionals

and resources that can assist in preservation and promotion of CCC/WPA projects · Showcase CCC/WPA site success stories to encourage new preservation projects · Form a committee to spearhead tourist activities for the future, which might include a travel passport, tourist map, public awareness materials, and centennial events beginning in 2033.

Recipients will receive “I Love My CCC/WPA” promotional materials and an informational packet. The event will be filmed to create a public video.

Special Thanks to the Oklahoma State Historical Preservation Office, with support from Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell and the Oklahoma History Center.

Other Partners: · Oklahoma Museum Association · Oklahoma State Parks · 45th Infantry Division Museum · Visit Edmond · Edmond Historic Preservation Trust · Osage Hills State Park Sponsored with funding from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Page 4 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Time running out on rebate If you want to take advantage of the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce and the Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) shopping rebate program, you need to move quickly. The two are Ray Hibbard partnering again to offer the Holiday Retail and Restaurant Rebate Program.

For every $50 you spend (rounded down) from November 24 through December 3 at an Edmond Chamber member restaurant or retailer, you will earn a $10 gift card to the business/businesses you support. This offer is good for up to $250 in spending which result in a maximum of $50 gift card. Receipts from the Edmond Chamber of Commerce members will be required.

Once funds are depleted, there is no guarantee of a gift card rebate, so submit your receipts as soon as you can.

Shoppers are limited to $50 in rebates per household, for total purchases of $250 and more. Receipts must be submitted by Monday, December 4th at 5 p.m.

You can always count on our Edmond Chamber and the EEDA to create programs that are not only helpful to their members but to the community as a whole. This weekend is your last chance.

For more details on the program or to upload receipts, visit Holiday Gift Card Rebate | Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce (edmondchamber.com) AT&T Expands 5G Network in Town of Arcadia Folks on the east side of Edmond have long complained that telemarketing companies have not provided enough support or coverage for that part of town. Continued Network Expansion Will Help Give AT&T Customers Better Access to Mobile Internet AT&T* continues to expand its 5G network in Oklahoma, giving residents, first responders, businesses and visitors a big boost in their wireless connectivity and helping them unlock the power of America’s Most Reliable 5G Network.

A new site in Arcadia improves coverage and capacity along North Post Road.

I’m told it is important for customers to stay connected. And AT&T 5G brings fast, reliable and secure connectivity to more than 290 million people in over 24,000 cities and towns nation-

wide. This helps Oklahoma’s residents and businesses get the best possible experience over the AT&T network wherever they live, work and play.

This new site also includes Band 14 spectrum, which is high-quality spectrum set aside by the federal government specifically for FirstNet®. We look at Band 14 as public safety’s VIP lane. In an emergency, this band – or lane – can be cleared and locked just for FirstNet subscribers. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity.

The AT&T commitment to Oklahoma communities: From 2020 to 2022, they invested nearly $925 million in wireless and wireline networks in Oklahoma. These investments boost reliability, coverage, speed and overall performance for residents and their businesses.

“Our Town of Arcadia offers the best of both worlds – close to the city with a rural, small-town lifestyle.

AT&T’s new site in our town will keep our residents, visitors and first responders better connected. We’re glad AT&T is investing here,” said Town of Arcadia Vice Mayor Marcus Woodard.

“At AT&T, we’re continuing to invest in our mobile broadband network in communities across Oklahoma to make connections easier for residents, visitors, businesses and first responders throughout our state, including our more rural communities. These investments add to the quality of life, commercial vitality, innovative spirit and economic competitiveness of the region and the state,” said Jan Moran, Area Manager-External Affairs, AT&T Oklahoma.

Visit oklahoma.att.com to learn more about how AT&T is supporting Oklahoma. For more about the value FirstNet is bringing to public safety, check out FirstNet.com.

40 Years Ago, AT&T Launched Commercial Cellular Service I do not even remember a time before I had my cell phone by my side.

Can you believe it has been 40 years since AT&T launched its cellular service? For billions of people around the world, the future started on Oct. 13, 1983 On Oct. 13, 1983, AT&T launched the first commercial cellular telephone service in Chicago. At the time, few realized how profoundly this technology would change – and benefit – our lives. As it turned out, cellular wasn’t just an incremental improvement. It was a new category that transformed communications.

The world in 1983. Remember payphones?

Reminder to anyone younger than I am: In 1983, phones were strictly for talking to people. And nobody thought of them as “something you take with you.” They were fixed in place, stationary – like appliances rather than devices. You made calls only from home or work or payphones. Even the first cell phones weren’t portable – but hard-wired into cars.

Nowadays, we don’t think twice about pulling out a phone to listen to podcasts at the gym, buy shoes in the backyard or send texts from anywhere.

But 40 years ago, these behaviors were the stuff of science fiction.

Slow progress at first Getting to that October launch in Chicago wasn’t easy. Way back in 1947, AT&T researcher Douglas Ring drafted the first concept for a cellular network – with calls automatically handed off from one “cell” to the next as callers moved from Point A to Point B. It was a visionary idea. But the microprocessors and electronic switching needed to make it a reality wouldn’t come along for a few more decades.

Rapid innovation ever since Compared to that slow start, what’s happened since in wireless is like a roller coaster ride of fast, continuous innovation.

Here’s why: Since 1983, AT&T has invested untold brainpower plus hundreds of billions of dollars to upgrade the network time and again.

Each time our network becomes more capable, major economic and technological benefits follow. You might think of that pioneering call in Chicago as the first page in an ongoing success story of network innovation fueling growth, productivity, new applica-

tions and the digital economy itself.

Each network “generation” is a force multiplier, enabling new technologies and helping to fuel economic prosperity.

The job of innovation is never done.

We’re already embedding pre-emptive security in networks and working with AST Space Mobile on 5G to unmodified smartphones via satellite. According to many analysts, the next decade is all about converged connectivity, which will be key to enabling mainstream AI and other breakthroughs.

The idea is that everything from appliances to wearables to cars aren’t just connected. They’re also fast becoming converged into a single wireless-broadband ecosystem tuned to your preferences wherever you are.

Take, for example, a car connected to the mobile network. It can know when you’re 10 minutes from home.

At that point, it could send a signal to your smart home system to turn on the lights and A/C. Your role: Just concentrate on driving.

And beyond that? Things become a bit hazier. Much is in the hands of creative developers to whom we’ve given open access to our network Application Programming Interfaces.

That’s a fancy way of saying they can build brilliant new applications directly into our network for consumers and businesses.

What’s not hazy is the role. No doubt, the AT&T wireless network will always be at the center of innovation – as it has been since that fall day in Chicago 40 years ago.

Our phones and their uses can be a pain sometimes and none of us like getting interrupted but honestly, I do not know how we would get by without them folks.

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

AT&T Representative Jan Moran, left, and Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Sherry Jordan, far right, welcome two area school superintendents to the education luncheon held in November, including Angela Grunewald, Edmond Schools superintendent left.

