Edmond Life and Leisure - June 16, 2022

June 16, 2022 Vol. 23, No. 5

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Broadway Tonight and ‘The Patti Page’ story

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

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

For more information, see page 4.

Elaine Warner’s visit to Nashville

See page 12

FRIDAY, June 17 Mostly Sunny High 97° Low 73°

SATURDAY, June 18 Sunny High 96° Low 73°

SUNDAY, June 19 Mostly Sunny High 94° Low 74°

PHOTOS PROVIDED

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Broadway Tonight series will present original musical, “Flipside: The Patti Page Story,” at 7:30 p.m. June 23-25 and 2 p.m. June 25-26, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 222 NW 15th St., Oklahoma City. Pictured, cast members from the original UCO production of “Flipside: The Patti Page Story,” from left to right, Jenny Rottmayer, Lindsie VanWinkle and Kassie Carroll.

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Broadway Tonight series will present the original musical, “Flipside: The Patti Page Story,” at 7:30 p.m. June 23-25 and 2 p.m. June 25-26, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 222 NW 15th St., Oklahoma City.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the musical, which was written and produced by Greg White, Ph.D., musical theatre division head and executive director for Broadway Tonight at Central. The musical documents the rise to fame of vocalist and best-selling female artist of the 1950s Patti Page. “‘Flipside’ is about discovering your voice and the value of authenticity,” White said.

“In many regards, the show is universal and timeless, but I believe the message rings true now, more than ever. Through the ‘Flipside’ process, several members of the company were able to join the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), which is the U.S. labor union that represents professional actors and stage managers on Broadway, national tours, regional theatre, Disney and beyond.”

Originally debuting at Central in 2012, “Flipside: The Patti Page Story” has earned 18 awards from the National Kennedy Center Festival in Washington, D.C., including outstanding musical, outstanding director of musical, outstanding sound design and

outstanding performance by an actress, among various other national awards. The show features 28 of Page’s hit songs including “Tennessee Waltz,” “Old Cape Cod” and more.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by calling the Mitchell Hall Theatre box office at 405974-3375 or online at www.uco. edu/cfad/mitchell-hall/tickets.

Also, there are many, many more events in the Edmond area this weekend, including the always fun street party, Heard on Hurd, this Saturday night. That event usually brings hundreds to downtown Edmond. See Page 17 for more on the event, sponsored by Citizens Bank of Edmond.

Page 2 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 3

he University of Central Oklahoma’s W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute (FSI) received full, five-year accreditation through the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), the forensic science accrediting body for the U.S. and Canada. Central is the only university in North America accredited in all available disciplines for undergraduate forensic science programs.

Forensics Institute receives good accreditation news The University of Central Oklahoma’s W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute (FSI) received full, five-year accreditation through the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), the forensic science accrediting body for the U.S. and Canada.

Central is the only university in North America accredited in all available disciplines for undergraduate forensic science programs.

The degrees accredited include the Bachelor of Science in molecular biology, chemistry, digital forensics and crime scene investigations (forensic investigations). UCO’s FSI program is the only institution in Oklahoma with undergraduate-level FEPAC accreditation of any kind.

The institute has overseen the undergraduate and graduate forensic science programs at Central since 2009. Under the direction of Dwight Adams, Ph.D., former director of the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, UCO FSI has seen significant growth from its inception—from fewer than 100 students in 2009, to nearly

1,000 forensic science majors. It is the largest forensic science education program in the country.

“You don’t reach these milestones without support and a team of professionals that focus on students and what is needed in forensic science.

The support began with former President W. Roger Webb and his commitment to the FSI. That support has continued with each UCO president that has followed,” Adams said.

“This program attracts students from Oklahoma and others from across the country and overseas because of its student-centered focus by a contingent of former professionals with more than 300 years of forensic science and law enforcement experience. The extensive hands-on training with the latest technologies and methods makes UCO an elite program.”

All UCO forensic science students complete not one, but two degrees, pairing forensics studies with another major such as biology, computer science, accounting or chemistry.

Page 4 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Difference between a father and a dad On our trip to Hawaii, Lisa shot a photo of me. When I saw it, I was a little freaked out. Before me was not a photograph of me but instead it was my dad when he was on vacation. I had my ball cap set just the way he did, my head was held just as he held his when he was relaxing, and I was holding my beer in my hand the way he did. The expres- Ray Hibbard sion of being relaxed was the same one we saw of him many times on our beach vacations to Padre Island. It was his favorite place to go on vacation.

The only difference was the brand of beer.

When he was in Texas, he always drank Pearl beer since he could not get it in Oklahoma. They do not sell it in Hawaii, or I would have had one. Actually, I do not think they sell it anyplace. I never said my dad was a connoisseur of beer. He would have laughed at the way people make over craft beer theses days and he would never have paid that price. The best beer to dad was affordable and ice cold.

I sent the photograph to my brother and sister.

They were equally freaked out. I do not mind looking like my dad at all but usually I favor my mom in pictures. The dark, Lebanese skin tone from my mom usually overshadows the light completion my Arkansas raised dad sported all his life. It was a rare moment, but it served a purpose in reminding me what a great dad I had the joy of being raised by in this world. We lost dad in March of 2007, but I still miss him every day.

He was tough, smart and was a working guy. He spent most of his working days on a construction site as a pipefitter and as a heat and air repairman.

He always had three and sometimes four different jobs at a time so that he could send all three of us to private school and on to college. There were no student loans for us. Dad was a cash and carry kind of guy.

He served his country as a United States Marine. He loved the Marine Corps during his regular duty service. Dad was not as fond of his time in the reserves. Turns out he was sent to Korea as part of the Incheon invasion. “I could not convince them this isn’t what I signed up for,” he would say.

He went and fulfilled his oath. He ended up wounded in combat and sported a disability from a large amount of metal from a Chinese grenade in his legs. Some of the pieces were too small to remove.

He never complained about his lifetime of pain he must have felt from the missing muscle tissue in both legs. You would never know he had any disability at all. I asked him once why he never talked about his pain or let it limit him in what he did and his answer was a matter of fact, “Hell, what damn good would it do Junior.” He liked to call me junior since we sported the same name. I knew he was not just giving me an answer, but he was sending a message as well.

There is a significant difference between being a father and a dad. It is not the same thing folks.

They both may get up and go to work to provide for their family. Not just to put a roof over their family and food on the table, but also to give them the ability to afford extras like private schools or a family vacation.

They both may be physically “present” at their kids’ sports games or events.

However, the “difference’ is deeper, more underthe-surface and more vital to each kid. It is a difference, that truly encapsulates what “Dad” means.

Dads think before they comment. Sounds simple right? But how many times have you caught your own tongue when about to answer your kid’s question what do you really think about this dad?

There is a significant difference between being brutally honest and being thoughtfully honest. Consider the child’s real reason for asking, perhaps it is more out of seeking your approval or in the hopes of making you proud instead of really wanting to hear your philosophical understanding of the issue.

They interact and play on the child’s level. This reminds me of the saying “Real men have tea parties with their daughters.” It is true, a real dad plays on his kids’ level; he does not just interact with his child when it is something he is interested in doing himself. He reads that same annoying and boring book over and over until he becomes the voices of Mr. Teddy and Mr. Unicorn. These may be minor moments in the day for a dad, but they are lasting memories for his child, and they help to form a level of trust and comfort in his son or daughter that will solidify their loving view of him.

Dads are a good example. They show love, compassion and patience not only with his family, but with people. He does not participate in road rage when someone flips him off. He does not verbally or physically abuse people or belittle them when they disagree with him. A dad does not insult his kids’ mom or use his kids as pawns to get revenge on his ex. You may think some of these examples are obvious, but many times when emotions are running high people do not stop and take a minute to think how their actions might be physically endangering or

emotionally harming to their child. This does not mean you are expected to be perfect and untouched by the stresses of life. We are all affected by these tensions.

A father is something else; a father is more of a biological term than a role or relationship. A father is the birds and bee’s version of a parent. They are a reproductive assistant if you will. Fathers need only contribute the biological components necessary to produce the child. After that, their role and obligation to the child is over.

A father does not need to be present to have a have a child. They do not need to participate to make their biological contribution. A father does not need to be present to be a father.

Therein lies the difference when attempting to define the difference between a dad and a father.

I know there are single moms out there that understand there is a distinctive difference between the two. They understand the importance of a father being present and being a dad. They see every single day what the differences are between being a dad and being a father mean to their child’s life.

It warms my heart to see my young dad friends spending time with their kids. It is a wonderful time that is to be enjoyed. I cherish my adult kids even more today. I will offer one piece of Father’s Day advice. As your children move to adulthood, let them help you. So many years go by with dad being the one to take care of things but there comes a time when it is good to let your kids give you a hand. They want to pay the joy you have given them back.

Happy Father’s Day!!!

(Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- Weekend calendar of Events ......................................................Page 7.

---- Obituary notice ..........................................................................Page 7.

---- Senior news ......................................................................Pages 8 & 9.

---- Columnist looks at the politics of fuel ....................................Page 10.

---- UCO news ................................................................................Page 11.

---- George Gust reviews ‘Jurassic World Dominion’ ......................Page 14.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photographer Melinda Infante

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

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 5

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

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

Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

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

larceny.

Jake Leslie Muennink 22, of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication (lake only).

Brandon Lee Richards, 23 homeless. Public intoxication, possession of CDS with intent to distribute within 2000 feet of a park, school etc. and failure to appear.

May 23 Shawn Randy Wayne Males, 37. Felony warrant.

Crystle Marie Austin, 39 of Oklahoma City. A misdemeanor warrant and a felony warrant.

May 29 Myers Andrew Vickers, 28 of Oklahoma City.

Public intoxication and carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Nicholas Andrew Dale Yoder, 21 of Norman.

Child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Daneil Kent Thrower, 31 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting an officer, failure to to ride on right side of roadway/bicycle and two counts of failure to appear.

Jay Edward Buza Jr., 72 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Kelvin Seneca Simpson, 33 homeless. Two counts of throwing human waste at government employee, obstruction of a police officer, public intoxication and threaten to perform violent act.

May 24 Calvin Maurice Owens, 42 of Edmond. Prohibited crossing/pedestrian, possession of drug paraphernalia, non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

May 25 Ethan Blaine Graham, 19 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Necea Michelle Brown, 26 of Edmond. Petty larceny.

Saul Martinez Bernal Jr., 42 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant four counts of failure to appear.

May 26 Christopher Michael Marshall, 28 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant.

Michael Blain Loether, 31 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Marcos Armando Chavez, 21 of Oklahoma City.

Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence34 of alcohol.

Michael Richard Dees, Jr., 36 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS. Brittany Lynn Hemmerick, 34 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant and two counts of failure to appear.

Reginald Eugene Tyce, 71 of Spencer. Felony warrant.

Harry Lee Osborne, Jr., 58 of Spencer. A felony warrant and two counts of failure to appear.

Jarrell Marque Mitchell, 29 of Edmond. Disorderly conduct.

Larry Eugene Jany, 53, of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault (strangulation).

James Nicholas Charping, 41 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Nakayla Nicole Green, 25 of Edmond. Littering from vehicle and three counts of failure to appear.

Kelvin Seneca Simpson, 33 homeless. Public intoxication.

Matthew Isaac Hicklin, 41 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

May 28 Mukiza Alain Mugisha 22 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Kelvin Leon Sylvan, 33 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Daniel Andrew Soest, 40 of Oklahoma City. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Erik Wade Tarver, 29 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Lawone Deray Smith, 35 of Oklahoma City. Petty

May 30 Mark Carl Lamb, 49 homeless. Two felony warrants, possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and obstruction of a police officer.

Chelsea Ann Weaver, 34 of Stillwater. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Coco Wesley Gilbert, 23 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting an officer and false representation to an officer.

Monroe Waters Eerebout, 20 of Edmond.

Fraud/mislead/false represent as one’s own driver’s license card.

Sierra Alena Lucas, 24 homeless. Non-assault resisting officer.

May 31 Mario Thomas Perales. 37 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag over three months, no proof of insurance, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, speeding (16-20 MPH over) and four counts of failure to appear.

June 1 Zachary Duane Jaco, homeless. Felony warrant.

June 2 Ricky Leon Adams, Jr., 22 of Edmond. Expired license plate, (drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Austin Hunter McClendon, 26 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Edward Alexander Nuncio, 28 homeless. Grand larceny from dwelling.

Fredrick Leroyce Ridsel, 58 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Christopher Aaron Hays, 34 homeless. Felony warrant and a misdemeanor warrant.

Sierra Alena Lucas, 24 homeless. Possession of CDS. Susan Gayle Fox, 64 of Oklahoma City. Petty larceny.

June 3 Kairon Dinara Sascha Dunn, 20 of Midwest City.

Possess CDS, obstruction of a police officer, failure to wear seatbelt, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substance.

Kayleisha Renee Stewart, 22 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Ernest Eugene Golson Jr., 58 of Oklahoma City.

False representation to an officer.

Stormy Don Warren, 22 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle without current license plate, false personation of another, possess drug paraphernalia and failure to maintain compulsory insurance.

Jacqueline Marie Brown, 54 of Oklahoma City.

False representation to an officer.

June 4 Gage Makia Shore, 19 homeless. (Misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property, burglary theft from a motor vehicle4 and possess CDS. Royrodriquez Vinis Bokon, 21 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Hayden Franklin Hewitt, 35 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Blake Ryan White, 27 of Edmond. Leaving the scene of accident of unattended vehicle, felony warrant and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and other intoxicating substance.

Kyle David Coplen 24 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Marcus Konrad Calloway, 58 of Edmond. Harboring or concealing felons/fugitives.; Chelbe Tanner Boyd, 33 of Oklahoma City.

Shoplifting.

Robert Andrew Highfill, 55 of Yukon. False representation to an officer.

Jewell Darlene Miller, 54 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Jeremiah Gene Jacques, 40 of Guthrie, Possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

June 5 Alan Emmanuel Bonilla-Cruz, 35 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Michael Lamar Turman, 46 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag, over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Michael Edward Garret, 34 homeless. Four counts of failure to appear.

Kevin Michael Berggren Jr., homeless. Public intoxication.

David Campuzano-Gonazalez, 32 of Edmond.

Misdemeanor warrant.

William Franklin Stockwell Jr., 34 of Edmond. Two counts of public intoxication, assault and battery with a deadly weapon and animal cruelty.

Felicia Marie Williams, 35 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Jennifer Anne Minor, 37 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor first offense) domestic abuse assault in the presence of a minor child.

Edmond Historical Society to mark Independence The Edmond Historical Society & Museum presents Fourth of July activities, a liberty-themed radio show reenactment, and a historical exhibit celebrating LibertyFest’s 50th Anniversary. Still Feeling Patriotic Day, the following weekend will be a children’s parade and voter registration opportunity.

LibertyFest Exhibit The exhibit LibertyFest: An Exhibit Celebrating 50 Years of LibertyFest from July 1 to Sept 3, 2022. To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of LibertyFest in Edmond, the Edmond History Museum will host an exhibit of photographs and memorabilia documenting the heritage of this event, from a small park parade to a huge, three-week series of events. Artifacts include official pins, posters, t-shirts, KiteFest kites and photographs. This exhibit is free.

LibertyFest History: The idea for LibertyFest began in 1972 by local citizens seeking a parade and firework tradition for their children and community. The first event was held in Stephenson Park.

The event continues to grow as a downtown Edmond tradition which attract 125,000 attendees.

Superheroes Radio Show The Superheroes of Liberty, a 1940s Radio Theater production of a historic old-time radio show, July 4th at 4:00 pm at the Museum. Actors will present patriotic-themed radio dramas from Superman and American Trail. Enjoy this familyfriendly entertainment before dinner and fireworks! Tickets are $5 each, kids under 5 free. Tickets available at EdmondHistory.org.

Fourth of July Activities The museum will open after the parade for visitors to view the LibertyFest historical exhibit and participate in crafts and activities. The museum will close to the public at 4:00 for the radio show.

Still Feeling Patriotic Day! Patriotism doesn’t just happen on July 4th. The Museum presents a continuation of freedom celebrations on Saturday, July 9. Enjoy the opportunity to decorate your own cardboard float and show it off in a kid parade around the gallery! We will have art supplies on hand, but feel free to bring your own cardboard box. There will also be games, story time, and a voter registration drive happening all from 1-4 PM on July 9th.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 7

Weekend calendar of events, June 16-20 What’s Happening Weekend June 16-19 ---- In the Gallery ---- Board Game Night with Parks & Recreation ---- Farmer’s Market ---- Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors ---- Young at Art: A Selection of Caldecott Book Illustrations ---- The United States Army Jazz Ambassadors ---- The Sound of Music ---- Daddy Daughter Luau ---- Heard on Hurd ---- AAA Route 66 Road Fest ---- Celtic Throne – Royal Journey of Irish Dance ---- Beats and Bites 2022 ---- Prix de West Art Show & Sale ---- Signature Tour ---- National Reining Horse Association Derby ---- Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Deray Davis ---- Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents: Emma ---- LibertyFest ---- Bricktown Blues and BBQ Festival ---- Kids Fest ---- Summer Music Series ---- Oklahoma Brewer’s Fest ---- Armstrong Auditorium presents: Celtic Throne ---- Sunday Twilight Concert Series Extra Information In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Thu, June 2; 5 p.m.; Free; enjoy the art of Rory Morgan; edmondfinearts.com; facebook.com Board Game Night with Parks & Recreation Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: Sun, May 1 – Sat, Aug 6; 6 – 10 p.m.; Free; edmondok.civicrec.com Farmer’s Market Location: Festival Market Place Extra Info: Sat, Apr 16 – Wed, Oct 19; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.gov Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Sun, May 1 – Sat, Dec 1; edmond-

hisory.org Young at Art: A Selection of Caldecott Book Illustrations Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Tue, May 17 – Sat, June 18; Tue – Fri: 10a.m. – 5 p.m.; Free; edmondhisory.org The United States Army Jazz Ambassadors Location: UCO Jazz Lab Extra Info: Fri, June 17; 8 p.m.; free; facebook.com The Sound of Music Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Thu, June 16 – Sat, June 18; $20; 7 p.m.; ci.ovationtix.com

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, June 18 & Sun, June 19; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org National Reining Horse Association Derby Location: Oklahoma State Fair Arena Extra Info: Wed, June 15 – Sun, June 26; nrha.com Bricktown Comedy Club presents: Deray Davis Location: Bricktown Comedy Club Extra Info: Sat, June 18 – Sun, June 19; Sat & Sun: First show: 7 p.m. & Second Show: 9:30 p.m.; bricktowncomedy.com

Daddy Daughter Luau Location: Pelican Bay Aquatic Center Extra Info: Fri, June 17; 7 – 9 p.m.; $10 per person; visitedmondok.com

Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents: Emma Location: Shakespeare Gardens, OKC Extra Info: Fri, June 10 – Sat, June 25; Thu – Sun: 8 p.m.; okshakes.org

Heard on Hurd Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Sat, June 18; 6 – 10 p.m.; mycitizens.bank; facebook.com

LibertyFest Location: Citywide, Edmond Extra Info: Sun, June 12 – Mon, Jul 4; libertyfest.org

AAA Route 66 Road Fest Location: Oklahoma City Fair Grounds – Bennett Event Center Extra Info: Sat, June 18 – Sun, June 19; $5 - $20; 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.; route66roadfest.com

Bricktown Blues and BBQ Festival Location: Sheridan & Oklahoma Ave, OKC Extra Info: Fri, June 17 – Sat, June 18; 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.; bricktownokc.com

Celtic Throne – The Royal Journey of Irish Dance Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Sun, June 19; $25 ---- $50; 7 p.m.; armstrongauditorium.vbotickets.com Beats and Bites 2022 Location: Riverwind Casino Extra Info: Sat, June 18; 6 – 8 p.m.; Everclear with Sister Hazel and Deep Blue Something; riverwind.com Prix de West Art Show & Sale Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, June 17: 10 a.m. – Sat, June 18: 5 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Signature Tour

Obituary notice Joyce Sibley 02/23/1934 – 06/06/2022 On June 6, 2022, Joyce Sibley went home to be with her Heavenly Father. Born in Oklahoma City, Joyce graduated from Classen High School and then attended the University of Oklahoma where she served as president of several campus-wide organizations.

Joyce earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from OU and, among other awards, she received awards for “Outstanding Freshman”, the “Outstanding Senior Woman” and “President’s Leadership Award”.

Upon graduation, Joyce spent the summer interning with The Navigators in Colorado Springs and then attended seminary at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina.

Upon graduation from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, she joined the faculty at OU working with student teachers. Joyce married Bill Sibley in 1957 and, together, they had 3 children – Tim, Lauren and Steve.

In 1961, Joyce, Bill and Tim moved to Aachen, Germany for 2 years while Bill completed postdoctoral work in physics. The family then moved to Oak Ridge, Tennessee and Joyce established and led several different Bible study groups. In 1970 the family moved to Stillwater, Oklahoma where Bill became head of the Physics department at Oklahoma State and Joyce was asked to join the staff at University Heights Baptist Church as Director of the College Ministry. Joyce’s passion in life was for helping students find meaning to life in Christ and perhaps her greatest legacy was the enormous positive influence she had on the lives of students involved in the leadership councils and ministry activities she created during her 14 years at UHBC. In 1985, Bill left OSU to head a program at the National Science Foundation in Washington DC and while there, Joyce wrote her first book, “Who Growls In Your Jungle?”. Bill and Joyce moved to Birmingham, Alabama in 1988 when Bill took a position as Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Alabama Birmingham. While in Alabama, Joyce got a master’s degree in counseling and, later, her PhD in psychology from the University of Alabama. She also wrote her second book “Making Sense of Your Kids”. Bill and Joyce returned to Oklahoma in 1998 and Joyce worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor at the Oklahoma Christian Counseling Center where she continued to provide counseling to individuals and couple clients until 2020 when she relocated to Central Texas to be closer to her kids and family.

Joyce focused her entire life on helping people grow their relationship with Christ. She most cherished the relationships she developed with young people over the years and the opportunities that created to help them grow as people and Christians. She considered many of the students she worked with as “her kids” and a number of those relationships have lasted for several decades.

Joyce is survived by her 3 children, their spouses, and 6 grandkids – Tim and Sherril Sibley, Tyler and Travis; Lauren and Mike Peterson, Scott and Kelsey; and Steve and Laurie Sibley, Mikeala and Ethan. She is also survived by her twin sister Janis Gilliland and her older sister Marilyn Porter.

Memorial Services will be held at Memorial Park Chapel, 13313 N. Kelley Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73131 on June 21st at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow the service.

In memory of Joyce, the children are establishing an endowment to continue her Ministry to college students. Contributions can be sent to University Heights Baptist Church, 323 South Knoblock, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74074.

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 submitted by noon Thursday.

Kids Fest Location: Scissortail Park Extra Info: Sat, June 18; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; metrofamilymagazine.com Summer Music Series Location: Riversport OKC Extra Info: Sat, June 18; 7 – 10 p.m.; riversportokc.org Oklahoma Brewer’s Fest Location: Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark Extra Info: Sat, June 18; 12 – 8 p.m.; craftbeerok.org Armstrong Auditorium: Celtic Throne Location: 14400 S Bryant Rd, Edmond, OK Extra Info: Sun, June 19; 7 p.m.; armstrongauditorium.org

Page 8 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Workforce shortage leads to home’s closure Could be a trend among other facilities

Finding capable staff is a challenge for some nursing homes.

SAPAULPA – Ranch Terrace Nursing Home in Sapulpa has announced it will close on August 15 due to an inability to maintain legally required staffing levels. By the closing date, all residents will be transferred to other facilities or living arrangements.

The facility, built to serve up to 85 residents, had 30 at the time of its announced closure. Scott Rogers, a co-owner of Ranch Terrace, said the low occupancy was not due to a lack of demand, but to limits tied to staffing levels.

“In a perfect world, this facility would have 50 skilled nursing professionals working here, which would enable us to have our full occupancy rate of 85 residents,” said Rogers. “That’s what it looks like when our facility is truly meeting the needs of this community and our vulnerable seniors.”

“Unfortunately, our workforce pool is so diminished that hiring qualified staffers has become impossible," continued Rogers. "As of last month, we could only field 15 full time employees. Without the staff, we can’t service our residents. Without our residents, we don’t have a business. We can’t survive at this occupancy.”

Steve Buck, President and Chief Executive Officer of Care Providers Oklahoma, said the closure represents a disturbing trend, and both state and federal policymakers should take notice.

“The future of long-term care in Oklahoma is seriously jeopardized by this ongoing workforce crisis,” said Buck. “That crisis is fueled by two factors. The first is pay. Our Medicaid rate is designed to support skilled nursing professionals earning an approximate wage of $12 an hour, which is less than an entry level job at a box store or a fast-food restaurant. We must bring the funding up to a level where we can afford to pay em-

ployees competitive rates.

“Second, we are not creating enough interest in skilled nursing as a profession or creating the pathways we need for training and employment,” continued Buck. “Just as the state has successfully done for STEM careers, we need a way to emphasize the importance and availability of jobs in nursing and health care.”

“The human cost of failing to address this workforce crisis is real and it is scary,” said Buck. “When a facility closes, as is happening in Sapulpa, many residents are moved to other facilities that are far away from family and friends. Others are moved back into residential living environments that cannot fully meet their medical needs. Neither outcome honors the commitment we have made as a community to adequately caring for and respecting our vulnerable seniors. Our Legislature understands that which is why they have approved $4.5 million in federal ARPA funds for training long term care staff. That is a positive step towards a long-term solution, but our short-term funding needs have reached a crisis level.”

About Care Providers Oklahoma: Previously the Oklahoma Association of Health Care Providers (OAHCP), Care Providers Oklahoma represents the interests of more than 18,000 residents and 19,000 professionals that work in Oklahoma’s long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, assisted living homes and intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Care Providers Oklahoma's mission is to assist its members in providing the highest quality care to the seniors, individuals with disabilities and vulnerable Oklahomans who live in our facilities. We advocate for the enhancement of that care so that Oklahoma long-term care residents may live in the comfort and dignity they deserve.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 9

Gifts for seniors who like to travel Retirement provides a chance for adults who have worked throughout their lives to take a step back, relax and enjoy the fruits of their labors.

Though the most indelible image associated with retirement might once have been a rocking chair, modern retirees like to get up and go, and shoppers can take that joie de vivre into consideration as they look for the perfect gift for retirees who can't wait to fly the friendly skies or hit the open road.

Maps: It might seem simple, but roadmaps can be an ideal gift for retirees. A recent poll from RBC Wealth Management found that 63 percent of Americans age 50 and older say travel is an important retirement goal. Roadmaps of their own country or a foreign country can help seniors plan their dream vacations. Seniors can study maps and create their own routes as they visit popular tourist attractions and find lesser known locales along the way.

Vouchers/gift cards: Airline vouchers can inspire retirees to take to the skies and visit locales that have long taken up real estate on their bucket lists. If seniors prefer to take to the open road, hotel vouchers or Visa gift cards that can be spent anywhere that accepts credit cards can help pay for gas, meals or entry to popular parks and tourist attractions.

Projector and portable screen: Retirees may want to get away from it all, but that doesn't mean they have to leave everything behind. A projector and portable screen can let on-the-go seniors enjoy movie night under the stars or watch their

Agency to bring attention to fraud linked to Medicare OKLAHOMA CITY – In conjunction with the first national Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s (OID) Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) is inviting Medicare beneficiaries to the Summer Senior Fraud Live Events on June 23 and July 14. OID has partnered with MAP, the Oklahoma Social Security Administration, the Oklahoma Department of Securities, the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, AARP Oklahoma and the National Insurance Crime Bureau to educate and empower Oklahomans in the fight against fraud targeting senior citizens.

“We’re excited to bring back these in-person events and continue to work with our partners to help Oklahomans protect themselves from fraud,” Director of the MAP division Ray Walker said. “Educational events like this will help individuals stay safe and protect the Medicare program for generations to come.”

The Summer Senior Fraud Live Events, funded in part by the SMP grant through the Administration for Community Living, will be held at the OID’s Oklahoma City office. These in-person events will consist of two one-day sessions led by speakers with diverse areas of expertise such as state agency directors, Medicare professionals and fraud prevention professionals. The topics include Medicare and healthcare fraud, contractor fraud, cyber scams, investment fraud and securities fraud.

These events are free for senior adults and include breakfast. Registration is required because of limited capacity. To register, visit oid.ok.gov/summerseniorfraud/.

The Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, held June 5-11, kicks off on June 5, or “6-5,” because most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65 years old. Learn more about Medicare Fraud Prevention Week at www.smpresource.org If you have questions about other insurance issues, please contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1-800-522-0071 or visit our website at www.oid.ok.gov.

PHOTO PROVIDED

When buying gifts for a seniors there are options for those who flike to travel.

favorite teams even when they're far from home.

This can be an especially good gift for retirees who are anxious to gas up their RV and leave home behind for a few weeks.

Lifetime pass to world-renowned parks: All United States citizens or permanent residents are eligible for the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass, which provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites across the country. Those sites are managed by federal agencies like the National Park Service, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Bureau of Reclamation, among others. A

similar system is in place in Canada, where adults age 65 and up can gain unlimited admission for a full year to more than 80 Parks Canada locations across the country.

Tablet: Of course, retirees may still want to enjoy some of the comforts of home while they're off in parts unknown. A new tablet can help traveling retirees read the latest bestsellers and stay in touch with family and friends via video conferencing apps like Zoom. Many campgrounds and hotels now provide free WiFi to guests, so a tablet can be just what on-the-go retirees need to stay connected to life back home.

Page 10 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

The politics of gas prices Lawmaker wants answers

By Steve Gust It’s amazing how some people try to spin the higher fuel prices.

Most people know that it’s because of the president’s efforts against fossil fuels. He nixed Steve Gust the big pipeline and generally hasn’t been a “drill baby drill” advocate. Yet Biden simply says it’s because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He expects people to automatically assume that’s the truth.

Or some of the liberals will simply blame oil companies for greed. They all got together somewhere and decided to push up the prices. I wonder why they didn’t do that when oil was $30 a barrel?

What I don’t understand is why the politicians don’t seem too distressed about it all? Shouldn’t they be in an “all hands on deck,” posture? The fuel prices are also triggering higher costs for everything else. If it comes on a truck, expect to pay more.

I think there are simply too many

people like Debbie Stabenow. She’s a Democrat senator from Michigan.

The other day, during a Congressional hearing in Washington, she was bragging about her new electric car. She drove the thing from Michigan to D.C. and it didn’t bother her one bit to see the signs on how high gasoline prices were. That’s pretty much the attitude the politicians have. They have the money they need for gas or an electric car so what do they care?

In the real world, costly gas takes a toll on the middle and lower classes.

Inflation is at record levels and all the president can do is complain about bad press coverage to late night socialist Jimmy Kimmel .

We have a huge leadership crisis in America.

—And why didn’t Attorney General Merrick Garland file felony charges against people protesting against Supreme Court justices at their homes. There are laws against that.

Yet Garland did nothing.

He should resign.

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

from OU’s Castiglione Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, this week sent a letter to University of Oklahoma Athletic Director Joe Castiglione asking for a response regarding reports he used his position to compel OU student athletes to participate in a unity march.

Humphrey represents House District 19 in southeast Oklahoma but stays in Slaughterville when the House is in session. He said it is through the relationships he's built with many in this community as well as from the many students from his district that attend OU that he decided to get involved in this matter.

Below is the text of the letter.

University of Oklahoma Athletic Director Joe Castiglione: Once again, I am requesting your response to my following reasonable inquiry: Your position as University of Oklahoma athletic director has enormous influence in our state. I have received reports that you have used your influence and office to compel all OU student athletes to participate in a “unity march.” Moreover, it is my understanding this march was to support activist organizations like Black Lives Matters (BLM) and other socalled social justice groups. Also, there are concerns about embroidered patches promoting

This cartoon has been published before

BLM and/or other radical organizations on athletic uniforms.

If these allegations are true, please specify how and by what authority you are forcing student athletes to participate and promote this social agenda, particularly when BLM has been exposed as a money source for certain of its paid leadership.

Accordingly, I would ask you to answer if you have used state and federal resources in the forms of programs, equipment, and apparel to advocate, benefit and advertise for these socialist political organizations. Consequently, I am requesting you verify the cost to the university for requiring all student athletes to march in the “unity march.” Also, I want you to document the cost of having these patches placed on uniforms, apparel or other items.

I also am requesting you provide accurate information on any contribution you, the University, or its foundations received from activist organizations for advancing their agendas.

This includes, but is not limited to, BLM. I trust you will not withhold any requested information and if you have doubts, please contact me for clarification. If you choose not to provide this requested information, please explain in writing why you are not providing it and your reason for doing so.

I believe two weeks should provide adequate time to produce the requested documents and information. The Oklahoma public needs and deserves answers as to why OU may be advancing a political agenda the majority opposes.

Our families need us

By Sen. Lankford If our families are strong, our nation is strong. If our families are weak, our nation is weak. Nations struggle when families struggle; it’s just that simple. We are more interconnected than ever through social media, but we are also more isolated than ever. Government cannot solve our isolation; Lankford only families can solve that kind of deep hurt and loss.

We have hard issues to solve as a nation because we have heart issues to solve. The federal government will never be able to solve heart issues like our families and communities can. But in moments of fear and desperation, some look to Washington, DC, and say, “Do something,” when they should instead ask, “How can I make a difference in my home and in my community?” As Mother Teresa said, “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.”

We have three safety nets in America: families, nonprofits, then government. No one should think government is good at raising children and equipping

people for life. Government should make sure the lights are on, keep the roads through our states drivable, ensure a common currency, provide national defense, and other specific things. Government cannot replace families. It cannot determine the values taught in school, the definition of sex, and the spiritual orthodoxy of our culture. But inevitably when there is more poverty, more crime, and more drug use, it seems people immediately look to government to solve the problems of our society. Our cultural challenges require mentoring, role models, and loving discipline. There is no vote in Washington or federal program that can replace an engaged mom and dad.

When a disaster strikes, families in Oklahoma get to work cleaning up with our neighbors — staying until the job is done, sometimes for months. In 1995, we earned the moniker, “Oklahoma Standard,” after the way families came together during the horrific Oklahoma City bombing recovery. During our natural disasters, we have noticed that government will step in eventually, but the first people on the scene are families and neighbors. Strong families and a committed faith community make all the difference when the trial comes.

People of faith are challenged in Scripture to honor their father and mother, train up their children, and as

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,

the apostle Paul wrote in 1 Timothy, “provide for their family.” When our families struggle, we should not look for government to “fix them.” That is our responsibility as families. Children struggle with all kinds of temptations. Marriages face real crisis moments, and older parents need our love and care. Those needs are best met by families, especially families of faith, not government.

Our families need us, and we need them.

What will make a difference for our nation’s future? Redeeming the brokenness in families, starting with your own. People who want our nation to “get along” better, but can’t get along with their own family, have missed the point. If family members are at odds with each other, our nation will be at odds with each other. It’s not that we all have to agree, but we should at least strive to practically love our extended family and set the example for others in our homes.

Donate time or money to family-focused nonprofits in your local community to make sure we empower local families to do what government cannot. Parents must remain in control of the education and upbringing of their children — that is their right, not the government’s. Directly mentor young people, particularly those who don’t have a mom or dad present in their life. Care for our senior adults and be sure they have an opportunity to mentor the next generation on marriage, money management, and how to get through tough times as a family. I have heard it said, “Wisdom is passed down from grandparent to grandchild.” Let’s not lose that wisdom in the hustle of modern life.

We can support pregnancy resource centers for young mothers and adoption and foster services for orphans and stranded children. We can set the example for our kids when we serve meals together at rescue missions or donate new or gently used clothes to individuals and families who need a fresh start. We can work as families to help build homes for the homeless and help bring professional services like haircuts and dental care.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 11

PHOTO PROVIDED/UCO PHOTO SERVICES

The University of Central Oklahoma ranked as a top institution worldwide according to the recent 2023 QS World University Rankings. UCO was included on the list for the first time in the university’s history. With 2,462 institutions analyzed, only 202 universities from the U.S. were ranked along with 1,220 institutions worldwide. Pictured, from left to right, Timothy Kok, director of international affairs at Central; Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar, UCO president; Jessica Turner, group managing director at QS Quacquarelli Symonds; and, Ben Stower, senior vice president at QS Quacquarelli Symonds.

Group awards UCO a top ranking The University of Central Oklahoma ranked as a top institution worldwide according to the recent 2023 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings, the world’s leading provider of services, analytics and insight to the global higher education sector. UCO was included on the list for the first time in the university’s history. Only 25 new entrants from the U.S. made the list, including Central.

With 2,462 institutions analyzed, only 202 universities from the U.S. were ranked along with 1,220 institutions worldwide. UCO is one of only three institutions in Oklahoma to be included on the list. Central also received the Welcome to the World Award, which shines a spotlight on new entries in the World University Rankings 2023 and is the only institution in the U.S. to be recognized for this award.

“The UCO Office of Global Affairs team has focused energy on this goal we set together two years ago,” said Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar, UCO president.

“We are now among the few American colleges to be formally recognized on this list internation-

ally. International institutions place a high value on this particular ranking, and UCO will be recognized for its incredible accomplishments and international potential.”

QS World University Rankings, published annually, is designed to help prospective students find the leading school in their field of interest. The ranking is based upon eight key metrics that effectively capture university performance, including academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-student ratio, citations per faculty, international faculty ratio, international student ratio, employment outcomes and international research network. The rankings encourage collaboration and individuals to support the success of the institution.

“QS World University Rankings is considered one of the top three most significant ranking systems in measuring the quality of education among higher learning institutions around the globe,” said Timothy Kok, director of international affairs at Central.

“We are truly excited to have made it on the rankings in the 2023 publication by placing ourselves among top institutions around the world. It

demonstrates our commitment to our local, national and international communities, providing excellent, quality education for our students. UCO is proud of this milestone placement in the QS World University Rankings.”

Ideally located just north of Oklahoma City in Edmond, Oklahoma, the University of Central Oklahoma is the state’s largest metropolitan university and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Central is dedicated to developing in students the confidence to succeed through transformative learning experiences, preparing future leaders in an opportunity-rich environment with access to more than 200 student organizations and the internship, employment, entertainment and cultural offerings of the rapidly growing Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

For more a complete list of the QS World University Rankings 2023, visit www.topuniversities.com.

For more information about Central, visit www.uco.edu.

Page 12 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Over 20 million guests have visited Graceland since it opened to the public in 1982.

Rich musical heritage permeates Nashville

By Elaine Warner If Nashville made its musical bones on country music, Memphis’ became a music mecca with blues on Beale Street in the early 1900s. Later in the 20th century, Sam Phillips, Sun Records and Elvis Warner Presley ushered in the era of rock and roll, rock-a-billy, and rhythm and blues.

Stax Records celebrated soul. And now the town rollicks with rhythm and shakes with sound.

I began my explorations in Memphis music with a pilgrimage – to pay homage to The King. Yep, Graceland – that temple of over-the top taste (?) and Elvisian excess. Elvis bought the mansion in 1957, redecorating several times. It’s easy to dis the décor. I had to keep reminding myself of the year --- and the fact that I, too, had green shag carpet – still do, just not on the ceiling. And the harvest gold refrigerator and the avocado sink in the kitchen also called back memories.

The living room features antiqued, mirror tiles and fireplace on one wall, white carpet and white upholstery.

Windows are framed with heavy, royal blue, velvet drapes. Through a wide opening, flanked by clear glass and stained glass peacocks, visitors can see a white grand piano in the music room.

A large, Italian chandelier hangs over the dining room table which is set with Elvis and Priscilla’s Noritake “Buckingham” wedding china. Elvis, who placed much importance on family dinners, always sat at the head of the table.

Competing in the category of most outré interior design would be the Jungle Room and the Pool Room.

The Jungle Room, inspired by Elvis’ visits to Hawaii, is carpeted in green shag, floor and ceiling. The Pool Room resembles a Middle Eastern tent with walls and ceiling covered with 450 yards of wildly-patterned, pleated fabric.

Outbuildings house more Elvis memorabilia. The Trophy Building offers family history, gifts given to Elvis, personal effects, photos, and more. This is where you’ll get a feel for what a fine person, how generous, Elvis was.

Last stop is the pool area and the Meditation Garden. Here, Elvis, his mother, father and grandmother are buried.

As press, I was given the VIP tour – a more extensive tour than I had previously taken. This tour includes an area where Elvis’ father and stepmother lived. It now holds a collection of Elvis’ jewelry and personal items. Elvis obviously loved gold – gold jewelry, gold plated guns, goldframed sun-glasses, even a special golden Social Security card.

We were also allowed in the archive building. Walls are covered

The picture of the ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ hangs on the wall in the picture next to the piano, also pictured. The drum set in the foreground belonged to U2.

Covers of albums made at Stax line the walls of this hall in the Stax Museum of American Soul.

with photos and cabinets holding more memorabilia. One of the most interesting items was Elvis’ first mobile phone. Obsessed after watching James Bond (From Russia with Love), Elvis paid between $3000 and $4000 for the 18 pound instrument.

The other special treat was the opportunity to put on cotton gloves and pose for a picture with one of Elvis’ D76 Martin guitars.

Following the home tour, my hosts and I headed for Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex. Museums here displayed everything from Elvis’ car collection, his costumes, films, gold records, time in the Army – basically all things Elvis.

I’ve enjoyed his music, but this visit made me appreciate him so much more as a person and humanitarian.

And he didn’t broadcast his charity or fame. The only award he ever accepted in person was being named one of the nation’s Ten Outstanding Young Men awarded in 1971 by the Jaycees for his impact on music and culture and his many charitable activities.

My Memphis music tour had just started. Next stop – Sun Records. It was Sam Phillips’ recording studio where a young Elvis walked in to make a record for his mama. He subsequently made many records for Sun. The small museum is packed

with information about Phillips and a whole slew of stars who got their starts with this label.

How cool to see the “Million Dollar Photo” of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis in an impromptu jam session in the very room where it took place.

The Stax Museum of American Soul is a much slicker facility, also packed with exhibits about names everyone knows – Aretha, Isaac Hayes, Al Green, Otis Redding and others. I knew Donald “Duck” Dunn and Steve Cropper from The Blues Brothers movie but learned more about their association with Booker T. and the M.Gs. One of my favorite exhibits – easy to miss amidst all the glitz – was a map of the area around the Stax Museum showing where various musical artists had lived. The amount of talent in that small community was astounding. In addition to Aretha Franklin, there were names I didn’t recognize – including Memphis Slim, Reverend William Herbert Brewster and Lucie E. Campbell – who are recognized in the Memphis Music Hall of Fame.

Between my trips to Nashville and Memphis, I was learning so much more about American music. But I wasn’t through learning – there were two more museums with more to see and hear.

The Memphis Rock and Soul Museum, in the FedEx sports and entertainment complex, takes the story of rock and soul from the cotton fields to the pinnacles of fame. With exhibits created by the Smithsonian Institution, displays highlight Memphis’ musical history from the 1930s through the 1970s. A digital audio tour guide supplies lots of extra information and over 100 pieces of music.

My last stop was the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, just a short walk away. Tucked between the Hard Rock Café and legendary clothiers, Lansky’s, the MMHofF salutes nearly 100 musical standouts who have been connected to Memphis. You can go from A to Z – Aretha to ZZ Top – to learn about musicians of all genres – even including opera star, Marguerite Piazza. Artifacts range from outrageous outfits to a destroyed piano, but my favorite is twothirds of one of Jerry Lee Lewis’ Caddys.

End a day with stroll down Beale Street – where it all began. Music pours out over the street from multiple venues. The throb of the bass and the beat of the drums are the heartbeat of the city.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 13

Parker Sands wins OGA junior boys championship

By Steve Steele The Oklahoma Golf Association Junior Boys and Girls Championships had wet weather adjust the schedule for the week. The tournament was scheduled for Monday, June 6th thru Steele Thursday, June 9th at Lincoln Park West GC in Oklahoma City.

The tournament will return to Kickingbird GC next June, 2023, the week of Kickingbird's re-opening.

Rain delays of three hours on Tuesday and four hours on Wednesday

had the kids and spectators ending with a Friday morning finish.

The 36 hole qualifying rounds slated for 18 on Monday and 18 on Tuesday ended up with the kids only being able to complete nine holes on Tuesday, so qualifying was shortened to 27 holes. This week we will give the results of the 16-18 Boys division and next week I will share the results of the 14-15 Boys division and the Girls Division. For the 16-18 Boys division it took even par just to get into a six for two spots playoff to claim the 15th and 16th seed to qualify for match play. There were 58 Boys competing for the 16 spots.

Here is how they fared.:

Ranking 1 Ryder Cowan - Edmond -10 2 Parker Sands - Edmond -8 3 Drew Mabrey - Tulsa -4 4 Jake Hopper - Norman -4 5 Rhett Hughes - Edmond -3 6 Sutton McMillan - Choctaw -3 7 CJ Phillips - Edmond -3 8 Bryant Polhill - Edmond -3 9 Alex Bloxham - Broken Arrow -2 10 Grant Gudgel - Stillwater -1 11 Luke Goodbary - Edmond -1 12 Parker Payne - Norman -1 13 Josh Stuart - Blanchard -1 14 Jack Pfister - Edmond -1 15 Sam Morris - Tulsa E 16 Carson Wright - Norman E

66-31 - 97 66-33 - 99 68-35 - 103 67-36 - 103 69-35 - 104 69-35 - 104 68-36 - 104 66-38 - 104 70-35 - 105 73-33 - 106 70-36 - 106 69-37 - 106 68-38 - 106 67-39 - 106 72-35 - 107 70-37 - 107

The Round of 16

Parker Sands played practically mistake free golf, he carded just one bogey in 89 holes of golf for the week. In August he will be a junior at Edmond North. In the final match he was 5 under par on the 14 holes he played with Rhett Hughes who will be a senior at Edmond Santa Fe. Hughes has signed a letter of intent to play golf at Nebraska in 2023. In the quarterfinals, Sands faced recent 6A Individual State Champion Grant Gudgel and Sands played wonderful golf carding six birdies and an eagle in 14 holes for his 5&4 victory. In the semifinal match with Choctaw's Sutton McMillan Sands drained a momentum changing 30 footer for birdie on the par 5 13th and rode that to the house for a hard fought 1 up victory.

The semifinal match was his only match that made it past the 16th hole in the four rounds of match play. Sands family moved to Edmond from the Twin Cities area of Minnesota in 2020.

Ryder Cowan left, and Parker Sands right.

Sands parents, Mike and Sherry, chose Edmond in part because of Parker's bond with qualifying medalist Ryder Cowan and both young men play out of Oak Tree National.

Page 14 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of new movie ‘Jurassic World Dominion’

Summer is back & so are the dinosaurs

By George Gust “Jurassic World: Dominion” picks up four years after the destruction of Isla Nublar from the events of “Fallen Kingdom” dinosaurs now live —- and hunt --alongside humans all over the world. This fragile balance will reshape the future and determine, once and for all, whether human beings are to remain the apex predators on a planet they now share with history's most fearsome creatures in a new Era. “Jurassic World: Dominion” brings to a close an odd restart to the quintessential summer popcorn blockbuster film “Jurassic Park.” What started out as a nostalgia-fueled hand off from the original film, ends in much the same way but now with the nostalgia factor turned to maximum with the inclusion of the original cast of Laura Dern, Sam Neil and Jeff Goldblum.

Where “Dominion” falls down is the delicate balance between adding upon the lore built up by the previous two entries and the reverence for the original movie that “Dominion” never can successfully navigate.

Writer/Director Colin Trevorrow is no stranger to this big budget spectacle franchise as “Dominion” sees him returning to the director’s chair after handing the reigns over to another director, and in terms of

spectacle “Dominion” fits the bill with plenty of pulsepounding action sequences featuring gorgeous genetically modified dinos in interesting environments. But for however engaging the action sequences can be, there are far too many logical leaps the script asks you to overlook, so much so to the point of distraction.

And with more focus on non-dinosaur related plots, “Dominion” is a movie that is nominally about dinosaurs but wants to focus more on some mind-boggling plotlines that fall well short of satisfying.

With the original cast returning there are a lot of characters to juggle, but “Dominion” does a fair job in

doling out fun character moments for each of the returning cast. Goldblum especially brings his unique energy to fan favorite smart Alec Malcom character with some cutting criticism for all involved. And Pratt returns as the coolest guy in the world ™ and turns in another stoic performance in a script that once again fails to play on his movie star charm.

Overall, “Jurassic World: Dominion” is an oddly constructed and produced conclusion to the franchise that has been entertaining summer movie-goers with the majesty of dinosaurs, but fails to capture the wonder that “Jurassic Park” sparked all those years ago.

The result is another legacy franchise trilogy that only approximates the magic of the original. However, if you’re able to look past some of the script’s plot holes “Jurassic World: Dominion” can be a fun ride of popcorn dinosaur spectacle.

“Jurassic World: Dominion” is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of action, some violence and language. Now available in theaters.

3 out of 5 stars.

You can reach George Gust to comment on this film, or any of his motion picture reviews at gust.george@gmail.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Answers appearing on Page 19

‘Jurassic World: Dominion’ reunites the ‘Jurassic Park’ cast with the fresh blood from ‘Jurassic World’ to mixed results in the swan song for a franchise destined for extinction ... until the next reboot.

Arcadia concert set for June 19 ARCADIA – The Tulsa band Gypsy Twang will perform at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 19, as part of the Elm Tree Concert Series at the Arcadia Round Barn.

Gypsy Twang has been together as a band, in one form or another, since 2009. Current members are Sarah Barker Huhn on lead vocals and guitar, Steve Huhn on upright bass, John Williams on guitar, lead vocals and harmonica, and Kurt “Frenchie” Neilsen on mandolin and tenor guitar.

John and Sarah deliver vocals, often as duets, as well as writing original tunes for the band. They describe their music as Okie songs with Gypsy soul and also pay homage to their roots, rendering folk songs from heroes such as Woody Guthrie and those written by friends in the Red Dirt scene.

The concert will be held on the north side of the barn beneath the shade of the giant elm tree. Admission is free but donations are accepted for the upkeep of the Round Barn, which is owned and operated by the nonprofit Arcadia Historical and Preservation Society. The museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about the concert, call Joe Baxter at 405-8331350.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: At the Beach ACROSS 1. Like a certain eagle 5. *Beach-goer's protective acronym 8. "To ____ and to hold" 12. Arabian bigwig 13. Indian lentil staple 14. Wild West grazer 15. TV prize 16. Between Illinois and Nebraska 17. Quick and light on one's feet 18. *Wooden walkway by the beach 20. Not this 21. Unwritten examinations 22. Cherry middle 23. Relating to a rib 26. *Beach suit type 29. Kanye's genre 30. Pool hall mishap 33. 52 cards 35. *Sunny Dutch Caribbean vacation destination 37. Be unwell 38. Eagle's home 39. Precedes carotene?

40. Twisted or meandered 42. Chill, with 'out' 43. Seat by day, bed by night 45. Modifies 47. *Just out of the water 48. Parallel grooves 50. Arrival times 52. *Wave rider 56. Nitrogen, in the olden days 57. In ____ of 58. Hipbones 59. Parcel of land 60. Et alibi 61. Auctioneer's exclamation 62. A.C.T. section 63. Tie the knot 64. *Casual beach tops

DOWN 1. British Broadcasting Corporation, colloquially

2. Shells in a magazine 3. Capital of Peru 4. Fungus damage (2 words) 5. *Same as sandbar 6. Catch for a ratchet's notch, pl.

7. Criticism 8. *Water at its highest (2 words) 9. The largest continent 10. Retired electric Chevy 11. Compass dir.

13. Hindu Festival of Lights 14. Dyed fabric 19. Type of TV show 22. Eating contest staple 23. *Decapod on a beach 24. *Propelled like a paddle board 25. Plural of sputum 26. Type of bin in a grocery store 27. Bundle of axons 28. Slipperier 31. *Building material found at

the beach 32. Jack Ryan's and Jason Bourne's org.

34. Barrels of beer 36. *Hasselhoff's beach TV show 38. Improvise 40. Exercise group 41. Upbraiding 44. Annoy 46. Lao Tzu follower 48. Hotel room option 49. Metallica's "Don't ____ On Me" 50. Poet Pound 51. To perfection (3 words) 52. A bunch 53. *End-of-day summertime soother 54. Rub the wrong way 55. Pops 56. Cash dispenser

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 15

The Beach Boys

Beach Boys set benefit concert To help Food Bank America’s Band, The Beach Boys, featuring Mike Love and Bruce Johnston, will make a stop in Oklahoma City as part of their Sixty Years of the Sounds of Summer Tour to help raise money for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma’s Food for Kids Programs. All net proceeds raised from this show will be donated to the Regional Food Bank.

The concert will be held at The Civic Center Music Hall, September 24, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday June 10th and can be purchased online at www.okcciviccenter.com, or over the phone at 405-594-8300, Guest starring with The Beach Boys will be Surf Rock Icon Dean Torrence of “Jan and Dean” fame.

As a special offer to all fans attending the show, a digital download of Mike Love’s new album, 12 Sides of Summer is included with every purchased ticket. Details provided by The Civic Center Music Hall.

“With venues now fully open, we are excited to make OKC part of our tour stop said show producer and Edmond resident John Occhipinti. Mike and Bruce are very excited to once again play Oklahoma City especially given the causes at hand. “We’ve invited the community together for a night of “Fun, Fun, Fun” music while helping raise money to fight childhood hunger. We are very grateful for our event sponsors, MIO “Made in Oklahoma” Coalition, KOMA Radio and Okolahoma Soda Company for their generous support of our show. Oklahomans are second to none when it comes to helping others. We expect the turn out to be huge said Occhipinti.

In Oklahoma, too many children live with hunger every day. Every $100 raised from The Beach Boys’ concert will support a child in a Food for Kids Program for an entire school year. Last school year, the Regional Food Bank provided more than 2.3 million meals for chronically hungry children through its Food for Kids Programs.

“In order to thrive, children need access to nutritious food and that’s what we provide through the Food for Kids Programs,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. “We are so thankful for The Beach Boys and their devoted fans for joining us in the fight against childhood hunger.”

You can capsulize most pop music acts by reciting how many hits they’ve had and how many millions of albums they’ve sold. But these conventional measurements fall short when you’re assessing the impact of The Beach Boys. This band has birthed a torrent of hit singles and sold albums by the tens of millions. But its greater significance lies in the fact that The Beach Boys’ songs have forever changed the musical landscape, profoundly influencing countless performing artists to follow.

The band is led by Mike Love, who, along with longtime member Bruce Johnston, musical director Scott Totten, Brian Eichenberger, Christian Love, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill, Keith Hubacher and Randy Leago, continue the legacy of the iconic group. Grammy- winning songwriter Bruce Johnston joined The Beach Boys in 1965, replacing Glenn Campbell, who filled-in for Brian Wilson, on vocals/bass, when he retired from touring. Highly regarded in his field, Johnston’s vocal work with such legendary artists as Elton John and Pink Floyd firmly established him among rock’s elite artists.

Page 16 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Susan Isaacs earns recognition

by Edmond’s Character Council Susan Isaacs received recognition as Champion of Character for Patience on Monday, June 6th.

Character Council of Edmond President Jim Hulsey, Vice President, Diane Krakowski and board member, Gloria Baumann, honored her during a driveby presentation at the Clinic Pharmacy. Also in attendance was the former owner of the pharmacy, Duane Lawrence, who nominated Susan for the distinction.

Susan moved to Edmond in 1989 to complete her college education. She applied to work at several different places. Duane gave her the opportunity to find out if pharmacy was what she wanted to do.

Duane observed Susan’s patience from the time she applied for the job. She checked with him every day until he made his decision. Duane said her patience “catapulted her to the top of an excellent group of applicants.”

Susan continued to work for Duane for 25 years. She bought the pharmacy when Duane retired in 2013.

The notification of her selection as Champion of Character for Patience amused both Susan and her husband. Susan said, “I most definitely do not exemplify patience. I have strived to be more patient my entire life.”

Susan’s mother, Virginia Hiebert, a pediatric nurse and nursing professor, modeled forbearance. Susan said, “My mother was an incredibly patient person. I do not have the ability to be that patient, but I certainly strive to improve. My husband is also very patient.” Susan’s husband, Doug, teaches P.E. at Russell Dougherty Elementary.

At work, Susan finds the demands on her may test her patience. Sometimes she’s taking care of customers, answering employee questions, and or-

dering merchandise and supplies, all at the same time. Susan said, “The one thing that pushes all my buttons is technology.” Machines often malfunction at unexpected and inconvenient times.

When she finds her patience stretched, Susan said, “I take a breath and tell myself that the issue is fixable and not to let it ruin my day. Laughter is the best medicine for me. l make a joke to ease the tension.”

Duane said, “As owner of the pharmacy, Susan faced tremendous challenges, remaining open throughout the COVID pandemic and keeping the business afloat by working long hours under extremely trying circumstances, including several terrible COVID family losses.”

Susan took up the slack and worked more hours than ever during the pandemic. After both of her parents died from COVID within 8 days of one another, she encountered greater challenges. Dispensing medications and giving counsel for COVID patients made it difficult to keep her emotions in check.

Susan said, “At work, when my patience is being tried, I imagine the people that I love, and how I would want them to be treated in a similar situation. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and kindness.”

Susan is least patient with herself but finds it easiest to show patience toward the elderly. It frustrates her when she doesn’t get things done on time or isn’t as effective as she wants. However, she enjoys listening to the stories of the elderly.

Susan said, “They are wise, experienced and have so much to give.”

Susan’s parents were the late Don and Virginia Hiebert. She was raised in Tonkawa. Susan and Doug have been married for 28 years and raised three sons, Lawson, Caleb and Weston.

Susan Isaacs holds her plaque with Duane Lawrence who nominated her.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 17

Juneteenth celebration at upcoming Heard on Hurd Citizens Bank of Edmond’s Heard on Hurd returns on Saturday, June 18, at the corner of Broadway and Hurd in downtown Edmond. This month’s event will celebrate Juneteenth and highlight local community efforts. Attendees can expect to enjoy the usual wide variety of food trucks, pop-up shops and local music from 6-10 p.m.

“There are several wonderful events happening across our state and metro-area this weekend to honor and celebrate Juneteenth,” said Jill Castilla, president and CEO at Citizens Bank of Edmond.

“Citizens Bank of Edmond is proud to support these events and we hope the celebration is felt in

full for those that attend Heard on Hurd.”

Opening for Heard on Hurd this month, Stephen Salewon is a multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter who is influenced by modern pop, folk and African rhythms. He will take the stage at 6pm.

Then be ready to stomp your feet and clap your hands when family funk duo, Sugar Free Allstars takes the stage at 7:20 p.m.

Headlining Heard on Hurd the Noah Engh Trio playing upbeat American roots music starting at 8:40 p.m.

This month’s featured nonprofit is RestoreOKC. RestoreOKC is a community development organi-

zation in Northeast Oklahoma City that exists to bridge relationships of reconciliation that result in restorative justice. Through housing, economic development, educational supports, job-training and more they seek to see whole families break whole cycles for their whole lives.

“We are honored to join the Heard on Hurd family in June and get the opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth together,” said Caylee Dodson, executive director of RestoreOKC. “We are celebrating freedom and dreaming together about how we continue the fight for freedom and flourishing in all our respective communities.”

Inflation has state worried

Vance Auto Group supports worthy cause PHOTO PROVIDED

Megan Vance, C.O.O of Vance Auto Group, present a check to Cody Lawson and Ron Cunningham of Central Oklahoma Camp, Make Promises Happen. The money was raised during the Midwest Jeepfest held at John Vance Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM in Guthrie. Megan Vance is Vice President and C.O.O. of Vance Auto Group.

OBI to reopen renovated center Oklahoma Blood Institute will soon reopen the doors to its newly renovated Edmond Donor Center.

Located at 3904 S. Broadway, the Edmond Donor Center will reopen Friday, June 17. The updated donor center is in the Market Depot building on the southwest corner of Broadway and 33rd Street.

The new donor center features a stylish aesthetic centered around donor comfort. New donor chairs, increased privacy and other amenities are all designed to enhance the donor experience.

OBI’s temporary Edmond donor center located at 13431 N. Broadway Ext., OKC will be closed June 15 and 16 to move equipment and supplies to the remodeled location. Edmondarea donors wishing to give blood on those days are invited to donate at

any of OBI’s other three metro-area locations.

“With additional space and capacity, the Edmond Donor Center truly sets the standard for the donor experience,” said Dr. John Armitage, OBI’s president and CEO. “Our donors save lives. By improving and upgrading our facilities, we can show these generous Oklahomans how important they are to us and the patients who count on their giving spirit.”

The need for blood donations remains at critical levels in Oklahoma and throughout the country. Donating blood takes about an hour and can save the lives of up to three local patients.

Oklahoma Blood Institute supports the inventory for patients in more than 160 hospitals, medical facilities and air ambulances statewide.

Fairgrounds events help bring in $2.78 million for economy The OKRVA Regional Championships took place at the OKC Fairgrounds April 30 through May 1. The volleyball tournament took place in the Bennett Event Center and Pavilion. Sixty percent of attendees traveled from out-of-town, while 40 percent were locals. Attendance for the event exceeded 16,000, generating more than $2.78 million in direct spending into the Oklahoma City economy.

Six Oklahoma City Public School Graduations took place at the OKC Fairgrounds May 16 through 18.

Graduates and their supporters filled the Jim Norick Arena for each individual school’s ceremony. Ten percent of attendees traveled from out-of-town, while 90 percent were locals. Attendance for the events exceeded 21,000, generating more than $1.99 million in direct spending into the Oklahoma City economy.

The OKC Fairgrounds hosted a total of 18 events during the month of May. In addition to the above mentioned, other events included:

the Triangle Spring Sale, Central 4D Barrel Race, World Warm Up Circuit, Pool & Spa Show, Indie Trunk Show, Cowboys of Color Rodeo, OSU-OKC 2022 Commencement, Oklahoma Craft Beer Festival, Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show, Budweiser’s Custom Car SuperShow Tour, Piedmont High School Graduation, Oklahoman Career Fair, Santa Fe South High School Graduation, Oklahoma Gun Shows, Buchanan’s Vintage Flea Market, and Mid- Del High Schools Graduations. In all, there were 92,537 visitors present during May events held at the OKC Fairgrounds, generatin]g more than $12 million in direct spending into the Oklahoma City economy.

For more information regarding May events, or any upcoming months, please contact the OKC Fairgrounds Office at 405-948-6700. To stay up-to-date on all the OKC Fairgrounds has to offer, visit www.okcfairgrounds.com, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

House Republicans are introducing a slate of inflation relief bills in special session this week, reiterating their support for helping Oklahomans overcome the rising cost of goods and services.

"House Republicans support all plans and paths to get Oklahomans the most inflation relief possible," said House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka. "We're going to put more money in Oklahomans' pockets while helping businesses continue to provide them with good-paying jobs."

An array of bills dealing with personal income tax, grocery tax, business taxes and other inflation relief measures – with options to make the policies permanent or temporary – will be introduced in the third extraordinary session of the 58th Legislature. The bills will be introduced this week for first reading, second read and then voted on by the full House this week.

Page 18 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Republican Women’s Club will hold monthly meeting on June 20 On Monday, June 20th the Edmond Republican Women’s Club will host their monthly meeting. This month’s meeting will be held in Mitch Park just North of the YMCA located in Edmond at the large pavilion. Firehouse Sub box lunches will be available through pre-order. Please email BillyePeterson@gmail.com to place an order. Box lunches are $10 per individual attending. Please get your orders in as soon as possible.

For those not eating lunch, the price is $5. Those having lunch may pay the $10 at the event.

For various lunch sandwich options please e-mail Sandra Leaver at sanleaver@gmail.com.

It should be noted that a portion of all proceeds from Firehouse Subs goes to First Responders and public safety organizations through their 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization.

Speakers this month include Jack-

son Lahmeyer. A fourth generation Oklahoman, Lahmeyer is running for the U.S. Senate and received a B.A. & M.A from Oral Roberts University (ORU) in Theological & Historical Studies. After attending ORU he served as a Crusade Director and traveled the United States with Christ for All Nations. He also served with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and lead more than 300 churches across Oklahoma’s 77 counties as a State Coordinator fighting for conservative values.

Presently Lahmeyer serves as the Lead Pastor of the historic Sheridan Christian Center. A successful businessman he teaches at Victory College. Jackson and his wife, Kendra, have five children and reside in Owasso, Okla.

Other speakers present will be the Vice-Chair of Ok County GOP, Gaylene Stupich.

To place a lunch order please contact BillyePeterson@gmail.com

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Hi and Lois

Blondie

Shoe

Hägar the Horrible

Zits

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 16, 2022 • Page 19

This Father’s Day, why not quit smoking?

With Father’s Day approaching, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline (OTH), a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), is encouraging fathers to take a powerful step toward reclaiming their health by quitting tobacco.

The Helpline offers free services to assist Oklahomans on their quitting journey, including access to free text and email support. Plus, those who sign up for the Helpline’s All Access plan before June 30 will get eight weeks of patches, gum or lozenges and five Quit Coach calls for free. That’s four times more than traditionally offered.

Tobacco remains a serious problem among Oklahoma men. More than 20% report being smokers and nearly 14% use smokeless tobacco.

Male tobacco users are at higher risk of developing numerous health problems, including cancers, heart disease, lung diseases and diabetes.

Firefighter and father Shaun Pryor of Edmond was a smoker and smokeless tobacco user for many years. After suffering a heart attack in his early 30s, he began his journey to a tobacco-free life, thanks to his son’s urging. With the help of free services provided by OTH, Pryor was able to successfully quit. After seeing the improvements in his father’s health, his son has also become a proud advocate for tobacco-free living.

“The people I talked to when I called 1-800QUIT NOW were so encouraging – I had people in my corner that I didn’t expect,” Pryor said.

“Now my son has joined me in speaking out against young kids vaping and staying smokefree.

He’s become a proud advocate beside me to urge others to stay smokefree and utilize the free services from the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline.”

Paola Klein, OTH coordinator, said the cus-

tomizable resources provided by the Helpline are designed to give users the best possible chance to quit successfully. This helps give Oklahoma fathers more time with their families.

"All of our resources are tailored to the specific needs of each user, depending on their lifestyle and personal preferences," she said. "This Father's Day, we encourage Oklahomans who want to quit or are even thinking about quitting to call the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline to give their family the gift of a healthy, tobacco-free life."

Puzzles appear on Page 14

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

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

Please information.

Page 20 • June 16, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure