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 2.
UCO goes to 9-1 See page 15
PROVIDED There will be lots of bright lights this holiday season — such as the Myriad Gardens in the metro.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17
There has been a slight fall chill in the air and that means that soon, folks in Edmond, and elsewhere, will be looking ahead to the holidays. Several holiday events are being offered.
Around here, Edmond Electric’s Luminance will kick off on Nov. 22 this month It will be at Mitch Park — off Covell and between Kelly and Santa Fe, The event is free for the short walk . Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll will kick off the holiday season on November 22, 2024 and go thru January 1, 2025. The lights will be on Monday –Sunday from 5p – 10p.
The “Enchanted Stroll” is a one-ofa-kind holiday lights experience, with 30+ displays featured in this festive walk-through event. Food trucks will be available Friday, November 22nd and Saturday, December 14th. You won’t want to miss the Merry Marketplace. Merry Marketplace presented by Luminance is a holiday pop-up shop experience which will be featured during the annual Luminance Kickoff Event and the second Community Event Night. A variety of vendors will be available bringing unique selections to our attendees.
Please also see Page 5 of this week’s edition for more information from the city on the annual holiday. happening. Also, please see Page 6 for more holiday and weekend events.
PHOTOS PROVIDED Kids, of all ages, will enjoy the lights of Luminance.
What was expected to be long night of voting turned into a quick decision by voters in the presidential race. In the case of local votes, it turned out to be a decisive voice from Edmond voters that they do not want their property taxes raised by over 14% regardless of the use. Here are some of my thoughts after the election including the lack of civility after the votes had been counted.
I was hit with some sharp comments and personal jabs after the election by the vote no on the bonds folks. I really do not understand since they got their way. Some were confused with my column having an opinion even though my column on the bonds stated in the first paragraph that this was just “one man’s opinion.” One person on social media questioned my credentials as a journalist saying she took a class in school and knew better that newspapers are not supposed to give opinions. I suggested her class was incorrect according to my 45 years as a member of the working press and assured her that newspapers are there to express opinion in the form of personal columns and letters to the editor but not news stories. Heck, I even passed enough and got a degree in journalism much to my parents’ surprise. Yes, we ran letters against the bond issues as well.
One person called me “evil.” Another person said she knew Mr. “Hubbard” well and used to like him. I guess that means she does not like me anymore. That took me by surprise since our difference of opinion was over how to pay for street repair. Can that really be “evil”? Stuff like that does not bother me after being in the business so long but in the last ten years nationally it has gotten much worse with so much hate. Now we have a group doing the same thing locally. I have lived in Edmond since 1988 and there was a time when we could have different opinions without anyone being called evil. Word of caution: if you try and tell one of my grandkids that Papa Ray is evil you will probably get a punch in the nose. Far be it for me to stop them from expressing themselves. (for those of you on social media that might not get it, I am kidding).
What happened to our bond elections was this and it was simple stuff. Edmond has a number of projects that require large capital investments. A citizen committee of twenty-five people met several times and even had open meetings to discuss ideas. What you saw on the ballot was what they produced. The voters of Edmond said a resounding no. I thought it was a fairly effective way to pay for the needs and do it quickly, but a great majority of voters disagreed with me. Fair enough and it shows the process of democracy works folks. I totally understand the pressure the increased tax may bring on someone. I have hope that the name calling will stop and we get back to figuring out how to pay for these projects. It is forward or backward folks, no such thing as neutral with traffic. If you get upset about the traffic in Edmond, please remember that a town without traffic is not a good thing. I can drive you to several towns in Oklahoma that have no traffic issues, but you would not want to have their level of city services or shopping choices. In the meantime, I am not mad at being called evil. Instead, I hope God will bless that person and her family.
On to a beautiful time of year
This is one of my favorite times of the year in downtown Edmond. There are so many activities and fun, family events to enjoy. Just getting out and walking around in the cold here in downtown reminds me of being a kid and shopping at Penn Square Mall before it was enclosed. There are so many people and businesses that work hard to make it a wonderful experience for us. I hope you will get out and enjoy. Here are some happenings that might interest you. Plan to have lunch or dinner when you are down here too.
14- American Solera- Community Book Swap 47pm 14- Frenzy- Live Music with the Brave Amigos 7pm 14- The Secret Society of Creative Curiosities- Makers Night 5:30pm 14- Round Midnight- UCO Jazz Night 7pm-9pm 14- Bluebird Books- A Book Club of Sorts 6pm
14- The Patriarch- Pint Night
14- Othello's- Date Night Thursdays
12- UCO Jazz Lab- Believe It-A Tony Williams Tribute 7:30pm 15- American Solera- 2nd Anniversary Party Kick Off
15- Frenzy- Live Music with Robert Allen 7:30pm 15- Frenzy- Unfiltered Tours 4:30pm 15- American Solera- Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 11:30am
15- American Solera- Beer Release w/ Stonecloud Brewing Collab
15- The Skinny Club- Weight Loss Clinic
15- Hopefully Yours- Hooray FriYay Special
16- American Solera- 2nd Anniversary Party
16- Frenzy- Live Music with Steve Brann 7:30pm
16- UCO Jazz Lab- Garrett Jacobson Jazz Collection 8pm
16- Edmond Historic Trust- 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse Open 1-4pm
16- Round Midnight- Live Music 7pm
16- Blocworks- Little Blocs Climbing 9am
16- Hopefully Yours- Book Bonanza
17-23- Downtown Edmond Food and Toy Drive
17-23- The Fried Taco- Taco of the Month-Chicken Tikka Masala
17-23- Woodward Pizza- Pizza of the Month- MVP
17-23- Othello's- Thanksgiving Pie Orders Open
17-23- Farmers Grain Kitchen- Thanksgiving Take & Bake Order Open
17-23- Empire Slice House- Pizza of the MonthTurkey Tango
17-23- Railyard Pie Co- Thanksgiving Pie Orders Open
17- Frenzy- Sour Sundays
17- Othello's- 1/2 Price Pizza Sundays
18- Frenzy- Singo 7pm
18- Cafe 501- Italian Inspired Cocktail Dinner
18- Edward Jones- Hobbs Wealth ManagementMarket Update
18- Woodward Pizza- Monday Meal Special
18- UCO Jazz Lab- Vocal Jazz Concert 7:30pm
18- Othello's- Martini Mondays
19- Edmond History Museum- The Real Captain America Lecture 6pm
19- American Solera- Bingo with a Brewer 7pm
19- The Fried Taco- $2.50 Taco Tuesdays
19- Woodward Pizza- Not New York Pizza Tuesdays
19- Boba Bites- $12 Tuesdays
19- Hopefully Yours- Seniors Super Sale
19- Vault 405- Your Super Powers Lunch & Learn
11:30am
19- Vault 405- Small Business Marketing Class 8:30am
20- Frenzy- Geeks Who Drink Trivia 7pm
20- UCO Jazz Lab- Jazz Combos in Concert 7pm
20- American Solera- Trivia Night 7pm
20- Bluebird Books- Quiet Quarters Book Club
5:30pm
21-23- UCO Mitchell Hall- Kaleidoscope Dance Company in Concert
21- The Secret Society of Creative Curiosities- Makers Night 5:30pm
21- Round Midnight- UCO Jazz Night 7pm-9pm
21- The Patriarch- Pint Night
21- Othello's- Date Night Thursdays
22- UCO Jazz Lab- Trey Hensley 7pm
22- The Skinny Club- Weight Loss Clinic
22- Bluebird Books- Enchanted Reads Book Club
5:30pm
22- Hopefully Yours- Hooray FriYay Special
23- Silver Leaf Gems- Holiday Extravaganza 9-3pm
23- Edmond Historic Trust- 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse Open 1-4pm
23- Round Midnight- Live Music 7pm
23- Blocworks- Little Blocs Climbing 9am
23- Hopefully Yours- Book Bonanza
23- The Body Barre- @Mygemjewels Pop Up
24-30- Downtown Edmond Food and Toy Drive
24-30- The Fried Taco- Taco of the Month-Chicken Tikka Masala
24-30- Woodward Pizza- Pizza of the Month- MVP
24-30- Empire Slice House- Pizza of the MonthTurkey Tango
24- Frenzy- Sour Sundays
24- Othello's- 1/2 Price Pizza Sundays
25- Frenzy- Singo 7pm
25- Edward Jones- Hobbs Wealth ManagementMarket Update
25- Woodward Pizza- Monday Meal Special
25- Othello's- Martini Mondays
25- Personal Touch Monograms- A Very Grinchy Open House 10-5pm
25- Silver Leaf Gems- Citizens Bank of Edmond Cash Mob
26- Personal Touch Monograms- A Very Grinchy Open House 10-5pm
26- UCO Mitchell Hall- UCO Symphony Concert
26- American Solera- Bingo with a Brewer 7pm
26- The Fried Taco- $2.50 Taco Tuesdays
26- Woodward Pizza- Not New York Pizza Tuesdays
26- Boba Bites- $12 Tuesdays
26- Hopefully Yours- Seniors Super Sale
27- Frenzy- Geeks Who Drink Trivia 7pm
27- American Solera- Trivia Night 7pm
28- Edmond Turkey Trot
29- American Solera- Black Friday Bottle Release and Can Club Sale
29- Edmond Chamber- Holiday Gift Card Rebate Starts
29- Frenzy- Unfiltered Tours 4:30pm
29- Frenzy- Live Music with John the Franklin 7:30pm
29- UCO Jazz Lab- The Wise Guys 8pm
30- Small Business Saturday
30- Small Business Saturday Bingo all day
30- Small Business Saturday Visit from the Grinch 11:30-1
30- Free Horse Drawn Wagon Rides 11am-3pm
30- Frenzy Brewing- Free Face Painting 12-2pm
30- Silver Leaf Gems- Small Business Open House Sale
30- American Solera- Small Business Blend Bottle Release
30- Frenzy- Live Music with MGB 7:30pm
30- Round Midnight- Live Music 7pm
30- Yay on Broadway-Merry Chicksmas Market & Open House 10-2pm
30- Blocworks- Little Blocs Climbing 9am
30- Hopefully Yours- Book Bonanza
“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
It’s November, a month when #Movember is trending, and men face health issues like heart disease, colon cancer and depression head on. These are major health issues that contribute to the fact that men live nearly six years less than women on average.
Fast facts
Heart disease is one of the most common causes of death in men.
Regular checkups with your primary care provider to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar can all help to prevent the onset of heart disease.
Colon cancer is a common cancer in men that is quite preventable with appropriate screening. A colonoscopy is a very accurate way to screen for colon cancer. Your primary care provider would be glad to discuss this with you and get you set up for this procedure. For most men, screening should start at age 45.
Skin cancer is another very common cancer in men. Wearing protective clothing outdoors, sunscreen, hats and routine skin checks with a primary care provider can help catch skin cancers early.
Men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Middle-aged men are often most at risk, but also less likely to speak to a doctor about their health and well-being.
Facing men’s health head on
There are many steps men can take to play a more active role in their health and well-being. Movember helps raise awareness of the issues men face, but the path to better health for men includes getting more involved. The next step is to select a primary care provider and make an appointment, go to the doctor for an annual physical or get a referral to speak with a mental health counselor.
The fact remains that men are much less likely to receive routine screenings or have a primary care provider, someone who truly acts as a partner for your health and wellbeing.
“My mission is to deliver personal and comprehensive care to my patients,” says David Hopkins, D.O., a primary care physician at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Guthrie. “I focus on preventive medicine and take a holistic approach to diagnose and treat illnesses. Medicine is best accomplished using a team-based approach, so I educate my patients to empower them to play an active role in their health care. It would be my privilege to care for you and your family.”
If you’re struggling with depression, visit INTEGRIS Health Mental Health to learn more, or if you’re in need of immediate assistance, the national suicide prevention lifeline is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-273TALK (8255).
By Tonya Coffman,
The next meeting of the Edmond Republican Womens Club will be Monday, Nov. 18. Our meeting location is Oklahoma Christian University, 2501 E. Memorial Rd., Edmond, in the Meinders/Gaylord Conference Center.
The doors open at 11:15 am, with a delicious buffet lunch served at 11:30 am. The cost for lunch is $20, or if you prefer to attend the meeting only, the cost is $5. If you are a Republican, or would like to be, you are welcome to come and join us in celebrating the victories of the Nov. 5th elections. Sign up at ERWC1787@gmail.com.
Our sponsor for the month of November is Michelle Schaefer who is a local insurance agent specializing is helping people make decisions about their Medicare plans. She has 30 years of insurance experience and is licensed in Oklahoma and Texas. Every day in America over 12,000 people turn 65. If you are one or you know one, Michelle is happy to develop a custom quote that meets your needs and budget, and will evaluate your current Medicare plan to make sure it is a good fit for you.
You can contact her at 405-2547727 or agency@michelleschaefer.com.
We are also pleased to have two speakers for this months meeting. The first speaker will be Stan Stevens who currently serves as the Executive Director for the Oklahoma Republican Party. He sits on the executive committee for the Republican Party of Tulsa County and also serves as policy advisor to Sen. Dana Prieto.
Stan began is career in Bartlesville, serving over two decades as the Treasurer of Washington County. During his tenure, he served 2 terms as the Washington County Republican Party Chairman, Treasurer for the Oklahoma Republican Party, served in numerous leadership positions, and worked in the legislature as a liaison for county government.
Stan was the first person to be elected to serve as president for two consecutive terms for the County Officers and Deputies Association of Oklahoma in state history. Stan and his wife Jenifer, reside in Tulsa. They share five children and 10 grandchildren.
Also speaking will be Jon Echols who is currently serving as House Majority Leader. Jon was elected to represent House District 90 in 2012. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a political science degree. He then went on to Oklahoma City University School of Law, where he received numerous academic awards and graduated first in his class. Jon and his wife, Kristen, and their three children attend Capitol Hill Baptist Church. He has championed numerous conservative causes during his 11 years in the House and is the longest serving Majority Floor Leader in state history.
Again, if you would like to join us for this meeting, please sign up ASAP at ERWC1787@gmail.com and indicate if you would also like to join us for lunch. Hope to see you there!
Tonya
Coffman, President Ed. Republican Women’s Club
Fall is an opportune time to set up your backyard for year-round success. Work put into landscaping in fall determines the quality of the space for all of your family’s backyarding activities, from family football games at Thanksgiving and Easter egg hunts in the spring to taking your office to the back patio and meditation in a backyard hammock.
“Work in your yard, and it will work for you. That’s always been our motto, but it’s particularly important to follow this credo in the fall when we can make the most impact in our yards,” says Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, which encourages people to care for and use the green space around them. “You don’t have to break the bank to create a backyard that will serve many purposes for your family year-round.”
Here are six money-saving hacks for creating the backyard of your dreams from the TurfMutt Foundation:
1. Clean out flower beds & add mulch. Simply cleaning out your flower beds (use a leaf blower to make quick work of the task) and adding a fresh layer of mulch works wonders. New mulch not only holds weeds at bay, it also helps retain moisture around plants, trees and shrubs.
2. Prune bushes & trees. Trimming bushes, shrubs, and trees is another inexpensive way to make a big impact in your yard’s aesthetic. Use a chainsaw, trimmer or hedger to remove dead or dying branches and stems. This preserves the health of the main branch and improves the shape of the plant. Pruning also en-
courages plants to flower later.
3. Keep grass mowed and weeded. Regular lawn mowing helps your grass stay healthy and strong and improves the overall appearance of your yardscape without spending much money. In the fall, cut your lawn shorter than during the rest of the growing season and continue to mow until your grass goes into hibernation for the winter.
4. Pick perennials. Perennials – those cold-hardy plant species that will return again in the spring – are a smart money choice because you only have to buy them once to enjoy them for years to come.
5. Plant climate-appropriate species. Native plants – those that occur naturally in your region – are a smart buy any time of the year. They are more likely to thrive in your micro climate without much maintenance or watering. They are also better for local wildlife and pollinators and help preserve the balance of the natural ecosystem.
6. Look for deals. Many nurseries and home improvement stores offer end-of-season sales on landscaping essentials from plants to outdoor power equipment (mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, etc.) that make even big backyarding tasks easier.
For more information, sign up for Mutt Mail, a monthly e-newsletter with backyarding tips and all the news from the TurfMutt Foundation here. To learn more about creating the yard of your dreams, visit TurfMutt.com. Look for Mulligan the TurfMutt on the CBS Lucky Dog television show. Learn why spending time in our yards and community parks is good for us…and the planet.
(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.)
Oct. 28
Tyler Rickie Gooch, 21 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Jayla Brianna Gray, 22 of Edmond. Four counts of failure to appear.
Alyssa Beth Garcia, 36 of The Village. Misdemeanor warrant.
Terdera Anthony Robinson 30 of Oklahoma CIty. Two counts of failure to appear.
Andrew Ian Lynch, 31 of Edmond. Domestic abuse with prior pattern of physical abuse.
Oct. 29
Randall Lee Bigby, 41 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting.
Tyler James Hutchins, 39 of Ed-
mond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, trespassing after being warned and trafficking in illegal drugs.
Tyler Stephen Davis, 30 of Yukon. Trespassing after being forbidden, possess drug paraphernalia, trafficking in illegal drugs and two counts of failure to appear.
Molly Elizabeth Kaase, 30 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant and failure to appear.
Oct. 30
Molly E. Musgrove, 51 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.
Shiloh Wayne Haddox, 27 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear.
Briya Lacheye Robinson, 27 of Oklahoma City. Reckless conduct with a firearm and assault and/or battery with a dangerous weapon.
Oct. 31
Jolie Mignon Foster, 43 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Jackson Luke Phillips, 27 of Ed-
mond. Driving while impaired by the consumption of alcohol. (DWI)
Michael Lee Schmidt, 52 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.
Leandra Nicole Bernaix, 34 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Miraj Hasit Trivedi, 26 of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault (dangerous weapon.)
Nathaniel Daniel Lee, 19 of Yukon. Under 21 – operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substance.
Nov. 1
Collin Decordova Stewart, 21 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer and public intoxication.
Torey Myles Alexander, 23 of Oklahoma City. Assault and battery with dangerous weapon.
Aaron Robert Johnson, 22 of Edmond. Expired tag – over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or re-
voked. Will Rodgers Jakes, 58 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Nov. 2
Michell Decol Parker, 50 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Dillon Rain Spicer, 30 of Luther. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
John Michael Trent, 18 of Edmond. Failure to maintain compulsory insurance and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Juan Jose Garcia-Garcia, 39 of Edmond. Felony warrant.
Alexis Darius Lobiana, 21 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of failure to appear.
Nov. 3
Colby Keith Teel, 28 of Guyton, Ga. Public intoxication.
Ransom Grant McComas Beam, 19 of Sulphur. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Weekend Calendar Events Nov. 14-17
------- In the Gallery
------- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
---- Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
---- Edmond Ice Rink
---- Devon Ice Rink
---- Downtown in December
---- Red Earth Treefest
---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights
---- Karaoke Thursdays
---- Acoustic Nights
---- UCO Jazz Lab
---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events
---- American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show
---- OKC Rep presents: “The Thanksgiving Play”
---- Civic Center Hall presents: “California Suite”
---- The Polar Express
---- Mistletoe Market
---- Buchanan’s Flea Market OKC
---- Holiday River Parade
---- Workshops at the Myriad Botanical Gardens
---- OKC Philharmonic presents: From the Highlands
---- Barrel Racing Futurity World Championship
---- Girls Day Out
Extra Information
In the Gallery
Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Extra Info: Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. –5 p.m.; Free; Featuring Behnaz Sohrabian; edmondfinearts.com
Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 9 – Sat, Mar 22; 9 a.m. –12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.com
Kingdom of David & Solomon Discovered
Location: Armstrong Auditorium
Extra Info: Mon, Feb 26 – Fri, Jan 17 2025; Free; Mon – Thu: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Fri & Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; closed Saturdays; armstrongauditorium.org
Devon Ice Rink
Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 8 – Sun, Feb 2; Mon – Wed: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 12 – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
Downtown in December
Location: Downtown OKC
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 14 – Tue, Feb 4; downtownindecember.com
Red Earth Treefest
Location: BancFirst Tower, OKC
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 15 – Tue, Dec 31; 10 a.m. –5 p.m.; redearth.org
OKC Zoo Safari Lights
Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gar-
den
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 9 – Wed, Jan 1; 5:30 – 11 p.m.; okczoo.org
Karaoke Thursdays
Location: The Frosted Mug, 1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite 107, Edmond.
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 14; Free; 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; frostedmugedmond.com
Acoustic Nights
Location: The Frosted Mug, 1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite 107, Edmond, OK
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 15; Free; 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; frostedmugedmond.com
UCO Jazz Lab
Location: UCO Jazz Lab
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16; 8 p.m.; $15; Garrett “Big G” Jacobson; calendar.uco.edu
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale; Fri, Sep 27 – Sun, Nov 17; tcaa.nationalcowboymuseum.org;
American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show
Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 1 – Wed, Nov 20; aqha.com
OKC Rep presents: “The Thanksgiving Play”
Location: Oklahoma Contemporary
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 14 – Sun, Nov 17; Thu –Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; oklahomacontemporary.org
Civic Center Hall presents: “California Suite”
Location: Civic Center Music Hall
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 7 – Sun, Nov 17; Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri: 7:30 p.m.; Sat: 7:30 p.m.; Sun: 2:30 p.m.; okcciviccenter.evenue.net
The Polar Express
Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 14 – Fri, Dec 27; Showtimes vary on select departure dates; oklahomarailwaymuseum.org
Mistletoe Market Location: Oklahoma City Convention Center
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 15 – Sun, Nov 17; Fri & Sat: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; jioc.org
Buchanan’s Flea Market OKC
Location: 608 Kiamichi Pl, OKC
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16 – Sun, Nov 17; 9 a.m. –5 p.m.; buchananeventco.com
Holiday River Parade
Location: Boathouse District
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16; 6 – 8 p.m.; riversportokc.org
Workshop at the Myriad Botanicals Gardens
Location: Myriad Botanicals Gardens
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16; Pressed Florals: 1 – 4 p.m.; Fall Gnome Gardens: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Oklahoma Landscape Watercolor: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
OKC Philharmonic presents: From the Highlands
Location: Civic Center Music Hall
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16; 8 p.m.; okcphil.org
Barrel Racing Futurity World Championship
Location: Lazy E Arena
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16 – Sat, Nov 23; 8 a.m. –10 p.m.; bfaworld.com
Girls Day Out
Location: Oklahoma State Fairgrounds
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; revolveproductions.com
The 2024 general election cycle is complete with the election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States. Trump easily carried Oklahoma with over 66% of the vote, winning all 77 counties and marking 60 years since a Democrat nominee (1964 - Lyndon Johnson) carried Oklahoma. Otherwise, it was a light ballot with only one statewide race for the open seat on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission being vacated by 36-year incumbent Republican Bob Anthony who was prohibited by term limits to seek another six-year term. His successor is former Secretary of State, Senate President Pro Tempore, State Representative and Sapulpa Mayor Brian Bingman. Bingman, a Republican, joins fellow Republican Commissioners Todd Hiett and Kim David on the three-member panel that regulates the oil and gas, utility and trucking industries among others. Hiett's seat will be open in 2026 as he is prohibited from seeking another term due to term limits.
Neither of Oklahoma's Republican incumbent U.S. Senators (James Lankford, Markwayne Mullin) were up for reelection, however all five GOP U.S. Representatives were with four (Kevin Hern-CD 1, Josh Brecheen-CD 2, Tom Cole-CD 4, Stephanie Bice-CD 5) easily winning their general election races. Republican Rep. Frank Lucas (CD 3) won his primary but did not draw a general election opponent.
In state legislative races, Republicans will hold
their supermajority status in both chambers and will enter the 60th Oklahoma Legislature with a Senate majority of 40-8 and House majority of 8120. New Senate members were scheduled be sworn in on November 13 and House members on November 20. The bi-annual Organizational Day will take place January 7 and the legislative session convenes February 3.
In Senate general election races, every incumbent, regardless of party affiliation, won their contest and every open seat was filled by a new member of the same party as their predecessor. New Republicans winning open seats during the general election are Julie McIntosh (SD 3), Lisa Standridge (SD 15), Randy Grellner (SD 21), Brian Guthrie (SD 25), Christi Gillespie (SD 33), Aaron Reinhardt (SD 37), Kendal Sacchieri (SD 43) and Kelly Hines (SD 47). Democrat Mark Mann won the SD 46 seat to fill an unexpired term. These new members will join Democrats Regina Goodwin (SD 11) and Nikki Nice (SD 48) and Republicans Avery Frix (SD 9), Jonathan Wingard (SD 13) and Spencer Kern (SD 31) who won their seats
Mark Nash, long-time community leader, has officially declared his candidacy for Mayor in the upcoming Spring 2025 City Council elections. With a robust history of leadership and a commitment to public service, Nash is poised to bring transformative change to the city.
In the wake of the GO Bond propositions resounding defeat, Nash felt compelled to step forward as a candidate. “As a leader among those who opposed the GO Bond property tax increase, I recognize the weight of responsibility that comes with such opposition. We must not only challenge our city’s spending but also propose viable solutions. There must be a more equitable approach, and I am eager to contribute to that dialogue,” Nash stated.
Nash's has extensive experience on numerous committees and boards, including a remarkable 12-year tenure on the Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) board of trustees. He is also a founding member of the Edmond Neighborhood Alliance established in 1994 and has actively volunteered on various Homeowners’ Associations boards for over 34 years. Furthermore, his six-year involvement with the Edmond Public Schools Foundation underscores his deep investment in local education and community development.
Nash brings a wealth of professional
expertise to his candidacy, having spent 14 years with an international process engineering and consulting firm, where he served as Managing Director and CFO. He then joined Pelco Products in Edmond and later founded Pinnacle Partners West, a management consulting firm that specializes in process and quality improvement across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and public sector. Nash served ten years with the State Oklahoma as a management auditor, a senate fiscal analyst, and as Director of Finance for the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
Mark’s background in financial management and process improvement uniquely positions him to work collaboratively with the City Council to develop a comprehensive revenue structure and budget that serves the needs of all Edmond residents. In addition to his leadership roles, Nash is also an elder, and chairman of the endowment committee, at the First Christian Church of Edmond, and serves as chairman of the editorial board for The Edmond Way newspaper, reflecting his deep engagement in civic matters.
Mark's candidacy represents a commitment to fostering a transparent, vibrant, and financial sustainability future for Edmond. He invites all residents to join to build a thriving community that prioritizes the needs of its citizens.
The public is invited for a captivating lecture on one of America’s Civil War heroes, titled The Real Captain America: The Heroic Story of Joshua L. Chamberlain, presented by Lt Col Greg Kent, USAF (retired).
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, November 19th
Time: 6:00 PM –7:00 PM
Location: Edmond History Museum, 431 S. Boulevard Lt. Col. Kent will delve into the inspiring life and legacy of Joshua L. Chamberlain, a true patriot who displayed unparalleled courage and leadership during the Civil War. Known for his bravery at the Battle of Gettysburg, Chamberlain's story resonates with values of resilience, honor, and sacrifice – qualities that continue to inspire today.
This lecture is free to attend, but registration is required. Please reserve your spot by visiting our website: edmondhistory.org.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about an American icon from an esteemed military historian.
Museum Information: The mission of Edmond History Museum is to celebrate Edmond history through preservation and education. Museum hours are 10:00-5:00 Monday – Friday, and 1:004:00 Saturday. Please visit the museum website at www.edmondhistory.org
during the primary and/or primary runoff with no general election opponent.
In House general election races, every incumbent, regardless of party affiliation, won their contest and every open seat was filled by a new member of the same party as their predecessor. New Republicans winning open seats during the general election are Mark Chapman (HD 12), Jonathan Wilk (HD 20), Emily Gise (HD 90) and Gabe Woolley (HD 98). Democrat Ellen Pogemiller won the HD 88 seat. These new members will join Democrats Michelle McCane (HD 72) and Ron Stewart (HD 73) and Republicans Tim Turner (HD 15), Ryan Eaves (HD 22), Derrick Hilderbrant (HD 23), Jim Shaw (HD 32), Molly Jenkins (HD 33), Stacy Adams (HD 50), Jason Blair (HD 53), Mike Kelley (HD 60), Rob Hall (HD 67) and Mike Lay (HD 68) who won their seats during the primary and/or primary runoff with no general election opponent.
In a hard-fought municipal campaign, former Democrat state Representative Monroe Nichols (HD 72) defeated former Tulsa County District 2 Commissioner Karen Keith to win the Tulsa mayoral seat.
With heavy advertising on both sides, voters retained two (Noma Gurich, Jim Edmondson) of the three Oklahoma Supreme Court justices on the retention ballot. Longtime Justice Yvonne Kauger was not retained. Each of the Court of Criminal Appeals and Court of Civil Appeals justices were retained.
Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) inducted eight new members into the Alumni Hall of Fame at a luncheon event on Nov. 6.
The OCCC Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2024 includes:
Chris Anoatubby, lieutenant governor, the Chickasaw Nation. Jason Gwynn, professor and filmmaker, OCCC. Saidy Herrera, multicultural officer, Oklahoma Historical Society.
Natalie Mai, district judge, Oklahoma County. Yovana Lopez Medina, immigration litigation associate, Rivas & Associates.
Anand "Happy" Patel, entrepreneur (posthumous).
Stephanie Wallace, nursing clinical and lab director, OCCC.
Ed Williams, personal and academic advisor, OCCC.
"Oklahoma City Community College's Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2024 represents eight outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to our community," said Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, president of OCCC. "We are proud to honor their accomplishments today and recognize them as very special members of our OCCC family."
The event was held on campus in the atrium of the Visual and Performing Arts Center. Sponsors include BancFirst, the Chickasaw Nation, First United Bank, Rivas & Associates, Tinker Federal Credit Union, and Foundation for OCCC Trustee Myra Decker.
"Anyone who has taken a class at OCCC is considered an alum and invited to join the OCCC Alumni Association," said Lora J. Malone, director of alumni affairs at OCCC. "Our goal is to unite former students and help them stay connected with the college and our extensive alumni network."
Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, today issued the following statement on the passing of Judy Love, a community leader, visionary philanthropist and beloved member of the Oklahoma community.
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Judy Love, a woman whose unwavering generosity, integrity and passion for helping others will forever resonate within our state. Judy, and her late husband Tom’s contributions to Oklahoma went far beyond their incredible success in business. Her dedication to giving back to her community transformed lives and uplifted countless individuals through causes she championed.
“The Love’s commitment to giving back through their charitable giving left a profound impact on Oklahoma. Through her visionary donations, Judy played a pivotal role in strengthening institutions that remain as lasting legacies of her belief in the power of community. Her legacy of kindness will continue to serve as an inspiration for generations to come.
“On behalf of my wife Maressa and I, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Love family and to everyone fortunate enough to have known Judy Love.”
‘The Love’s commitment to giving back through their charitable giving left a profound impact on Oklahoma.’
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Department of Nursing has elevated its designation to the School of Nursing, reflecting the exceptional quality and prominence of nursing education at Central and the unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
“The University of Central Oklahoma School of Nursing sets the standard for educating, training and preparing these essential healthcare providers. UCO nursing graduates are in demand at hospitals, clinics and doctor’s offices throughout the region,” said UCO President Todd G. Lamb.
“This new era for our nursing programs recognizes UCO’s commitment to meeting students where they are and addressing Oklahoma’s critical workforce needs.”
The UCO Department of Nursing offers four degree programs to meet the needs of students from a variety of educational backgrounds:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Traditional Track: Designed for individuals seeking their bachelor’s degree in nursing, who are not licensed as a registered nurse.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Online RN to B.S. Track: Specifically designed for registered nurses interested in advancing their nursing knowledge and career potential by earning a bachelor’s degree. The 100% online program offers eightweek courses with full- and part-time options to complete the 24 hours of required nursing coursework.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Fast Track: The fast-track program is for those who have earned a traditional bachelor’s degree in another field and are ready for a career in nursing. The fast-track program can be completed in just 16 months and provides the flexibility of hybrid courses. Upon successful completion, students will have earned a B.S. in nursing.
Master of Science in Nursing: The master’s degree in nursing is 100% online with two-course pathways—nursing leadership and nursing education. The program requires 100 clinical hours and can be completed in as little as 16 months.
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), UCO is a beacon of excellence in nursing education with a legacy spanning more than fifty years. Renowned for
producing highly skilled nurses, UCO's nursing programs epitomize innovation and embrace cuttingedge technology, catering to traditional and non-traditional students.
Central’s nursing programs align with society's critical healthcare demands while nurturing future
leaders in nursing. UCO’s nursing programs proudly hold approval from the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing, further solidifying the institution's esteemed status.
For more information about the UCO School of Nursing, visit uco.edu/nursing.
Another presidential election is in the books.
I like taking a look at some of the other counties in the state and their vote totals.
In Oklahoma you have conservative areas and then you have some uber conservative areas. The Oklahoma Panhandle falls into the latter category.
Steve Gust
Texas County, home to Guymon, came in with 80 percent of the vote for the Trump-Vance ticket. To the west of Texas County there’s Cimarron County.
To the east of Guymon is Beaver County. Both of those were over 90 percent for Trump. In both of them the Harris-Walz team only managed about seven percent.
Having said that, I really thought on election night that the vice president might actually break the 24year drought for the Democrats in which they haven’t won even one of Oklahoma’s 77 counties. About half way through vote counting in Oklahoma County, Harris was polling about 80,000 ballots and
was ahead of Trump, who at the time, hadn’t hit the 70,000 mark yet. Yet by the time all precincts reported, Trump erased that deficit and wound up winning by about four or five thousand votes. By now, everybody knows how that race turned out nationwide.
I would like to see Trump do two things in this next term. Why not appoint a special panel to study COVID-19 and the response to the pandemic?
We could see what we did right and what we could do better. We should be better prepared for next time. And I do hope there isn’t a next time.
Secondly, I saw where Trump won the American Indian vote. Maybe the administration, working with others, should take a closer look at the reservation system in America and come up with ways to improve conditions.
After all, it’s almost 2025 and the reservation issue is one which should have been solved a very long time ago.
(Steve Gust, editor of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com.)
Last week, Gov. Kevin Stitt announced the launch of the Oklahoma Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, a new division within state government aimed at strengthening partnerships with faith-based and nonprofit communities. The office will serve as a centralized resource for these organizations, helping them engage more directly and effectively with Oklahoma Human Services to address the needs of Oklahomans.
“As the son of a pastor, I know the heart of our state is in our families and places of worship,” said Governor Stitt. “The Office of Faith Based Initiatives will house all of Oklahoma’s family and faith-based initiatives, and act as a one-stop-shop for those who need an extra hand. This is not some new government program, this is going to be an opportunity to bring people together, where neighbors can walk with neighbors and change lives.”
The office will act as a key point of
Statement about Oklahoma's 2024 General Election from Paul Ziriax, Secretary of the State Election Board:
"Oklahoma's 2024 General Election is one for the history books. Unofficial results show that more Oklahomans cast a vote for President than any previous election. Voters set a new record for in-person early voting by more than 120,000. We also had the largest number of registered voters heading into this election since we began tracking this statistic in 2000.
"As Oklahoma's chief election official, I am proud of the Oklahomans who exercised their right to vote in this election. I am deeply grateful for the poll workers, county election officials, and State Election Board employees who worked so hard to make this election possible even with heavy turnout and despite the storms that ravaged parts of our state in the days before the election. Our election officials are thankful to local, state and federal law enforcement officials for their efforts to keep everyone safe during the General Election."
Senate Pro Tem Designee Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, last week released the following statement after Tuesday’s election.
“Oklahomans spoke loud and clear last night when the election results came in. They show a clear endorsement of our continued efforts to ensure safer communities, individual liberties and a growing economy for hardworking Oklahomans. I have had the pleasure to already meet and continue an open dialogue with all our current and new members of the Senate and I am proud to say we have a class of new Senators coming in who will help us build on our positive momentum. Collectively, we all support values that matter most to Oklahoma including protecting our rights and fostering an environment that believes in the future of this state.
“I want to congratulate everyone who won their races last night in the Senate, House, our federal delegation and President Trump and Vice President Vance. Together we will build a stronger state and nation and uphold the trust the electorate has placed in us. Our best days are ahead of us,” Paxton added.
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.
contact for faith-based and nonprofit organizations, facilitating connections with state services and fostering collaboration on programs that support Oklahomans in need. The office’s objectives include creating a repository of state agency programs where these organizations can make a meaningful impact, particularly through the Be A Neighbor programs. Governor Stitt will also recognize faith-based organizations that positively impact their communities through partnerships with state agencies.
“I’ve had the honor to see real change happen when we come to the table together to help our neighbors,” said Jeffrey Cartmell, director of Oklahoma Human Services. “Through the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, we will bring compassion, hope and true transformation into the lives of those we serve.”
The office has launched a dedicated webpage to provide resources and contact information for faithbased and community organizations across the state. This online hub will include links to the Be A Neighbor program’s data on key service pillars and offer pathways for organizations and individuals to participate in service efforts.
“I’m honored and humbled to serve Oklahomans in our Office of Faith Based Initiatives,” said Andrea Stasyszen, deputy director of the Office of Faith Based Initiatives. “Working across Oklahoma with so many different partners and churches has been the most rewarding experience of my life—and we’re just getting started.”
“Creating the Office of Faith Based Initiatives is simply good governance— it’s a no brainer.” said State Rep. Ajay Pittman. “Our goal has always been simple yet profound, to harness the dedication and resources of our faithbased partners. I thank the Governor and his team for bringing this vision to life and look forward to seeing how Oklahomans take advantage of this incredible new office.”
For more information on the Oklahoma Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, please visit Oklahoma.gov/faithandcommunity.
Statements from the City of Edmond on election results for Edmond improvements bond issue Nov. 5.
MAYOR DARRELL A. DAVIS
The residents of Edmond have made their voices heard, and we appreciate everyone who came out to vote and supported the democratic process. There has been a lot of spirited debate on both sides, and we will take that input and use it as we move forward. The projects on the ballot remain high priorities, and our job now is to create a way to efficiently fund the work that is still needed.
CITY MANAGER SCOT RIGBY
We appreciate everyone who came out to vote on the Edmond GO bond proposals. Having that input helps the City as we work to move forward on not just these projects, but also as a community. The projects proposed by the GO bond committee remain a high priority and now our job as a City is to continue the process of finding a path forward – including a way to fund the work that still needs to be done.
By Carol Smaglinski
“Happiness is having a large, loving, caring close-knit family in another city,” said comedian George Burns who lived to be 100 from 1886 to 1996.
I have a hunch that your relatives are already planning to spend Thanksgiving with you this year, so you’d better start preparing now.
With the right planning, everyone can relax and enjoy the meal - including you.
When inviting your guests, take a moment and ask if anyone has a problem with nuts, or requires gluten-free food, or if they are having particular problems, while you decide on the menu. Make it a real celebration by getting out the best china and leaving those paper plates behind. The kids might enjoy showing off their creativity by making some fancy twists and turns with those cloth napkins and being part of the fun with nothing too crazy.
The most difficult part for some cooks at Thanksgiving during the preparation is coping with a frozen turkey. The thawing must be started days ahead depending upon the weight of the bird. But it is not complicated and the best way to avoid the risk of bacterial growth is to make sure that none of your guests wake up with tummy troubles the next day.
Don’t unwrap the turkey, just find a pan large
enough for the turkey to sit comfortably and the pan to catch any leaking juices. Think ahead and plan on at least two or three days for the thawing process.
Here’s some calculations: The USDA says it takes about 24 hours for every 4 or 5 pounds of turkey to thaw. Therefore, a 16- pound turkey should take four days.
When the bird is done thawing, at that point, it should be cooked immediately.
As far as the side dishes, read through recipes and find out what you can do ahead to save time and trouble on the Big Day.
One great addition for Thanksgiving are homemade biscuits that will certainly make memories for your family and friends. What you will n eed is a hot oven, a 2-¼ inch cookie cutter, a large pan and room in the refrigerator for chilling before they are baked. When you are bringing these to the table, now you can chill out, too,
Better Than Store
Bought Biscuits
Makes about 15 biscuits
2-¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
10 Tbsp. unsalted butter, which is 1-½ sticks
(cut butter into 10 Tbsp. Chill 8 Tbsp. and melt 2 Tbsp.)
1 cup cold buttermilk
Salt for sprinkling
Have a rack ready in the lower part of the oven.
In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add chilled butter and use two knives to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles peas.
Gently, mix in the buttermilk but just until the dough is moistened.
Next, dust a clean work surface lightly with flour. Turn the dough out and knead just two or three times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a ½-inch thick round disc. With the cookie cutter, stamp out biscuit rounds as close as possible. Gather the remaining dough and bring it together by kneading a couple of times. Then, flatten the dough and finish cutting.
Move the biscuits to a large flat pan, using parchment paper if you wish, and brush the biscuit tops with melted butter. Sprinkle with a little salt. Chill until firm in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and bake the biscuits for about 20 minutes or they are golden. Allow them to cool slightly before lifting them off the pan and presenting them to your guests.
Different cultures and different time periods looked at the death and burial of loved ones with some of the same ideas we hold now, but also some that have been set aside over time.
The Victorian Era, so called because of the reigning British Queen Victoria, was a time filled with burial traditions and superstitions that may seem strange, even unbelievable today, or very familiar. The Oklahoma Home and Community Education(OHCE) Genealogy Group will
host a workshop on November 20th, featuring member and group President Jan Beattie, bringing to light those superstitions and traditions.
The OHCE Genealogy Group meets monthly at 10:00 a.m. on the third Wednesday at the Oklahoma County OSU Extension Center, 2500 NE 63rd St., Oklahoma City. The public is invited to attend and more information can be found on their website: www.ohcegenealogy.com or on Facebook: OHCE Genealogy Group.
Delta Dental of Oklahoma (DDOK) and the Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation recently announced its scholarship fund recipients at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry (OUCOD). Edmond residents Priyan Daji, a secondyear dental student, and Ryleigh Mills, a third-year dental student, are two of 10 OU College of Dentistry students receiving a $10,000 scholarship from Delta Dental of Oklahoma for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Priyan currently serves as the Access and Opportunity Student Council Secretary. Additionally, he volunteers for philanthropic initiatives like OUCOD’s Kids’ Day and various Staples Society events. After graduation, Priyan hopes to work under a seasoned dental professional in the OKC area to build his skills and expand his expertise. Eventually, he wants to open his own dental practice.
Ryleigh participates in several extracurriculars and currently serves as the OUHSC Student Government Association Sooner Safety Chair, Staples Society Secretary and Student Professionalism and Ethics Association Treasurer. She is active in the community, mentoring children through Big Brothers Big Sisters OKC and volunteering for organizations and events such as the People’s Church OKC, Habitat for Humanity and Big Event. While Ryleigh wants to practice general dentistry in her home state of Oklahoma, she also hopes to travel and provide dental treatments to underserved populations across the globe.
“These scholarships are awarded to deserving dental students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to the community,” said John Gladden, chairman, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Oklahoma. “Providing financial support to promising future dental professionals like Priyan and Ryleigh is just one of the ways DDOK fulfills its mission of advancing the oral health of all Oklahomans.”
Established in 2001, Delta Dental of Oklahoma’s scholarship program provides financial support to deserving OU College of Dentistry dental
students planning to practice within Oklahoma after graduation. DDOK and its Foundation also provide stipends to dentistry students to assist with their research projects. With this year’s scholarships and research funding included, DDOK and its Foundation have granted more than $1.3 million to OUCOD students over the past 22 years.
“Thanks to the generous support of Delta Dental of Oklahoma and its Foundation, our students receive numerous educational resources needed to become impactful dental professionals,” said Paul M. Mullasseril, D.D.S., M.S., and dean of the OU College of Dentistry. “We’re grateful for the organization’s continued commitment to investing in the future of dentistry in our state.”
Scholarships totaling $100,000 were awarded to the following 10 students for the 2024-2025 school year:
Dental Scholarship Recipients
Yoanna Avina, DS4 (Oklahoma City, OK)
Priyan Daji, DS2 (Edmond, OK)
Jena Graves, DS4 (Wellston, OK)
Mia Hatfield, DS2 (Tulsa, OK)
Landen Keffer, DS3 (Ponca City, OK)
Colin Leonard, DS2 (Norman, OK)
Mason Menser, DS2 (Cushing, OK)
Ryleigh Mills, DS3 (Edmond, OK)
Devin Widick, DS3 (Woodward, OK)
Justin Yang, DS2 (Stillwater, OK)
###
Delta Dental of Oklahoma
For over 50 years, Delta Dental of Oklahoma, the leading provider of dental benefits in the state, has prioritized and advanced the oral health of millions of Oklahomans. Delta Dental of Oklahoma (DDOK) serves more than one million eligible members and more than 9,300 Oklahoma-headquartered companies. Delta Dental of Oklahoma offers Individual and Family benefit plans designed to meet the needs of Oklahomans outside the workplace. For more information, visit DeltaDentalOK.org/CoversMe.
American violinist Rachel Barton Pine will perform at Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond on Thursday, November 21 at 7:30 p.m. In her program titled “American Traditions,” Pine celebrates America’s folk music— from its roots in the European dance music of early immigrants to modern blends of classical and American fiddling styles. From J.S. Bach to Mark O’Connor, plus an array of AfricanAmerican composers, the program is a unique celebration of American folk culture.
“Rachel’s sound has a unique ability to connect with audiences in a powerful way,” said Program Director Ryan Malone. “This American program in particular should be very meaningful, especially a week before Thanksgiving.”
Pine is the only American to ever receive the Gold Medal at the J.S. Bach International Violin Competition in Leipzig, Germany. Her solo Bach performances have also been featured on American Public Media’s Performance Today and National Public Radio’s Tiny Desk.
Tickets are available from $35 for adults and $30 for youth ages 6-17. Please visit ArmstrongAuditorium.org or call the Box Office at (405) 285-1010.
Additionally, a world premiere archaeology exhibit is now open at the Armstrong Auditorium through January of 2025. ”Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered” showcases the antiquities of biblical Israel’s greatest kings, notably the world-renowned “House of David” Inscription known as the Tel Dan Stele, on loan from the Israel Museum. Admission is free. More at ArmstrongAuditorium.org/exhibit.
Billye Putnam Debbie Scott
Epsilon Sigma Alpha Gamma Zeta member Billye Putnam presented her November educational on the Hawaiian language and its history.
In 1778 when Captain James Cook landed on the island of Kauai, Hawaiian had only an oral language. Oddly once the written word was created for Hawaiians, Hawaiian words could start with any letter but would only end in a vowel.
In 1896 the Republic of Hawaii passed Act 57, an English-only law which subsequently banned Hawaiian language as the medium on instruction from publicly funded schools. The Hawaiian language was not again used as the medium of instruction until 1987, a span of 91 years.
“Oi Kau a la e hana I ola honua” which means, “While the sun yet shines, do all that you can.” This is a good mantra for all of us.
—Debbie Scott presented an educational on Hawaii’s natural resources at the Gamma Zeta meeting. Members marveled over the various colored beaches, the fact that a person can mail a coconut from Hawaii to anywhere in the world
just like mailing a postcard, and that pineapple jack-o-lanterns are more common than pumpkin ones. Also Spam is consumed more in Hawaii than any other state in the United States.
ESA is an association that provides leadership training, educational programs, and community service. Through a network of 1,200 local chapters in the U.S. and abroad, an ESA member has the opportunity to form life-long friendships and share the power to make a difference. That difference is felt close to home and in far-reaching ways by participation in community service and major philanthropic projects.
The local ESA chapter is Gamma Zeta and it is busy volunteering with local nonprofits: U R Special, No Boundaries, Int’l., Boys’ Ranch Town, Salvation Army, and Free to Live. Gamma Zeta volunteers with Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur, Oklahoma and Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee, Ok. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is the national project. Come join this energetic group and give back to your community. For more information, call Jacci Gantz at 405-922-5954.
By George Gust
It’s early November which means we’re in midChristmas season form at the movies and on TV. As the years go on and the proliferation of Christmas content has grown exponentially it’s hard to distinguish between a Christmas movie worth your time and a disposable ‘thing’ to put on TV in the background while you’re baking cookies or some other holiday activity of choice.
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is something of a rarity in today’s holiday movie landscape by being released to the big screen instead of straight to the comfy confines of streaming, but would this movie be another unimpressive entry in the recent deluge of Christmas cinema or something a bit more inspiring?
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is the big screen adaptation of the beloved children’s holiday novel of the same name. The film follows the mayhem and surprises that ensue when six of the worst youngsters disrupt the town's yearly Christmas performance.
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” isn’t the flashy holiday release, as we’ll see with next
week’s spectacle “Red One” but hits the mark for the kind of broad yet sentimental movie it wants to be.
The tone of this movie swings from the irreverent goofiness of the problem children at the core of the story to the more heartfelt overarching ‘meaning of Christmas’ message the film wants to get across.
For such a tried-and-true formula the film could easily come off as cheesy and half baked, but the performances of Judy Greer and Pete Holmes build enough balance between comedy and sin-
cerity that enable the film to bring home the emotional resonance at the end of the film.
Overall, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” ever does not reinvent the wheel when it comes to the holiday movie formula, but with a strong story from the beloved book and talented actors in front of the camera, it is able to deliver an earnest and enjoyable Christmas film experience. In a time of cash grab soulless fare of holiday movies like last years’ unintelligible “Candy Cane Lane” “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is a noble entry and entertaining adaptation that can be enjoyed by the whole family this holiday season.
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is rated PG for thematic material and brief underage smoking.
3.5
(Contact George Gust for comment about this film, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)
Governor Kevin Stitt filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board’s decision to grant St. Isidore, a Catholic institution, status as a charter school. Governor Stitt’s brief argues that denying St. Isidore a school charter solely because of its religious affiliation violates the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment.
Recognizing the public benefit that religious charter schools provide to Oklahoma students, parents, and educators, Governor Stitt challenged the Oklahoma Attorney General’s intolerance of religious freedom by reaffirming the state’s commitment to education and family rights.
The amicus brief reads, in part, “Governor Stitt is committed to ensuring that all Oklahoma parents, regardless of religious affiliation, have access to a diverse array of high-quality schooling options that allow them to make choices based on what is best for their children. Gov. Stitt is compelled to speak on behalf of Oklahomans through this Brief because the Oklahoma Attorney General has deprived them of a true advocate
TOPEKA, Kan. – Central Oklahoma blocked a field goal as time expired and clinched at least a share of an MIAA football title for the first time since joining the league in 2012 with a 28-27 win at Washburn Saturday afternoon.
"These guys are so awesome," UCO head football coach Adam Dorrel about his team's fight to come from behind for the second week in a row. "They never quit, they're all in it for each other, and they found a way to get it done."
UCO improved to 9-1 on the season with the win and 7-1 in the MIAA. The Bronchos are in first place in the league standings heading into the final week of the regular season and are one game ahead of second-place Pittsburg State. Central hosts Emporia State and a win will give the Bronchos the outright title.
"We're still focused on the last game," Dorrel said. "It's a great accomplishment for the school and the team but we aren't focusing on that until after next week. We still have work to do."
Saturday in Topeka, it was a second consecutive week of a comeback and a second consecutive week with a field goal attempt to end the game.
Central Oklahoma trailed 21-13 heading into the fourth quarter. A 19-yard touchdown pass from Dawson Herl to Ashton Schumann plus a twopoint conversion pass from Herl to Jacob Delso tied the game up with 12:47 to play. UCO went back in front with a 15-yard touchdown pass from Herl to Terrill Davis that made it 28-21 with 6:17 to play
Washburn scored with 3:00 to play, but a missed PAT wide right left it 28-27. UCO moved the ball down the field before punting back to Washburn with 1:03 remaining, leaving the host with a chance to move down the field 91 yards. Washburn made it down to the UCO 26-yard line before brining on the field goal unit with three seconds left in the game.
Then, for the second time in the game, Central's field-goal defense came up with a blocked kick. Time expired and Central celebrated the win. Herl finished the game 7-for-8 with 73 yards and two touchdown passes. He came on late in the third quarter for Jett Huff, who was 19-for-28 with
195 yards and two touchdown passes. Huff also threw one interception and lost a fumble. Herl added six rushes for 62 yards, including a long of 46.
Davis led UCO's receivers with four receptions for 77 yards and two touchdowns. He scored the game's first TD from 47 yards outs on 3rd & 18, hauling in the pass from Huff in the first quarter. That score gave Davis the UCO school record for most touchdown receptions in a single season with 13. He added to it with the fourth-quarter score to extend his record to 14 touchdown receptions.
Delso finished with five receptions for 56 yards. Schumann had a team-high six catches for 49 yards with the one touchdown.
Jaylen Cottrell also had a receiving touchdown of 15 yards. He had 10 carries for 28 yards with a long of 12. William Mason also had 10 rushes and a team-high 104 yards rushing.
Dylan Buchheit led the defense with eight tackles and an interception.
Central took a 6-0 lead in the game with Davis' touchdown in the first quarter. After an offsides call on the PAT, Dorrel sent the offense back out for a two-point try, but the rush failed.
Washburn went in front 7-6, but UCO quickly responded with a 8-play, 75-yard scoring drive capped off by Cottrell's score to go up 13-7. That's how the game went to halftime.
Out of the break, Washburn came out with a blitzing attack. The Ichabods struck right away with an 80-yard touchdown and took a 14-13 lead in just 41 seconds. After stopping UCO with an interception, Washburn scored on a 48-yard touchdown pass on one play to go up 21-13.
Washburn scored again in the third quarter, but a holding call brought the ball back and Buchheit got his interception. Soon after in the third, Herl replaced Huff and the comeback was on.
Central Oklahoma returns home for the regular season finale Saturday, Nov. 16 against Emporia State. The game, in addition to the Bronchos aiming for the outright MIAA title, will also be Senior Day with a pregame ceremony set to honor the group. It will also be Military Appreciation Day, with fans presenting a military ID for free admission.
By Mark O. Neumeister
I know, I know, you just finished your 2023 tax return last month. But it’s not too early to consider saving taxes on the next one! This fall is a great time to start thinking about year-end tax planning. Here are three ways for you to consider to lower your taxes before the year ends.
Contributing to retirement accounts such as a 401(k) or IRA provides an effective way to reduce your tax. Contributions to these accounts are often tax-deductible. For 2024, the contribution limit for a 401(k) is $23,000, and the limit for an IRA is $7,000. Each type of plan allows “catch-up” contributions if you are 50 years old or older, of $7,500 for a 401(k) and $1,000 for an IRA.
Maximizing these contributions not only allows you to save for the future but also reduces your current tax. For example, if you’re in the 22% tax bracket and contribute the maximum $23,000 to your 401(k), you could potentially save $5,060 in taxes.
New for 2025: Not only will the above amounts likely be increased for inflation, but a
new “super catch-up” contribution will be allowed for those ages 60—63 contributing to a 401(k) plan. The super catch-up amount for 2025 will be $11,250.
Taking advantage of available deductions and credits is another way to reduce your taxes. The most popular tax deductions include charitable donations, medical expenses and mortgage interest. Tax credits, such as the American Opportunity Credit for education expenses and the Child Tax Credit, can also significantly reduce your tax bill.
Keeping detailed records and receipts of all deductible expenses might be a bit of a chore, but it’s a proven way to maximize these tax benefits. For instance, if you donate to a qualified charity, ask for a receipt or acknowledgment letter. Compared to taking the standard deduction, itemizing your deductions can lead to greater tax savings.
Checking on your tax withholdings is a commonly missed opportunity. However, if you’ve had significant changes in your income or personal circumstances, adjusting your withholdings can help you avoid underpayment penalties or a large tax bill. Check out the withholding calculator the IRS provides on its website to help you determine the correct amount to withhold from your paycheck. This proactive step can help balance your tax pay-
ments and refunds, making tax season less stressful.
With a little bit of effort, year-end tax planning can be an opportunity to reduce your tax liability and maximize your refund. By maximizing retirement contributions, taking advantage of deductions and credits, and reviewing your withholdings, you can make the most of the remaining months of the year. Need some help implementing these strategies? Please visit with your favorite CPA for help. Happy tax planning!
Mark O. Neumeister, CPA, CGMA, is a partner at Arledge, the largest locally owned accounting firm in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Arledge is a recognized leader in the accounting industry offering practical solutions in the areas of tax planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting.
This article contains general information only and does not constitute tax advice or any other professional services. Before making any decisions or taking any action that might affect your income taxes, you should consult a professional tax advisor. This article is not intended for and cannot be used to avoid future penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.
By Brian Attebery
Strength training stimulates thoughts of big weightlifters, bodybuilders, and power athletes.
While that is a fair correlation, we need to understand that “strength” is literally what allows us to live life to the fullest.
You here about people being sick and they are described as “weak” when they are not doing well or have been very ill. Strength is the opposite of illness in many cases.
I recently had a client come in for a program design and like many, she had some aches and pains from being over 60 years of age and going through life. Her knees and back were the primary issue like most people I see.
She admitted she had fallen off the wagon with her fitness but knew she needed to get back on board, but she hurt and was concerned she would hurt more if she did the wrong programs. All of that is valid and important to consider.
Not all programs are for everyone and for all time. You need to have a systematic approach and start slowwith a program that is conservative and designed for you. There is no need to jump right into some advanced, high-level program that some celebrity claims to do.
This client’s program was a full body workout that she did just three days per week. We adjusted angles,
weights, and she learned about biomechanics as it applied to her limited joint pain while exercising. Simple changes in exercises, foot placements, posture, shoulder angles, and range of motion can make all the difference in the world from hurting yourself to helping yourself be better. We also went over stretching and she was given instructions on how and why to do them every day. I emphasized that stretching here and there throughout the day can make a huge difference in reducing pain and stiffness in our bodies and that she doesn’t have to look at it as an hour-long session but simple a 20-30 second stretch for this joint or that joint throughout the day. Motion is lotion!
The client started her program and came to me to report that in just a couple workouts, her knees and back already felt 100% better.
I tell you this story because I know many of you fear working out due to joint issues and sometimes, they can be reduced very rapidly with some basic workout and stretching programs. I wish I could promise that they fix all our problems, but they don’t always.
I do know that a stronger body, even with some joint issues, is a body that can help you live better in life. Don’t let fear of the gym hold you back from living life to the fullest. It is time for YOU to get strong!
(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)
According to Oklahoma State Treasurer Todd Russ, receipts for the last 12 months through September total $16.95B, a decrease of $115.6M, or 0.7%, when comparing revenue from the previous year. Total revenue for October 2024 equal $1.387B and decreased over October 2023 by $16.2M or 1.2%. and reflecting a modest change from grocery tax cut going forward.
Russ
Gross Production Tax or “GPT” totals equal $73.3M, down $12.1M or 14.2% over the previous month. Other tax sources for the same time period show individual income tax increased 16.3%, total sales and use tax decreased 7.7%, motor vehicle tax increased 1.7% and other
sources increased 9.9%.
OK Unemployment for September — 3.4% seasonally adjusted rate, and unchanged from August.
US Unemployment for September — 4.1% seasonally adjusted rate, and unchanged from August.
Consumer Price Index — Increased 0.2% in September, after increasing 0.2% in August and July.
• The index for shelter rose 0.2% in September, and the index for food increased 0.4%. Together, these two indexes contributed over 75% of the monthly all items increase. The food at home index increased 0.4% in September and the food away from home index rose 0.3% over the month. The energy index fell 1.9% over the month, after declining 0.8% the preceding month.
• The all items index rose 2.4% for the 12 months ending September, the smallest 12-month increase since February 2021. The all items less
food and energy index rose 3.3% over the last 12 months. The energy index decreased 6.8% for the 12 months ending September. The food index increased 2.3% over the last year.
The state’s Business Conditions Index for September decreased over last month.
Jan. 48.7 Feb 46.9 March 53.3 April 54.7 May 48.4
Components of the overall September index were: new orders at 41.5; production or sales at 37.8; delivery lead time at 54.8; inventories at 50.9; and employment at 44.7. As a result of a cooling 2024 economy and waning inflationary pressures, Goss noted the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates by 0.25%
A four-year college degree is not necessarily the next step for students after they graduate from high school. The rising cost of college tuition has revitalized interest in career and technical education (CTE).
According to data from the National Student Clearinghouse, enrollment at community colleges rose 2.6 percent in 2023 compared with a year earlier, enhanced by a 16 percent surge at schools with a focus on CTE. Similarly, a survey by Edge Research commissioned by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation found on-the-job training seems to be more valuable to both high school students and non-enrolled graduates than a four-year degree, with 83 percent of the former stating it is excellent or good in value, compared to 80 percent for college. Favor for CTE schools is up 63 percent from the previous year.
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges says CTE has evolved from a traditional vocational school model to one that offers academics and skills for higher education and careers in skilled trades, technology and applied sciences. Demand for this type of education continues to grow, with various state superintendents and directors of CTE programs indicating they can only accommodate a fraction of the applicants they get for CTE programs.
"Since 2004, Vermont has seen a decrease in its overall student population, however we have had an increase in CTE students in that same period," says Jay Ramsey, Vermont State Director for Career and Technical Education.
While a traditional four-year university might be the right path for some individuals, CTE has proven ideal
The University of Central Oklahoma continued a four-year trend of moving up Newsweek’s America’s Top Online Colleges list, acknowledging the university’s efforts to offer quality, accredited online degree programs.
UCO improved on the prior year's ranking, moving up to No. 79 out of 250 colleges and universities nationwide. UCO is one of only two universities in Oklahoma on the list. Central has been included on the list since its inception in 2022, improving its ranking year over year.
“This national ranking recognizes the University of Central Oklahoma’s dedication to meeting students where they are with high quality, affordable options to earn their college degree,” said UCO President Todd G. Lamb.
“Our online students thrive, graduating with top grades and limitless career opportunities. This achievement is personified by Caitlyn Hearne, a May 2024 Class Marshal in the College of Business. Ms. Hearne graduated with a 4.0 grade point average while completing 100% of her degree online.”
Ranked schools receive a five- or four-star award based on whether the final score falls above or below the median score of all awarded institutions. UCO was given a five-star award, scoring above the median of all institutions ranked nationally.
The rankings are based on a survey of more than 10,000 U.S. residents who have used online learning services to obtain an academic degree or acquire knowledge and skills for pro-
Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd issued the following statement on the passing of businesswoman, philanthropist and community leader Judy Love.
“I join with my fellow Oklahomans in expressing condolences to the family of Judy Love. She was an extraor-
fessional or personal development. Respondents rate their experience with the institution based on six criteria: organization and accessibility, support and service, cost of the program, organization reputation, success and practical relevance of contents. The final score also incorporates student ratings of satisfaction and their overall recommendation, as well as institutional data such as enrollment.
Online degree offerings provided through UCO’s Connected Campus include the Bachelor of Business Administration in human resource management, finance, management or marketing, the Professional Master of Business Administration, the Master of Education in library media education or educational leadership, the Master of Public Administration in either urban management or public and nonprofit management, the Master of Music in music education, the Master of Arts in strategic communications and the Master of Science in family and child studies, as well as the Master of Science in nursing and the RN to B.S. in nursing track.
UCO also offers adult degree completion programs designed for adults who have earned prior college credits and want to complete their degree. Students can earn a Bachelor of Business Administration in general business, a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership or general studies, or a Bachelor of Arts in applied liberal arts.
For more information about Central’s Connected Campus, visit online.uco.edu.
dinary woman who truly reflected the best of our state through her generosity and dedication to her fellow Oklahomans. Hers was indeed a life well lived, and our state is better for her life and service.” –
Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City.
for many others. New York City schools Chancellor David Banks has said it's a sentiment being shared across the nation, that there is another way and another track for students to be successful. CTE may help students get more excited about school and view themselves in careers they may not otherwise be exposed to.
The National Center for Education Statistics puts the average annual tuition for a four-year degree at a private institution in the United States at roughly $35,000 (and public at approximately $10,000. Room and board costs also must be considered, and those can increase the overall cost by a significant amount. The average tuition for a trade school can be around $17,600 a year, but rates vary based on the trade. From Metro News
charity
Gamma Zeta members Dottie Cather and Jacci Gantz volunteered at U R Special recently. U R Special clothing distribution helps hundreds of Edmond children increase self-esteem, healthy habits, and creates positive relationships for needy and at-risk children during their 3 times a year clothing distributions. Distributions are in August, November, and April. With the help of over 135 volunteers, November’s distribution was a busy time with 421 children getting brand new clothing.
Oklahoma has made big strides in helping young people quit smoking cigarettes, following a positive trend across the country. According to the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey, fewer than 2% of high school students nationwide are smoking cigarettes. In Oklahoma, youth smoking rates have dropped to 4.3%—a 77% decrease since 2013, based on data from the Oklahoma Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) credits this progress to prevention programs, support that helps teens live healthier, tobacco-free lives and increased emphasis on laws that prevent youth from buying tobacco products.
While fewer teens are smoking cigarettes, vaping remains a serious problem. In Oklahoma, nearly 22% of high school students use e-cigarettes—more than twice the national average, according to the latest YRBS data.
“While it’s encouraging to see fewer youth smoking cigarettes, the high rate of vaping among Oklahoma teens remains a major concern,” said Julie Bisbee, TSET’s executive director. “We know prevention and support work, and the TSET Healthy Youth Initiative is here to help teens break free from nicotine and choose a healthier path.”
TSET offers several free resources to help teens quit tobacco and stay healthy:
Quit the Hit: This program provides group support on Instagram for teens and young adults ages 13–24. Over five weeks, participants join daily conversations, get tips from a coach and connect with others who are also trying to quit.
My Life, My Quit: Funded by TSET, this program offers one-on-one support for teens ages
13–17 who want to quit nicotine. Teens can connect with a coach through text, web chat or phone calls to get help every step of the way.
Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline: The Helpline is a free resource for all Oklahomans to quit and reduce the influence of tobacco on young people. Teens ages 13 and older can also receive coaching support from the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline.
The drop in youth smoking is good news, and the fight to end vaping and other tobacco use continues. TSET programs and services give teens and adults in Oklahoma the tools to stay tobacco-free and live healthier lives.
For more information on TSET’s programs and resources for teens, educators and healthcare providers, visit TSETHealthyYouth.com.