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- Weekend calendar ............................................................Pages 6 & 7.

---- Rotary Club busyr..............................................................Pages 8 & 9.

---- America’s inept Homeland Security director ............................Page 10.

---- New mural at Kickingbird Golf Course......................................Page 11.

---- Safety Village and Winter’s Night for kide................................Page 12.

---- George Gust and latest movie review ......................................Page 14.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com Production Deanne York Advertising Director Business Editor Alexx Reger 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 © 2023 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 5

Page 6 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

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

Nov. 13 Carlos Ardani, 39, of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Carlos Enrique Sub Pop, 42, of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Aflick Wayne Esa, 19 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Ryan James Berggen 18 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Kevin Demond Forbes, 32 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor first offense) domestic abuse assault (in the presence of a minor child) and possess firearm after conviction of felony.

Nov. 14 Lu Mingshan, 36 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.’ Omar Shereiff Dudley, 33 of Long Beach, Calif.

Transporting open container alcoholic beverage and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Chloe Abigail Grooms, 27 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned and shoplifting.

Gary Robert Childess, 30 of Edmond. Trespassing and shoplifting.

Terry Wayne Collins III, 24 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Douglas Allen Gregory, 57 of Edmond. (Felony) domestic abuse assault & battery.

Chad Wesley Schwerdtfeger, 51 homeless. Public intoxication.

Sean Keith Taylor, 42 of Oklahoma City. Felony DUI/APC. Jeremy Raymond Hammons, 45 of Edmond.

Prohibited crossing/pedestrian.

Nov. 15 Michael Angelo Smith, 35 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Syeda Masooma Abedi, 43 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Karen Jean Dubose, 44 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Clinton Lee Miller, 37 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Nov. 16 Craig Matthew Cossey, 55 of Edmond. (Felony) publication, distribution or participation of obscene material or child pornography — unsolicited mailings.

Jeannette Lynn Davis, 58 of Oklahoma City.

Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Nov. 17 Breezin Raine Griffin, 18 of Oklahoma City.

Public intoxication.

Dustin Lee Holliday, 29 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Brittney Nicole Waner, 35 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Edy Adolfo Hernandez-Lopez, 44 of Garland, Texas. Public intoxication.

Adrian Ramirez, 37 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Nov. 18 Syeda Masooma Abedi, 43 homeless. Six counts of failure to appear.

Jason Leroy Lawrence, 46 of Edmond. Unlawful for registered sex offender to reside within 200 feet of school, playground, park, child care facility and other locations and failure to comply with sex offender registry act.

Coleton Reed Crockett, 30 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Porfirio Gabina Quiej Chay, 32 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under

the influence of alcohol.

Carlo Donte Walker, 29 of Oklahoma City.

False personation of another, two counts possess CDS and failure to appear.

Merle Hollis Songer Jr., 43 of Norman. Driving without proper/valid driver’s license.

Ram Sai Lachubothu, 24 of Edmond. Shoplifting.

Sitharama Bhargav Thota, 22 of Edmond. Petit larceny.

Diego Israel Ovargas, 21 of Brenham, Texas.

Trespassing after being warned.

Charlie Lee Henry, 43 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Chad Wesley Schwerdtfeger, 31 homeless. Public intoxication.

Unique Aquarius Chykee Johnson, 24 of Spencer. Possess CDS, failure to maintain compulsory insurance, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, transport open container of intoxication beverage or beer, child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Nov. 19 Joseph Robert Rose, 26 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear.

Alesha Marie Harrison, 35 of Edmond. No proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Darreck Stallone Treat, 23 of Stillwater. Misdemeanor warrant.

Colton Levi Dyess, 32 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and felony DUI/APC. Corbyn Lamont Burden, 49 of Oklahoma City.

Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

Jose Buxnay, 31 of Oklahoma City. Driving without proper/valid driver’s license and speeding (16-20 mph over).

Kian Brooke Perkins, 42 of Guthrie, Public intoxication.

Weekend Calendar of Events, Nov. 30-Dec.3 -Weekend Calendar of Events Nov 30 – Dec 3 ---- In the Gallery ---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 ---2020 ---- Beginners Pickleball Club ---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Edmond Electric’s Luminance – An Enchanted Stroll ---- Ilya Yakushev ---- UCO College of Fine Arts and Design ---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- UCO WinterGlow ---- Holiday Stroll ---- Ugly Sweater Run ---- Dam Zombies Endurance Race ---- Riverwind Casino Events ---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events ---- Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale ---- PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market ---- A Territorial Christmas Celebration ---- NRHA Futurity Championship Show ---- Red Earth Treefest ---- Downtown in December ---- The Polar Express ---- Limo Holiday Lights Tours ---- Winter Glow ---- Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” ---- Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol ---- Myriad & Bright ---- Holiday Pop-Up Shops ---- Storyteller Theatre presents – Little Women: A Holiday Experience ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: A Very Merry Pops ---- Boys Ranch Town Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant ---- The Santa Market ---- Oklahoma Opry Christmas Show ---- Distinctive Homes Tour ---- Victorian Walk ---- Lights on Broadway ---- Saints Santa Run ---- Cowboy Christmas Parade ---- A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas

Location: Edmond History Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jul 1 – Sun, Dec 31; visitedmondok.com Beginners Pickleball Club Location: Kickingbird Pickleball Center Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sat, Dec 30; 8 – 10:30 a.m.; Free; edmondok.com

Dam Zombies Endurance Race Location: Arcadia Lake Extra Info: Sun, Dec 3; 9 a.m.; $40; runsignup.com

OKC Zoo Safari Lights Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11 – Sun, Jan 1; 5:30 – 11 p.m.; okczoo.org

Riverwind Casino Events Location: Riverwind Casino Extra Info: Sun, Dec 3: Pete Davidson @ 8 p.m.; riverwind.com

Edmond Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 4 – Mon, Jan 15; $10 ---- $14; edmondicerink.com Devon Ice Rink Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10 – Sat, Jan 29; Mon – Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1: Holiday Wine-Down Pint Night @ 6 – 9 p.m.; Sat, Dec 2: Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Holidays at the Museum @ 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Sat, Dec 2 ---- Sun, Dec 3: Signature Tour @ 1 – 2 p.m.; Sun, Dec 3: Cowboy Christmas Ball @ 5:30 – 9 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Edmond Electric’s Luminance – An Enchanted Stroll Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Fri, Nov 17 – Mon, Jan 1; 5 – 10 p.m.; edmondlights.com

Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Oct 6 – Tue Jan 2; tcaa.nationalcowboymuseum.org

Ilya Yakushev Location: Armstrong Auditiorium Extra Info: Tue, Nov 30; 7:30 p.m.; $35; armstrongauditorium.org

PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market Location: Northpark Mall Extra Info: Through Sun, Dec 24; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; pambeghana.org

UCO College of Fine Arts ad Design Location: UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre and Education Center (Room 211) Extra Info: Thu, Nov 30; Wind Symphony @ 7:30 p.m. in Mitchell Hall Theatre; Thu, Nov 30 – Sat, Dec 2; Short Play Festival @ 7:30 p.m. in Mitchell Education Center (room 211)

A Territorial Christmas Celebration Location: Historic District Downtown, Guthrie Extra Info: Sat, Nov 25 – Sat, Dec 9; guthriesterritorialchristmas.com

Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 16; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; edmondparks.com

Extra Information In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring Behnaz Sohrabian; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu ; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020

Ugly Sweater Run Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 5 – 7 p.m.; $18; edmondok.com

UCO WinterGlow Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO Nigh Center Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1; 6 – 9 p.m.; Free; uco.edu Holiday Stroll Location: Edmond History Museum Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 1 – 4 p.m.; Free; edmondhistory.org

NRHA Futurity Championship Show Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Extra Info: Thu, Oct 26 – Tue, Nov 21 – Sat, Dec 2; nrhafuturiety.com Red Earth Treefest Location: BancFirst Tower, OKC Extra Info: Wed, Nov 15 – Fri, Dec 29; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; redearth.org Downtown in December Location: Downtown OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 16 – Sun, Feb 4; various events; downtownindecember.com

See Calendar, Page 7

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 7

Calendar From Page 6 The Polar Express Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11 – Wed, Dec 27; Showtimes: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m.; oklahomarailwaymuseum.org Limo Holiday Lights Tours Location: Citywide, OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 23 – Sat, Dec 30; viplimo.net Winter Glow Location: Riversport OKC Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sat, Dec 30; Mon – Thu: 4 – 8 p.m.; Fri: 5 – 8 p.m.; Sat: 1 – 8 p.m.; Sun: 1 – 6 p.m.; riversportokc.org Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” Location: Lyric at the Plaza Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sun, Dec 24; Tue – Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri – Sun: 2 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 7 p.m.; lyrictheatreokc.com Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol Location: Pollard Theatre, 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sat, Dec 23; Thu & Fri: 8 p.m.; Sat: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; thepollard.org Myriad & Bright Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sun, Dec 24; myriadgardens.org Holiday Pop-Up Shops Location: 399 NW 10th St, OKC Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sun, Dec 17; okcpopups.com OKC Philharmonic presents: A Very Merry Pops Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1 – Sat, Dec 2; Fri: 8 p.m. & Sat: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; okcphil.org Boys Ranch Town Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant

Location: 5100 SE 33rd St, Edmond Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1 – Sun, Dec 3; 7 – 9 p.m.; obhc.org The Santa Market Location: OKC Fairgrounds Pavilion Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1 – Sat, Dec 2; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; sites.google.com Oklahoma Opry Christmas Show Location: AMC@UCO, 25 S Oklahoma Ave Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 3:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; oklahomaopry.ticketspice.com Lights on Broadway Location: Automobile Alley, OKC Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 3 – 7 p.m.; downtownindecember.com A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas Location: Cottonwoods Flats, Guthrie Extra Info: Sun, Nov 26 – Mon, Jan 1; Mon – Thu: 6 – 9 p.m.; Thu: 6 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 5 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 5 – 11:30 p.m.; Sun: 6 – 9 a.m.; travelok.com Storyteller Theatre presents – Little Women: A Holiday Experience Location: Harn Homestead Extra Info: Thu, Nov 30 – Sat Dec 9; Thu – Sun: 7 p.m.; additional performance Dec @ 2 p.m.; storytellersokc.com Distinctive Homes Tour Location: Historic Guthrie Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; guthriesterritorialchristmas.com Victorian Walk Location: Downtown Historical District Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 12 ---- 9 p.m.; guthriesterritorialchristmas.com Saints Santa Run Location: 1000 N Lee Ave, OKC Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 8 – 10:30 a.m.; downtownindecember.com Cowboy Christmas Parade Location: Historic Stockyards City Extra Info: Sat, Dec 2; 10 a.m.; stockyardscity.org

Page 8 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Please shop locally this holiday season

Rotary Club of Edmond helps out with major autumn events Rotary Club of Edmond continued a busy Autumn season of service by volunteering at the city’s premier biking event Cycle 66, having fun with trickor-treaters at Edmond’s community trunk-or-treat event and serving hot chocolate at Deck the Downtown.

Three members participated by dressing up, decorating their booth with a festive theme, and handed out yummy treats to a huge crowd at the annual Trunk or Treat event at Mitch Park.

The event took place on Saturday, October 28 at the Multi Activity Center in Mitch Park.

“It was estimated that thousands of people in and around the Edmond community came out to the event.

We handed out several buckets of candy and had great community engagement. It was a great opportunity for Rotary to help bring smiles and holiday entertainment to so many families.”

Besides enjoying decorated booths and candy, children played games, and had lots of food truck options at the free event.

-The City of Edmond became a bicycle enthusiast’s perfect place to hit the Mother Road on Sunday, November 5, 2023. More than 700 cyclists from 12 states enjoyed top-notch touring and racing, and experienced a place known for its active community full of local merchants waiting to share in

the fun and adventure.

Rotary Club of Edmond members volunteered at the 3rd Annual Cycle 66 SAG wagon along historic Route 66 which provided food, drink and other assistance to cyclists in need.

One club member brought boys from The Genesis Project, a local residential treatment center for abused boys, to volunteer. The event helped the boys learn to return the favor of support to a community that cares for them throughout the year.

Jennifer Thornton, Rotarian, Cycle 66 Board Chair and Edmond Tourism Director, said the event was a success.

"This is one of the best events in Edmond. We’re riding for a purpose and gearing up for the Route 66 Centennial in 2026.” The Cycle 66 urban/rural bicycling tour began and ended in downtown Edmond, featuring four distinct routes and a criterium race. All registration fees were donated to three charities: Oklahoma Route 66 Association, Bike Club and the Velo Cycling Club.

-Starting a new tradition, the City of Edmond hosted a Deck the Downtown and Festival Marketplace on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. Many people showed up to see the lighting of the Christmas tree and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, crafts, photos with Mr. & Mrs. Clause and more. Six Rotarians served over 650 cups of hot chocolate to those in attendance.

See Photos, Page 9

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 9

Boys from The Genesis Project residential treatment center hand out Cycle 66 patches to participants of the event’s criterium race. By volunteering, they learned to give back to a community that gives to them. The event was held Nov. 5 in downtown Edmond.

Rotarians serve hot chocolate at the recent Deck the Downtown.

Page 10 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side Lankford wishes to honor Mayorkas totally inept “Well, senator. The subject of the

By Steve Gust WWII Oklahoma sailor sun is a very important issue for this Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana had an interesting line the other day while questioning Alejandro Mayorkas, who allegedly leads the Department of Homeland Security.

I say allegedly because he’s failed miserably at securing the southern border. Because of that, he’s been called to numerous congressional hearings to answer for his failures.

Both the House and the Senate grill the man regularly. It’s a miracle Mayorkas hasn’t been impeached.

He’s truly inept. I don’t know how government officials like Mayorkas, and even Biden, aren’t criminally charged for ignoring immigration law and putting America at grave danger by allowing in people we know nothing about. Of course those kind of legal decisions are made by Merrick Garland – another inept Biden appointee.

And Mayorkas must have been born a politician. He’s the kind of fellow who can talk and talk and never say anything. For instance, theoretically a senator could ask Mayorkas if the sun will come out tomorrow morning. This is how Mayorkas would answer that question.

administration. We have experts weighing in on the sun all the time.

But a lot of that is confidential and we can’t discuss it.”

Also recognizing Mayorkas’ stonewalling is Sen. Kennedy. He asked Mayorkas a question and told the director two or three times that it was only a “yes” or ‘no” response.

When Mayorkas ignored that, Kennedy interrupted him. “Pardon sir but you need to answer the question directly. And no disrespect, but you are the kind of a person who takes an hour and half to watch “60 Minutes.”

— We all saw a grim anniversary last week – 60 years since President Kennedy was assassinated.

If you were alive then, you know how terribly sad that was.

Looking back now, the security measures may not have been the best.

I really hope the nation never has to go through something like that ever again.

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

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today led the Oklahoma congressional delegation in a letter to Secretary of the United States Navy Carlos Del Torro to recommend the naming of a new Constellation-class frigate in honor of Oklahoman Paul Henry Carr, from Checotah, Oklahoma, who gave his last full measure of devotion to our nation aboard the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in World War II. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and Representatives Frank Lucas (ROK), Tom Cole (R-OK), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Kevin Hern (R-OK), and Josh Brecheen (R-OK) joined Lankford in stating in their letter that this ship naming would be, “a fitting tribute to a true hero and serve as an inspiration for future generations of sailors.”

The full letter isd below: Dear Secretary Del Toro, We write to urge you to consider naming one of the new Constellationclass frigates in honor of Paul Henry Carr, a brave sailor and native son of Checotah, Oklahoma, who valiantly served and sacrificed his life aboard the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413)

during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in World War II. Paul Carr was more than just a sailor; he embodied courage and dedication. As the gun captain of the aft 5inch gun mount, he played a pivotal role. On October 25, 1944, during the Battle off Samar — a key engagement within the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of history's most significant naval battles that occurred in the Philippines — Carr fought valiantly until his last breath, ensuring his crew and ship had the best possible defense. His valor and commitment were recognized posthumously with the awarding of the Silver Star.

In recognition of Carr’s brave actions, the US Navy commissioned the USS Carr (FFG-52) in 1985. This ship proudly bore his name until its decommissioning in March 2013. It stands as a testament to Carr's legacy that the recent discovery of the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) in the depths of Leyte Gulf includes photos of the aft gun mount, which confirms the tale of his courageous actions and his ultimate sacrifice.

The US Navy has a long-standing tradition of naming ships after naval leaders, heroes, and significant figures.

Given Paul Carr's notable service and the impact of his sacrifice, it seems fitting to immortalize his name on one of the new frigates. While the naming of the first four ships in the Constellation-class — Constellation (FFG-62), Congress (FFG-63), Chesapeake (FFG64), and Lafayette (FFG-65) — don't provide a clear naming convention for the class, we urge the consideration of historic Navy figures like Paul Henry Carr. With a total of 20 Constellationclass frigates planned for procurement, this presents a perfect opportunity to honor Carr's memory and service once again.

Lastly, we want to emphasize that our strong advocacy for naming a ship after Carr does not diminish our respect or endorsement of other potential names being considered. With a fleet of 20 frigates, there is ample opportunity to recognize numerous deserving individuals.

We humbly urge you to consider naming one of the new Constellationclass frigates in honor of the gallant Paul Henry Carr. We genuinely believe that doing so would be a fitting tribute to a true hero.

Virtual Catholic school no threat

By Brian Bobek, Nellie Tayloe Sanders and Scott Strawn Oklahoman.com The Statewide Virtual Charter School Board’s recent vote approving St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School was rooted in two ideas: a state’s constitutional duty to treat religious groups fairly, and the benefits of new educational opportunities for parents seeking alternatives to traditional district schools.

The first recognizes that discrimination based on religion is unlawful religious discrimination; the second, that one-size-fits-all solutions in education do not work.

Members of the board volunteer because we care about the quality of the education kids receive in Oklahoma. Reasonable people of good faith can respectfully and passionately disagree — especially on complex matters of constitutional law. Unfortunately, passions from both sides in these discussions have moved beyond disagree-

ment to mutual vilification. Accusations and false narratives rule the day.

The state’s attorney general has filed a lawsuit against us in the Oklahoma Supreme Court, saying our vote violated our oath of office. In fact, it’s our commitment to that oath that wouldn’t allow us to discriminate against a Catholic applicant (a religious minority), simply because they are Catholic.

Still, our attorney general sees our vote as an existential threat to religious liberty. It’s not, for several reasons.

One, in opening up charter school grants to other private organizations, the state inevitably opened those grants to religious groups, as well.

The U.S. Supreme Court, in cases like Trinity Lutheran Church of Columbia v. Comer, has repeatedly affirmed that offering government support to secular groups but not to religious ones is unconstitutional. If Oklahoma did not want to fund religious charter schools, the only legal public policy solution would be to stop funding all

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.

charter schools.

Two, no student is being forced to attend St. Isidore any more than they’re being compelled to attend any charter school. For families, this school is another option, not an ultimatum. No one’s being required to convert to Catholicism, and, again, any other group — whether religious or secular — is equally welcome to develop a charter school grounded on its own principles.

Three, while these charter schools are labeled “public” institutions because they’re sponsored by the state, they are, in fact, operated privately — and the U.S. Supreme Court has determined that to be a crucial difference. No public school teachers are being urged to spout religious views and doctrine; no children are being forced to embrace the faith. There’s no violation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.

Freedom to choose is the hallmark of liberty.

Not every family wants a faith-based education for its children. Families that do should have that option, as surely as families who want a stronger arts or science curriculum for their kids should be able to send them to a school that provides such programs.

Traditional brick-and-mortar, district-based schools are the core of our educational system. We believe our state should continue the funding improvements made over the last several years, so that schools of all types can flourish ensuring that our state’s diverse learning needs are met. By law, charter schools are not allowed to charge tuition, making them excellent alternatives for those who cannot afford a private school education.

Brian Bobek, Nellie Tayloe Sanders and Scott Strawn are all members of the Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board who voted in favor of St. Isidore. The board is being represented in the current legal action by Alliance Defending Freedom.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 11

‘Be Bright’ mural —- gifted to the city and Kickingbird Golf Course.

New mural added at K-Bird Golf Course

By Steve Steele A “Be Bright” mural has been added to the south wall of the driving range pavilion at KickingBird Golf Course. It was unveiled earlier this month as a gift to the City of Edmond from Taylor Moore and Valspar, the sponsor of the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship played at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, FL near Tampa.

The March 2023 Tournament was won by Edmond native Taylor Moore. Moore chose KickingBird to be the home of the mural because of his time spent as a junior golfer there and his relationship with KickingBird Director of Golf Brian Soerensen, who first met Taylor there when Moore was 10 years old. The mural depicts a golfer taking instruction from an adult, children playing, a parent with a child on its shoulders, The Edmond Sun Newspaper, which was started by Milton”Kicking Bird” Reynolds.

The handshake on the mural depicts Reynolds shaking the hand of a Kiowa chief. Reynolds Park is the location of KickingBird Golf Course and the current pickleball centerthere.

Valspar began the mural program in 2020 and paints one in the Tampa Bay area and one at the location chosen by the winner of the tournament each year.

Moore, playing a few groups in front of the final group of Adam Shenk and Jordan Speith made clutch birdies and par saves on the final nine holes of the 72 hole event to clip Shenk by a shot and Speith and Tommy Fleetwood by two shots for his first PGA Tour victory. The win propelled Moore to a top 30 FedEx Cup finish in August.

The artist for the mural was Rhiana Deck, of the Choctaw Nation, who has many works in the OKC

Metro area. Her work has been displayed and exhibited in Oklahoma, Colorado and Georgia. Deck collaborated with Moore, Copperhead Charities and Valspar. Copperhead Charities raises funds for Tampa area charities. Representing Copperhead Charities at the unveiling were NFL Hall of Famer Ronde Barber and John Astrab, both are Co-General Chairmen of the Board. Also on hand were Valspar Tournament Director Tracy West and Valspar Brand Manager Sara Hackney. “We wanted to find a way to use our paint to connect with communities,” West said. “We wanted to inspire and find a way for people to enjoy the paint outside their homes in different ways. It has really been a unique initiative for us.”

Valspar and the Valspar Championship donated the mural and also $10,000 to the City of Edmond and KickingBird Golf Course. As Soerensen accepted the surprise check he let the crowd on hand know that those funds would be used to support junior golf at the facility. Moore said he saw the first draft of the mural and was very pleased with the outcome and execution of the painting by Deck and grateful for Valspar and Copperhead Charities support. The mural is located just north of the 10th Tee box and is visible from the 1st and 10th tee boxes, the large practice putting green and the 18th green.

So far, the new KickingBird has been a big hit with the public and “The Lookout” Restaurant has been swamped for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

“The food is excellent” said Soerensen. “What has been surprising is more than half the restaurant guests have not been golfers but people who are enjoying the food, the atmosphere and the views from up here.”

Page 12 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Mural Dedication On hand for the mural dedication at Kickingbird Golf Course were, from left, Melinda Moore, Lexi (Taylor’s fiancé), Tracy West, Taylor Moore, Sara Hackney and Rod Moore. See article, Page 12

The University of Central Oklahoma's Jackson College of Graduate Studies (JCGS) hosted its seventh annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) research competition.

Julie Kellogg, a doctoral student in the Swansea@UCO Ph.D. program from Edmond, Oklahoma, won first place and $1,000 prize for her presentation titled "Can a Happy Childhood Change the World?" Pictured, Kellogg and Matthew Hollrah, Ph.D., JCGS associate dean

Julie Kellogg wins thesis competition The University of Central Oklahoma's Jackson College of Graduate Studies (JCGS) recently hosted its seventh annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) research competition. Contestants must present their thesis research to a panel of judges who are from the Oklahoma City metro business community, in three minutes or less, using only one presentation slide and everyday language.

Julie Kellogg, a doctoral student in the Swansea@UCO Ph.D. program from Edmond, won first place and a $1,000 prize for their 3MT presentation titled "Can a Happy Childhood Change the World?"

Meghan Nguyen, a graduate history major from Guthrie, received second place and a $500 prize for their presentation titled "Education Policy and Reform in the State of Oklahoma after 1960: The Achievement Gaps of Minority Student Populations." Nguyen also won this year's People's Choice Award and a $250 prize.

Children’s Safety Village Dec. 1 & 8 Children can meet Santa and build in his workshop!

The Edmond Fire Department invites the public to come out and enjoy a Winter’s Night at the Children’s Safety Village on Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free to the public with most activities geared for children ages 10 and under.

Families will want to bring a camera because Santa himself will be available for pictures on an antique 1929 Fire Truck. Other activities include face painting, carnival games and much more at no charge!

Guests will be welcomed by free hot chocolate as they enter the village which has been transformed by festive Christmas lights. From there, children have an opportunity to build a toy in Santa’s Workshop and ride pedal cars! Attendees are encouraged to bring a canned food item for Project 66, which feeds the hungry, or a gift for donation to Integris Children’s Center. A list of items needed can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1QE4FIRLVFNKL?ref_=wl_fv_le&pldnSite=1 Hangry Halo Donut Co will provide a special holiday menu for purchase at this event! The Children’s Safety Village is located adjacent to Fire Station #5 at 5300 East Covell Road, just east of I-35. The village consists of a complete miniature city including buildings, traffic signals, a park, streets and vehicles.

Regular programs focus on life-safety education where children can learn in a hands-on environment.

For more information about this event or other programming at the Children’s Safety Village please call 216-7300 or email FirePrevention@edmondok.gov.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 13

Pete Reeser

Pete Reeser, a true example of the American Dream, passed away peacefully Saturday, November 18th. The family man and REALTOR had been a fixture of the Edmond community since relocating from Iowa in 1964.

Pete’s steadfast commitment to his city could be seen in his public improvement advocacy, his attention to detail in the buildings he brought to life, and his early investments in the expansion of Downtown Edmond.

Pete could regularly be found holding court at his beloved Around the Corner restaurant, so much so that the establishment immortalized him, adding “Pete’s Special” to the menu this year. (Editor’s note: The family does recommend checking out the other specials offered by the quintessentially Edmond eatery, as Pete’s Special mainly reflects Pete’s very specific tastebuds.)

If he wasn’t at Around the Corner, you could surely find Pete behind his desk on Campbell Street, anchoring his real estate business in the heart of Downtown Edmond.

And, if for some reason he wasn’t at either of those institutions, Pete was probably down the street volunteering at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

A man of many talents and interests, nothing was more important to him than his faith, his family, his business, and his community.

Pete was born March 23, 1935 in Maynard, Iowa to Ward and Emily Reeser. He had one brother Duane, who proceeded him in death. He graduated from Maynard High School & attended Upper Iowa University.

His life truly began when he met Betty Lou Recker and married her shortly after. The industrious pair made their first home in Olwein, Iowa and had 4 children, Brad, Carla, Steve, and Kirk.

As a milkman for the Carnation Milk Company, Pete crushed the competing small dairies in his new territory, dominating the local market by signing a huge number of grocery stores and home deliveries. The smaller dairies filed a lawsuit against Carnation, resulting in the company completely abandoning Pete’s milk route territory, and leaving him ready to shift gears.

Around this time, Pete heard a rumor about Oklahoma being a land of opportunity. So, in the summer of 1963, he and Betty decided to move to Oklahoma City. They relocated to Edmond the following year and there raised their four children.

The family joined St. John the Baptist Catholic parish, and the children attended Edmond Public Schools.

Pete was hired on with the Sears, Roebuck and Company Store on 23rd and Pennsylvania in the stereo and record department, where he

flourished from sales to management. Working at SEARS became a family affair, when Betty went to work at the Downtown Edmond Sears Catalogue store, and the kids joining later.

The family continued working in their various positions at Sears until Pete left in 1978 to start a new career. As Pete told his children, “You’ll never create wealth with a W2”, so he ventured to become his own boss. Following Betty’s lead, Pete was licensed and went to work as a REALTOR in 1978 with Edmond’s RE/MAX franchise, and his first sale in his first week.

Pete had clearly found his niche, but he missed working with his family. He encouraged his children to explore the real estate business as well, knowing the strong work ethic he instilled in his children would make them perfect for the job.

Brad was the first to join the business, followed quickly by son-in-law Joe Pribble, and then son Steve Reeser. Eventually, 10 members of the family he created would be licensed REALTORS in the State of Oklahoma, and most of them working out of the very offices Pete built.

Finding opportunity with Keller Williams, Pete became very involved in leadership, and helped to establish new offices serving Oklahoma City and popular resort destination, Broken Bow. Pete’s 45-year real estate career was illustrious winning him many accolades and earning as many special designations behind his name as the National Association of REALTORS offers.

He volunteered his time to nearly every single committee at the Edmond Board of REALTORS and served as President of the Board in 1993.

That same year he was named EBR’s REALTOR of the Year.

Nationally, he served on the NAR Board of Directors from 1996-1999 and the NAR Housing Needs Committee from 1997-2000.

Believing in his industry, he became a supporter of the REALTOR Political Action Committee in 1984, and had been a Major Investor in the fund since 2013.

In 2000, his commitments and achievements were recognized by the Edmond Board, winning their highest distinction, the Lifetime Achievement Award.

In 2018, his 40-year career was recognized by the National Association of REALTORs, as he was named REALTOR Emeritus.

Pete’s involvement in the community ranged from sitting on the Parish Council and the Finance Committee of St. John the Baptist, to coaching his sons’ baseball teams, to serving on various committees for the City of Edmond, to being an active member in many local professional organizations, including Edmond AMBUCS.

His commitment to his community was recognized by being added to the Edmond Historical Society’s Roll of Honor in 2019, and Pete’s particular brand of boldness was recognized by the City of Edmond in late 2020, being named a Champion of Character for Courage by the City Council.

Nominated by then Councilman Josh Moore, Moore said of him: “Pete has never backed down from a challenge that requires courage,” and how true that was.

Pete faced a number of obstacles in his lifetime in business and in his personal life, but his unique combination of stubbornness, tenacity, courage, and humor allowed him to bounce back and come out on top every single time.

Pete sited one source of inspiration was watching his daughter, Carla, bravely fight a 9 1/2 year battle with breast cancer. Carla’s motto, “Never Give In” became his mantra as well.

When Betty became ill with dementia in 2008, he again displayed his signature brand of support and unwavering commitment as the disease progressed.

In 2011, Pete married Kathy Reeser and she remained his companion for the last 12 years of his life. Together they traveled, worked, and enjoyed their family.

In recent years, Pete began to physically succumb to his age, losing his vision and eventually becoming bound to a wheelchair. His physical limitations did nothing to dull his vision for his family business, as he was still building duplexes, negotiating leases, and directing the day-to-day details from his room at the Veraden. Because of that vision, he created a family business that will last generations.

He is survived by sons Brad, Steve, and Kirk Reeser, grandchildren: Brett & Paige Pribble, Adam Wanner, Aly Schuster, Chase, and Carlee Reeser, great-grandchildren: Isabelle Pribble, Ava, Jojo, & Jaxon Wanner, and Reeser & Vonn Schuster. He is also survived by Kathy Reeser and her extended family.

The Reeser family would especially like to thank those instrumental in his care for the last few years including Dr. Brian Levy and all of the ladies at Faith, Hope, & Love Companion Care.

A come & go celebration of life with refreshments will be held 6:00pm Monday, Nov. 27th in the Great Hall at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 10:00 AM Tuesday, Nov. 28th also at St. John’s.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Sister BJ’s Pantry, Project 66 Food Pantry, or charity of your choosing. To donate, visit their websites: https:// srbjpantry.org/ and https://www.project66.org/.

We are forever inspired by your legacy. Our prayers are with the Reeser family, Citizens Bank of Edmond

Page 14 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Movie review of ‘Wish’

Disney film good but far from great

By George Gust If you’re a parent with a Disney+ membership you’re acutely aware that this year marks the 100 year anniversary of the Walt Disney Company. And with these hallmark celebrations of cinematic longevity, the creative minds behind the cinematic victory lap get a kick out of paying homage to their history with Easter eggs for eagle-eyed fans.

The most egregious of which can be found in the James Bond 40th anniversary film “Die Another Day” where Bond walks through and fidgets with some of the iconic gadgets of the past apropos of nothing to do with the film. “Wish” is another example of filmmakers getting too excited about the round number of 100 and paying homage to the films of the past while making a movie for today that pales in comparison to the Disney princess tradition.

“Wish” follows a young girl named Asha (Ariana DeBose) who wishes on a star and gets a more direct answer than she bargained for when a trouble-making star comes down from the sky

Answers on Page 19

to join her.

“Wish” feels like a movie with a checklist of story beats and character types with some catchy music sprinkled throughout-for better and worse. At its best the interesting animation style new to the Disney princess world works well to create the family friendly uplifting scenes that are familiar to the genre and are one of the main reasons why these types of stories resonate with generations of audiences. At its worst, the

movie feels like a half-hearted corporate mandated film that lacks a personal drive and artistic direction. The amount of characters and storylines they wanted pack into “Wish” resulted in a world that was underdeveloped and a strange pacing that ultimately felt too rushed.

Overall, for all its faults “Wish” does deliver a family friendly movie going experience with a talented cast and music that while it doesn’t stand above the best tunes in the Disney catalogue is still able to resemble the magic of the Disney princess movies of old. The main issue with “Wish” is that all of the elements were there for a successful return and playful send up to the tried-and-true Disney musical formula, but when they’re put together without love and artistic vision it ends up falling flat without the pull to rewatch again and again.

“Wish” is rated PG for thematic elements and mild action.

2.7 out of 5 stars (You may reach George Gust for comment at gust.george@gmail.com)

PHOTO PROVIDED

‘Wish’ finds Disney wishing upon a star for another box office hit in their 100-year anniversary. Unfortunately it’s had mixed results.

Art exhibit opens at OKC Museum The Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) last week announced the opening of Magnificent Beauty: Georgia O’Keeffe and the Art of the Flower, a can’tmiss exhibition, on March 9, 2024. This original exhibition organized by OKCMOA puts one of the artist’s most iconic subjects, the flower, in a new context.

“Magnificent Beauty: Georgia O'Keeffe and the Art of the Flower explores how artists, including one of America’s most beloved painters, O’Keeffe, have depicted the flower, and particularly the lily, in striking and thought-provoking ways," said President and CEO Michael Anderson, PhD. Five works by O'Keeffe, including the Museum’s own Calla Lily (Lily - Yellow No. 2), will be featured .

A Sustainers’ Behindthe-Scenes event on December 13 will feature a preview of the new acquisitions by Ruscha, Alen MacWeeney, Donna Ferrato, Joel Meyerowitz, Ethel Fisher, and more.

This is an exclusive event for OKCMOA Sustainer members. Visit okcmoa.com/membership or call 405.278.8207 to join or upgrade your current membership.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Math 101

ACROSS 1. Loaded up 6. Tube in old TV 9. Pouches 13. Tequila source 14. Stick in water 15. Jig's French cousin 16. TV's "____ Secretary" 17. Money in Myanmar 18. Photoshop maker 19. *Result of multiplication 21. *Whole number 23. *Say 2+2 is 5, e.g.

24. Arctic floater 25. Dashboard acronym 28. Fountain serving 30. Spanky or Alfalfa 35. Short for "hurry up" 37. Live bait 39. Turn upside down 40. Cassette contents 41. Retire from military, for short 43. Jason's vessel 44. Sicker 46. "Sight for ____ eyes" 47. Puppy cry 48. Denver option, at a diner 50. Apartment 52. Green turtle's domain 53. Final 55. Personal trainer's place of employment 57. *Venn ____ 61. *Point in 2.5 65. Barrel racing meet 66. Gobbled up 68. On the rocks (2 words) 69. *Fields Medal to a mathematician, e.g.

70. Sports official, for short 71. 8 of something 72. Like Gulf Stream 73. Big bang maker 74. Required things DOWN 1. "I lift my ____ beside the golden door" 2. Petri dish gel 3. Carpenter's groove

4. Dodge, as in tax bill 5. Takes exception to 6. Native Egyptian, in Roman times 7. *Line with one endpoint 8. Path in the woods 9. Left or right, e.g.

10. Awestruck 11. *Three-dimensional figure with 6 square faces 12. Palm reader, e.g.

15. Cake with filling 20. Three people?

22. Neither here ____ there 24. Subcontract (2 words) 25. *1:2, e.g.

26. Sacred song 27. Canada's favorite tree?

29. "Nobody ____ It Better" 31. Fix a cat 32. First discovered asteroid 33. *Measured in degrees 34. Parkinson's disease drug

36. Banana remnant 38. Between dawn and noon 42. Brown shade 45. Retread, past tense 49. Non-alcoholic brew 51. Rockefeller or Bezos 54. Like today's phone 56. Kind of pie 57. No-win situation 58. Wisconsin neighbor 59. Jewish month of Purim 60. Disease-causing organism 61. Clever 62. Indoor allergy cause 63. Crushed it, as in a test 64. "____ Make a Deal" 67. *X

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 15

Page 16 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Francis Tuttle board seat has filing period next month Francis Tuttle Technology Center’s Board of Education announced Dec. 4 through Dec. 6, 2023, as the candidate filing period for election to its zone four school board seat.

This board seat serves a five-year term and covers the Western Heights School District and the southern portion of the Putnam City School District. Statutorily qualified individuals interested in running for the Board of Education may file at the Oklahoma County Election Board between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Dec. 4 to Dec. 6, 2023.

The primary election will be held Feb. 13, 2024. The general election, if necessary, is set for April 2, 2024.

Francis Tuttle’s district includes portions of Oklahoma, Canadian, Logan and Kingfisher counties and serves students from Cashion, Crescent, Deer Creek, Edmond, Putnam City and Western Heights school districts.

Francis Tuttle Technology Center serves high school students and adults in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area with career-specific train-

ing, in support of developing and maintaining a quality workforce for the region. Francis Tuttle also offers complete workforce and economic development training and consulting services, and short-term training for career development or personal enrichment.

With four locations in Oklahoma City and Edmond, Francis Tuttle offers central Oklahoma diverse training programs in fulfillment of the school’s mission to prepare customers for success in the workplace.

More information is available at francistuttle.edu.

——The Board of Education of Edmond Public School District hereby announces that statutorily qualified individuals interested in running as a candidate for the #4 seat on the Edmond Board of Education may file to run as a candidate for this seat at the Oklahoma County Election Board between the hours of 8am and 5pm on each of the following days: Monday, December 4, 2023 through Wednesday, December 6, 2023.

A groundbreaking held recently for the next St. Jude’s Dream Home.

Plans under way for next St. Jude’s Dream Home Above, Epsilon Sigma Alpha members with Joe Antis, the president of Shaw Homes, at groundbreaking for new St. Jude Dream Home.

Every ticket sold for a chance to win the home, helps St. Jude kids and the mission of St. Jude: "Finding cures. Saving children.” And because of the support of the public, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food—so they can focus on helping their child live.

More than 40 home giveaways will occur across the United States this

year. In Oklahoma Shaw Homes has worked building homes with St. Jude for the last seven years. They have been a trusted name in the housing industry since 1985. Over 200 people will contribute to building this year’s Dream Home.

Oklahoma’s Epsilon Sigma Alpha chapters volunteered 874 hours manning the Open Houses for the Dream Home this last year.

Be sure to buy a $100 ticket this year when ticket sales begin in June, 2024 because all the money raised goes to support St. Jude.

Engagement, Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com.

We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph.

Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 17

Construction tips that can save money

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready Homeowners insurance premiums are rising throughout the country due to catastrophic storms, reinsurance costs and inflation, among other factors. Construction costs are also climbing, with spending on private residential construction climbing to $872 billion in September 2023 from $866.6 billion in August, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Given the current insurance market and high construction prices, I think now’s the time to talk about lowering insurance premiums when building a new home or renovating your current one.

Before diving in, it is critically important to understand the difference between actual cash value and replacement value. Replacement value coverage pays the cost of replacing your damaged property or home, including materials and labor needed to rebuild, while actual cash value coverage pays replacement cost minus depreciation. If parts of your house are old or in poor condition, like your roof, they might only be eligible for actual cash value. A new roof would often qualify for replacement coverage. Regardless of if you’re renovating or building, you will need to make sure your current or future policy provides adequate coverage. With that said, here are three ways you can save on your premium down the road.

Use strong building materials.

A big way to save on home insurance premiums is using fortified materials. Structures built with brick instead of wood will result in lower premiums. Additionally, some companies offer lower premiums to homes built with class 3 or 4 shingles and other roofing materials, which are more impact resistant. Many companies will give a 25% discount if you have class 4 shingles. Reach out to

your insurance company when renovating to see what building materials are eligible. If you’re considering building your home, research insurance companies and look for recommended materials to incorporate into your construction plans.

Make your home more disaster resistant.

When building or renovating, making your home more resistant to disasters can help lower your premium. If you’re renovating, this includes reinforcing your roof to protect it from hail or heavy snow and ice and installing storm shutters to protect against strong winds. Additionally, consider modernizing your heating, plumbing and electrical systems to reduce the risk of fire and water damage. If you’re building, make sure you are using the most up-todate materials and methods in these areas.

Install additional security and warning systems.

Increased security can help lower premiums since theft or break-ins are less likely. Some lower-

The home furnishings experts

A look at the success of Amini’s Galleria

By Alexx Reger EL&L Business Editor Amini’s Galleria off Memorial Road is a family owned company that made its start when owner Mack Amini opened the store in 1975. He saw a need in the community for high quality products and 100 percent service before and after the sale.

At Amini’s you can find all sorts of varieties of home furnishings such as pool tables, rugs, pinball and arcade machines, outdoor furniture, game room furniture and more. They also carry a line of sauna’s including both traditional and infrared.

Rosinna Gies, General Manager, includes that product knowledge on all of their products and their sales and service teams’ willingness to help solve the customer’s problems is what sets them apart from the rest.

If you are looking to complete or upgrade that game room or den, or

even update your outdoor patio furniture Amini’s has all of the items and amenities you will need and the team is ready to help make your dreams come true!

While shopping at Amini’s you can even knock out that perfect Christmas gift for that special someone that is certain to make them smile.

In the future, Amini’s Galleria will be adding new toys and products to enhance your home. So be on the lookout!

Amini’s Galleria is located at 525 W. Memorial Road in Oklahoma City which makes it easy to get to from any direction in Edmond.

“We have what you are looking for! If we don’t have it, we can get it, and if we can’t get it, then it probably isn’t made,” Gies adds gleefully.

Check out Amini’s Galleria today!

For more information call 405-7222400 or visit www.aminis.com.

cost options include installing deadbolts and new smoke detectors throughout your home or construction. If you want additional help in this area, think about purchasing an advanced home security system that includes an alarm. Some insurance companies lower premiums for homes equipped with smart home technology, like security cameras, remote lighting and access controls. Check with your insurance company to see what technology qualifies your home for discounts.

With rising costs to build and insure homes, consumers are looking for ways to save money. By thinking about your construction or renovation plans from a risk mitigation perspective, you can save money on your home insurance premiums. Always remember that the Oklahoma Insurance Department is here to help if you have questions or need to file a complaint against your insurance company. You can visit our website at www.oid.ok.gov/consumers or contact our Consumer Assistance Team at 1-800-522-0071.

Page 18 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

AAA’s advice on how shoppers can avoid road rage problems Millions will be out shopping this holiday season. AAA has traffic safety and safe shopping reminders to ensure everyone has an enjoyable shopping experience.

“Traffic will be heavy around malls and shopping centers,” said Rylie Fletcher, public affairs manager, AAA Oklahoma. “It’s vitally important that motorists and pedestrians alike practice patience, avoid distractions and keep aggression in check while navigating parking lots and roadways.”

Data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that nearly 80 percent of drivers expressed significant anger, aggression or road rage behind the wheel at least once within the previous 30 days. In a related study, the Foundation found potentially aggressive actions―such as tailgating, erratic lane changing or illegal passing―are a factor in up to 56% of fatal crashes.

“Motorists are reminded not to let emotions lead to destructive choices,” said Fletcher. “Don’t risk es-

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Hi and Lois

Blondie

Shoe

Hägar the Horrible

Zits

calating a situation. You never know how the other driver might react. Instead, maintain a cool head and focus on reaching your destination safely.”

As motorists head out to capture deals, the National Safety Council warns that tens of thousands of crashes occur in parking lots and garage structures annually, resulting in hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries.

AAA offers these tips to help prevent road rage: • Don’t Offend: Avoid forcing another driver to use their brakes or turn the steering wheel in response to something you have done. Follow traffic laws and practice courteous behavior behind the wheel.

• Be Tolerant and Forgiving: Assume that another driver’s actions are nothing personal. The other driver may just be having a really bad day.

Remember, your job is not to correct

See Rage, Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 30, 2023 • Page 19

Rage From Page 18 or police others on their driving behaviors. Your job is to reach your destination safely.

• Do Not Respond: Avoid eye contact, don’t make gestures and maintain space around your vehicle. If you feel another driver is targeting you with their aggressive behavior, call 911 if needed.

—— AAA is also sounding the alarm about pedestrian safety this holiday season―and all year long.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian strikes nationwide reached a 40-year high in 2022, with over 7,500 pedestrians killed by vehicle strikes. The number of pedestrians killed by drivers surged 19% just in the last three years.

“Injuries and fatalities can spike this season simply due to the sheer number of shoppers determined to beat the crowd to the best sales of the season rather than focusing on where they are driving or walking,” said Fletcher. “Pedestrians and motorists share the responsibility of creating safe roadways at all times.”

For pedestrians, AAA recommends the following: • Be visible. Wear light-colored or reflective clothing and walk in well-lit areas.

• Stay alert and watch for vehicles about to pull away from parking spaces. Avoid distractions, put down your smartphone and do not wear headphones in both ears.

• Follow the rules. Know your city’s traffic rules and signals for pedestrians.

• Cross at safe places. Use crosswalks and walk on sidewalks whenever possible.

• Make note of where you park to reduce time spent walking through parking areas.

• Avoid drug or alcohol impairment.

——For motorists, AAA has the following reminders: • Be alert. Look out for children and distracted pedestrians at all times and follow posted speed limits. Watch for pedestrians stepping out from between parked vehicles.

• Drive with caution near crosswalks and near store entrances. Always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. When approaching a crosswalk, re-

duce your speed and prepare to stop.

• Watch for pedestrians crossing outside of crosswalks and give them the same right of way as within posted crossing areas. Maintain a slow speed throughout parking areas, including access roads and lanes in shopping center and mall parking lot areas.

• Follow basic traffic rules and courteous driving behavior. Park only in designated parking areas, do not idle or park in designated disabled spaces without a permit, and proceed in the correct direction down parking lanes and on access roads.

• Do not drive under the influence

In light of CO COVID OVID 19 for the e time being, some s worship services suspended online. servi ces may be su uspended or on nline.

Please information.

Ple ease check with h your house of o worship for more m informati ion.

Page 20 • November 30, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure