Edmond Life and Leisure November 14, 2019

November 14, 2019 Vol. 20, No. 25

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

GLOBAL FESTIVAL UCO STUDENTS TO HOST ANNUAL EVENT SATURDAY

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

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

For more information, see page 4.

UCO scores 82 in football victory See Page 16

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Sunny High 57° Low 35°

PHOTO PROVIDED

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Partly Cloudy High 59° Low 40°

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Partly Cloudy High 55° Low 40°

The University of Central Oklahoma International Student Council, along with 14 country and regional associations, will host its annual International Festival from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Nov. 16 at the Edmond Festival Market Place, 30 W. First St. in Edmond. Pictured here, a student performs at the 2018 International Festival.

The University of Central Oklahoma International Student Council, along with 14 country and regional associations, will host its annual International Festival from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Nov. 16 at the Edmond Festival Market Place, 30 W. First St. in Edmond.

“The International Festival is UCO’s way of celebrating International Education Week, a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Education,” said Jared Scism, assistant director of international programming at UCO. “This event provides citizens of

Edmond the opportunity to learn about some of the largest populations living in their community firsthand without needing to leave Edmond.”

International students will showcase their culture through food, performances and displays. Countries, cultures and regions that will be highlighted at the festival include Africa, Arab, China, India, Iran, Japan, Korea, Latin America, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Southeast Asia and Vietnam.

The International Student Council

strives to increase International student involvement within the University of Central Oklahoma community, to build a dialog for cross-cultural communication, to involve international students in campus activities, to encourage an understanding of the democratic process, to develop a strong voice for international student concerns, and to develop internship and scholarship opportunities for international students.

The festival is free and open to the community. For more information, contact Scism at jscism@uco.edu.

Page 2 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 3

Grateful for help from American Cancer Society

Diagnosis leads to a challenging year Stacy McDaniel was in her garage one day when she saw a pile of basketball shoes, soccer cleats and football gear over in one corner. It was all athletic equipment her kids had outgrown, and in that moment “Cleats for Kids” was born.

McDaniel and her husband Mark organized the not-for-profit business to collect and then distribute shoes to kids in need. Today, nearly 10 years later, the organization just donated it’s 100-thousandth pair of shoes.

While celebrating their company’s success, however, McDaniel heard some shocking news: she had cancer.

“At first it was disbelief,” McDaniel said. “After all, cancer is something that happens to someone else, right? But I had a mammogram on a Friday and received my diagnosis on Monday. I was so naïve about it, I didn’t even know there was more than one type of breast cancer. It didn’t run in my family, so I had no reason to know much about it.”

That weekend was a whirlwind of emotions as she struggled to learn as much as she could.

“The very first thing we did was research, and the very first place I searched was the American Cancer Society’s website,” McDaniel said. “That is the information we relied upon, and to be honest it was the only information I looked at. It is truly a life-support system to someone facing cancer. The resources that are there provide you with a path to follow and a way to organize information, and there is so much information.”

McDaniel says her physician gave her the diagnosis, then handed her a packet of materials from ACS. “I took that packet with me everywhere I went,” she said. “I took it to my doctor’s appointments, to my treatments. It helped me feel connected to an organization I know is fighting on my behalf. Before my diagnosis I had always heard of the American Cancer Society and I thought they probably did research or something. Boy, they do so much more.

They give free wigs to patients who are going through chemo, free rides to treatments. It’s amazing the work this organization does. They are there as a complete support system from start to finish.”

Traveling to and from treatment became a way of life, and McDaniel said that made her realize how important it is for Oklahoma to have a place where cancer patients can rest and concentrate on getting better.

“When you are going through treatment, whether it’s chemotherapy, radiation or post-surgical measures, you have to have a place to stay, and that place isn’t in your car,” she said. “Right now, Oklahoma does not have that resource, and that’s why it is so crucial we find the funds to build the new Hope Lodge. It will make such a positive impact on our state.”

Driving is often not an option, she says, and its not until a person gets sick that they realize lodging is going to play a necessary role in their recovery.

“Even if you have a window of time between your chemo treatments where you could go home, you’re too sick to get in the car and drive,” Mc-

Stacy McDaniel Daniel said. “If you have limited resources--and cancer has a way of stripping that quickly --- that leaves you with very few choices. People traveling to Oklahoma City for treatment from the four corners of the state need the comfort of a home away from home. That is what Hope Lodge will offer, and I hope more Oklahomans will support this campaign so we can finally get it built.”

McDaniel was diagnosed late in 2018, and the past year has been one of self-discovery, faith building and finding courage.

“It has also been a year of humility and learning to rely on others,” she added. “That is so important in your cancer journey, realizing you are not going through this alone. For that reason, I am so appreciative of the American Cancer Society, for being there on every step of this scary part of life.”

What McDaniel said she learned is that for a while this will likely be an on-going journey. She finishes her immunotherapy treatments in December, and then she has opted for reconstructive sur-

gery early next year.

“I’m looking at 2019 as my ‘fight year,’” she says with a smile. “So, 2020 will be my ‘recharge year.’

When you go through something like this, you don’t want to lose sight of what you’ve learned, and for me that is finding the joy and beauty in each day, from every person you meet and every conversation you have. You learn to realize you’ll never pass this way again, so every single day is important.”

And equally important to treatment, she says, is trying to maintain a positive attitude. McDaniel is back at work now, finding new ways of securing sneakers, running shoes and soccer cleats for Oklahoma’s kids.

“During some of the hardest days, I would look in the mirror and what I realized is that while cancer can take a lot from you, it can never stop me from being me,” McDaniel said. “I’m still Stacy, and no matter what, cancer cannot take that away.”

Page 4 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

K-Bird Cinema holding special ‘Frozen 2’ event The good news for fans of Disney’s “Frozen” movie is that the release of “Frozen 2” was moved up from its original release date of Nov. 27.

It is now being released for wide distribution on Fri- Ray Hibbard day, Nov. 22. The even better news is that locally owned and operated Kickingbird Cinema will be holding a special event Saturday, Nov. 23 to celebrate the release of “Frozen 2.”

Ticket holders to the 1 p.m. or 4 p.m. showings will have their opportunity to have a picture taken with everyone’s favorite princess. She will be on hand from noon to 12:45 for the 1 p.m. showing and back again from 3 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. for the 4 p.m. showing. There will be special drawings happening as well at both showings.

Kickingbird Cinema is in the Kickingbird shopping center at Danforth and Bryant. It offers a family atmosphere which makes it the perfect place for “Frozen 2” fans to watch the movie. There is no bar in the lobby to distract your children. Just old-fashioned fun with all the activities that they have planned.

It has been almost six years since folks took their last trip to the kingdom of Arendelle. Since the first film came out, it has become a popular Broadway musical. The trailer teaser has been out since last February, so fans are ready for the new movie release. Disney does the best job of any movie company in getting folks excited about a new movie release, but they also do a great job of not disappointing their fans. Each movie is pulled off with the perfection that only Disney can provide.

All the major voice actors from the original film are slated to return.

That’s Idina Menzel as ice-shifting princess Elsa, Kristen Bell as her sister Anna, Jonathan Groff (Mindhunter) as Kristoff the iceman and Josh Gad as snowman Olaf. The premise of the new release is that three years after the events in the first film, Elsa starts to hear a strange sound. She along with Anna and Sven embark on a new journey beyond their native land of Arendelle.

Christmas trees from Sorghum Mill Lisa and I continued our tradition of pre-selecting our own Christmas tree this year at Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree & BlackBerry Farm. This locally owned and operated business is just simply the best place to get your

note that Sorghum Mill Tree Farm is where you want to start purchasing your Christmas tree here in Edmond.

It is “the” place to go. You get the best quality trees, freshness you won’t get anywhere else in town and the family will have fun going. Our kids are all grown but if we asked, they probably would go with us. We decided to make it just the two of us every year and save the big “ask” for another day.

Sorghum Mill is open weekdays 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please note that the fields close daily at 5 p.m. for your own protection since there are no lights in the area. Kick off the holiday season with a visit to Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree & Blackberry Farm in Edmond. With over 40,000 trees spread throughout seven fields, you're sure to find the perfect tree. It is located on Midwest Blvd, east of I35, between Sorghum Mill and Coffee Creek.

Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink opens November 15

Lisa Hibbard pre-selects the family Christmas tree at Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree Farm last weekend. She picked the “perfect” tree from the last lot in the last row.

Christmas tree. Between now and the day after Thanksgiving, you can preselect, mark and pay for your tree but leave it in the ground until you are ready to harvest the tree. It is a tradition that we have come to love doing.

You can harvest your own Virginia Pine, White Pine, Scotch Pine, Blue Ice, Carolina Sapphire, Leyland Cypress or Austrian Pine. It is an incredible variety. You can also get a pre-harvested Noble Fir, Douglas Fir, Grand Fir, Fraser Fir or Nordman Fir. If that isn’t enough, they have live Christmas Trees that include White Pine, Scotch Pine, Loblolly Pine, Austrian Pine, Colorado Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, Fat Albert, Deadora Cedar, or Blue Atlas Cedar.

I can’t promise all these variety are still available this year, but I think you get the point. You will not find these kinds of varieties or options in your average box store lot. Besides all the choices of trees, Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree Farm is fun. You won’t find a nicer group of people that are ready to help you. They hire an army of young people that have been taught service is the main product sold at the farm. I promise that you will enjoy your encounter with these folks.

Mixed into the group is an occasional “old guy” like me to make sure the young folks are doing their job. It really is enjoyable to see these younger folks learning skills that will serve them well as they go through life. These young folks seem to really enjoy their work outside and getting to know the customers. It isn’t all sizzle with no steak folks. I have no trouble getting on my knees to cut the tree. It is the getting back up part that causes some issues, so they are happy to cut the tree down for you.

Of course, be sure and pose for a picture with a saw in your hands like we did so it looks like you really did cut the tree yourself. However, the process doesn’t stop there. Once the tree is hauled back up to the loading area, they put it on a shaker that shakes all the loose needles out of your prize tree. They drill it for the stand, wrap the tree and tie it onto your car roof for you. It is all done with military precision and efficiency.

If the farm is crowded, it may take a few minutes for all that to happen but not to worry. They offer free apple cider, hot chocolate and cookies to keep you busy. You can also pick up a bag for your tree and other products.

If you are new to Edmond, make a

Enjoy holiday ice skating in Mitch Park at the Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink. Glide around the 117ft. x 56ft. under clear, starlit skies. Experience fresh air, laughter and shouts of holiday glee with friends and family at the Edmond Ice Rink. The largest metropolitan area ice rink offers free adjacent parking, open sessions, concessions, safety helmets, WIFI and indoor restrooms. Curling, hockey and figure skating are also available.

Moving the annual Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink to Mitch Park was a great idea that has worked well for both the city and skaters. I have to say that I do miss it being right behind our offices. It was a pleasure each evening to stop and see all the skaters on the ice whileheading to my car to go home. No, I was never tempted to put the skates on myself, but I do believe this feature in Edmond has been a blessing.

A giant thank you to those who run the ice rink and certainly to our City of Edmond officials who support the event each year. Even if skating isn’t your thing, folks can take a ride on the Christmas Express. It is the Christmas train ride that they have in Mitch Park near the ice-skating rink.

For more information you can go to www.edmondicerink.com. Edmond Life & Leisure is proud to be a sponsor of this fantastic holiday feature in Edmond.

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

Check out what’s inside! n n n n n n n n n

Weekend calendar of events ........................................................Page 8.

Questions raised about foreign aid ............................................Page 10.

Great Smokeout event nears ......................................................Page 11.

UCO honored for biking ............................................................Page 13.

George Gust reviews ‘Midway’ film ............................................Page 15.

Crossword ..................................................................................Page 15.

Information on lung cancer ........................................................Page 18.

Business news ............................................................................Page 22.

Worship directory ......................................................................Page 23.

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 April Burgess, Deanne York Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Account Executive Bryan Hallman bryan@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Dave Farris, Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, George Gust.

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design April Burgess Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2019 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 5

Active Green Beret & Medal of Honor winner

Governor hosts American hero Gov. Kevin Stitt last week hosted Medal of Honor (MOH) recipient Army Master Sgt. Matthew Williams at the Oklahoma Capitol. Williams’ visit with Governor Stitt marks his first official stop after receiving the Medal of Honor.

“It is an honor and privilege to welcome Medal of Honor recipient Master Sgt. Williams to our state,” said Governor Kevin Stitt. “Master Sgt. Williams selflessly braved enemy fire in order to successfully save the lives of his fellow comrades. His heroic actions, leadership and bravery are inspiring and we are so proud to thank him for continuing to faithfully serve our country.”

The Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery that can be awarded to members of America’s armed forces for exceptional acts of valor.

Williams was originally awarded the Silver Star for his heroic actions in 2008, and President Donald J. Trump upgraded his decoration to the Medal of Honor during a ceremony at the White House on October 30, 2019.

An active service Green Beret, Williams receives this award in recognition of his heroic actions while on mission in the Shok Valley of Nuristan Province in Afghanistan on April 6, 2008. Williams helped evacuate four of his wounded teammates from the mountains of Shok Valley as the unit took fire from insurgents.

A 3rd Special Forces Group operations sergeant, Williams graduated from Angelo State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Driven to serve, Williams enlisted into the Army under the 18X Special Forces enlistment program in September 2005.

After completing Infantry One Station Unit Training, Williams attended Basic Airborne Training at

PHOTO PROVIDED

Gov. Kevin Stitt visits last week with Army Master Sgt. Matthew Williams at the State Capitol. It was Oct. 30 when President Trump awarded the Green Beret the Medal of Honor.

Fort Benning, Georgia. He then went through the Special Forces assessment and selection process in 2006 and was accepted into the program.

In 2007, Williams graduated as a weapons sergeant from the Special Forces Qualification Course and was assigned to Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne).

Throughout his career, Williams deployed multiple times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Juniper Shield serving in numerous positions, including weapons sergeant, Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd SFG (A); senior weapons sergeant, Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd SFG (A); senior

Filing period set to start for School Board seat Individuals interested in running as a candidate for Seat No. 5 on the Edmond Board of Education may file from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2- 4 at the Oklahoma County Election Board located at 4201 N. Lincoln Boulevard. The primary election will be held Feb. 11 with the general election to be held April 7.

Edmond’s school board consists of five members, one from each election district, who serve a five-year term with one member’s term expiring each year. Current school board members are Lee Ann Kuhlman, Seat No. 1, Kathleen Duncan, Seat No. 2, Jamie Underwood, Seat No. 3, Cynthia Benson, Seat No. 4 and Meredith Exline, Seat No. 5. Exline’s term is expiring.

To be eligible to be a member of the Board of Education a candidate must live in the district, be a registered voter in the district, have a high school diploma or equivalency and not be employed by the district or have immediate family members employed by the district. The boundaries for Seat No. 5 can be found by going to www.edmondschools.net.

The Edmond school board typically meets on the first Monday of each month.

The board concentrates its time on policy-making to serve students and staff, hiring and evaluating the superintendent, and collaborating with the superintendent to identify methods for improving district programs, procedures and operations.

EPS mourns teacher them to pursue a caRuth Zumwalt, scireer in science.” ence content specialist Zumwalt was hired for Edmond Public in 2001 as a science Schools and former sciteacher at Edmond ence teacher at EdNorth High School. In mond North High 2018, she began servSchool from 2001ing as the district’s sci2017, passed away unence content specialist. expectedly Monday, Social Studies conNov. 4. She was 48 tent specialist Liz years old.

Rogers worked along“We are deeply sadside Zumwalt at both dened by Ruth’s sudthe district office and den passing,” said at Edmond North High Associate SuperintendRuth Zumwalt School. ent Angela Grunewald, “Ruth and I worked together on Ed.D. “She was a joy to work with. several committees. She always She was willing to take on any task brought energy and excitement to and her compassion for others was any project or task,” said Rogers. always evident in her actions.”

Colleagues and students say one of “She was always a great listener and gave excellent advice no matter how the things they loved most about Ruth was her ability to make any con- big or small. She never turned you away.” versation into a science lesson.

Funeral arrangements for Zumwalt “Ruth was a favorite of students,” said Superintendent Bret Towne. “She are pending.

She is survived by her husband, brought science to life for them and Randy Zumwalt. many credit her with motivating

weapons sergeant, Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd SFG (A); senior instructor/writer Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Warfare Training Group; senior weapons sergeant, Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd SFG (A); and operations sergeant, Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd SFG (A).

Master Leader Course; Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape; Special Forces Qualification Course; the Defense Language Institute’s French Course; Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat Course; Special Forces Advanced Reconnaissance Target Exploitation Course; Basic instructor Training and Small Group Instructor Training.

Williams’ awards and decorations in-

clude the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal with Bronze Clasp and four Loops, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral “4,” Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with Numeral “3,” Valorous Unit Award, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, and Special Forces Tab. Williams resides in North Carolina with his wife and son.

Page 6 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Benefits of VA loans

By Kenneth Wohl, RCB Bank To all United States service members, veterans and spouses, thank you for your service and sacrifice to our nation.

If you are preparWohl ing to buy or refinance a home, take a look at your VA Loan option, which offers lower out-ofpocket financing than traditional lending options. Here are five benefits of VA Loans.

No.1. 100% Financing - The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) guarantees this loan, allowing you to finance the entire purchase price of the home. Nearly all conventional and FHA loans require the loan-to-value to be below 100%.

No. 2. No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Costs – Most loans with less than a 20% down payment require you to pay for a mortgage insurance premium (for FHA loans) and private mortgage insurance, commonly referred to as PMI, for conventional loans.

While there is no monthly mortgage insurance, there is a one-time funding fee, which ranges from 1.5% 3.3%, based on your eligibility and down payment. You may also be exempt from the funding fee if you were awarded a service-related disability.

You are also able to roll your funding fee into the loan to help keep your out-of-pocket expenses lower at closing.

No. 3. More Flexible Underwriting Standards – A VA Loan is the only loan that does not require student loans deferred over one year to be included in the debt–to-income ratio, which is used by lenders to determine how much you can afford to borrow.

Also, a VA loan allows for higher debt ratios than other loans like FHA, conventional and rural development.

No. 4. You Can Have Two VA Home Loans at a Time – VA does

Mortgage Matters allow you to purchase another home if you are choosing to move prior to selling your current VA-financed home. It depends on how much entitlement you have left from the previous purchase and the loan limits in the area where you are buying your new home. Your mortgage lender can help you calculate your entitlement and qualification.

No.5. VA Jumbo Option Available – In most counties today, the maximum loan limit for conforming conventional and VA loans is $484,350.

However, there are certain counties where the VA maximum loan limit exceeds $484,350; these loans are known was VA Jumbo loans. These amounts are current as of the time of writing this article. Most Jumbo loans require 20% down payment; however, VA loans do not. Depending on your eligibility, you may be able to pay a 10% or less down payment.

You can learn more about eligibility requirements at www.benefits.va.gov.

Search VA home loans.

When it comes to obtaining a VA Loan, you want to work with a qualified VA mortgage lender. RCB Bank is proud to offer a VA loan benefit to our active duty service members and veterans. We can help you determine your eligibility and what you qualify for. Plus, once you start the loan process, we’re here to walk you through start to finish.

Feel free to call me, Kenneth Wohl, at 405-608-5291 or email kwohl@bankrcb.net.

Opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the author and meant for generic illustration purposes only. For specific questions regarding your personal lending needs, please call RCB Bank at 855-BANKRCB. With approved credit. Some restrictions apply. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC. RCB Bank NMLS #798151. Kenneth Wohl NMLS #453934.

Scene from upcoming operat ‘Lucia di Lammermoor’

OCU set to stage opera ‘Lucia di Lammermoor’ Oklahoma City University’s awardwinning Oklahoma Opera and Music Theater Company will present a haunting version of Gaetano Donizetti’s classic opera “Lucia di Lammermoor” Nov. 15 to 17.

Performances will be held at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with a 3 p.m. Sunday matinee on the university’s historic Kirkpatrick Auditorium stage, 2501 N. Backwelder. Tickets are $14 to $28 and are available online at okcu.edu/tickets or by calling 405-208-5227.

The production, based on a tragic novel by Sir Walter Scott set in the Scottish Highlands, features a cast of 28 singers and a 43-member orchestra.

Director Karen Coe Miller notes that the bel canto opera offers “a wrenching portrait of a desperate woman caught between warring clans and forced by her brother into an unwanted marriage, culminating in one of opera’s most powerful and provocative scenes.”

“Lucia di Lammermoor” made its debut at Naples’ Teatro San Carlo in 1835. Last season it was one of the top 20 most-performed operas in the world, with 48 productions across the globe. OCU’s version will be performed in Italian, with English supertitles.

A free director’s talk will be held 45 minutes before each performance.

Miller noted, “Lucia is trapped in a world dominated by men. She is sold

in marriage by her brother and ultimately betrayed by her lover. Unfortunately, the abuse of power against women resonates through the ages to the present day. Does Lucia go mad, or is she fighting back in the only way she can?”

Music professor Jan McDaniel will conduct the Oklahoma Opera and Music Theater Company Orchestra.

The production features scenic design by professor Jason Foreman and prop design by professor Lawrence Heyman. Lighting design is by Megan Fouts and original costumes are by Reagan Williams, both of the School of Theatre’s Design and Production program.

OCU’s Oklahoma Opera and Music Theater Company, the nation’s longest-running collegiate-based opera and music theater troupe, has won seven National Opera Association Production Awards in the past six years. The school was named to Playbill's 2018-19 and 2019-20 lists of Top 10 collegiate training grounds for Broadway performers.

The ensemble’s 68th season continues with Johann Strauss II’s “Die Fledermaus,” performed in English on the Kirkpatrick stage, Feb. 21-23; Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” in Burg Theatre, Feb. 28March 1; and Eric Idle’s “Spamalot” in Kirkpatrick, April 24-26.

For details on additional performances at the Bass School of Music, visit okcu.edu/music/performances.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 7

High school and OC College students at the Fall Band Concert last week.

OC & prep musicians have concert

Scott Filleman directs the Fall Band Concert.

Oklahoma Christian University debuted a new aspect of its annual Fall Band Concert. Local high school students played alongside OC students in the free performance. The concert was the first of its kind for OC, and among only a few concerts of its kind in the state to feature both college and high school students together in Judd Theater.

The idea for this concert came to Scott Filleman, assistant professor of music and director of instrumental ensembles at OC, when he realized most high school students he talked to did not believe they were qualified to play at the collegiate level.

“Many of those students do not believe they are ‘good enough’ to play in college, no matter how good they really are,” Filleman said. “I have asked my students if they felt unqual-

ified to play before they started here are, and so many raised their hands.

I found this to be a problem and sought to do something to help it.”

The musicians had two rehearsals to practice before the concert. There was no audition required; the only requirement was to register and practice.

The community has had a positive response. When Filleman was planning this event, his goal was 10 participants from local schools.

Registration closed on Oct. 29, and the number of participants was more than 30. Students from the following high schools attended: Chandler, Deer Creek, Edmond Memorial, Edmond North, Edmond Santa Fe, Luther, Oklahoma Christian Academy, Oklahoma Homeschool Bands, Tuttle and Wellston.

Page 8 • November 7, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

What’s Happening This Weekend Nov. 14-17 Thursday, Nov. 14 ---- In the Gallery ---- Scorpions and Petticoats: A Living History Program ---- 1940s Radio Comedy Theater ---- Keeper of the Lost Cities: Legacy Edmond Tour Stop ---- AQHA World Championship Show ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Civic Center Music Hall presents: A Doll’s House, Part 2 ---- Downtown in December ---- OKC Broadway presents: The Spongebob Musical ---- The Chainsmokers in Concert Friday, Nov. 15 ---- In the Gallery ---- Scorpions and Petticoats: A Living History Program ---- Opening Day at the Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink ---- Jim Gaffigan ---- Oklahoma Heritage Concert ---- AQHA World Championship Show ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Civic Center Music Hall presents: A Doll’s House, Part 2 ---- Downtown in December ---- OKC Broadway presents: The Spongebob Musical Saturday, Nov. 16 ---- In the Gallery ---- Scorpions and Petticoats: A Living History Program ---- Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink ---- Edmond International Festival 2019 ---- Miss Native American UCO ---- Shawna Russell ---- Hearth Basket Workshop ---- AQHA World Championship Show ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Civic Center Music Hall presents: A Doll’s House, Part 2 ---- Downtown in December ---- OKC Broadway presents: The Spongebob Musical ---- Repticon Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Sunday, Nov. 17 ---- In the Gallery ---- Scorpions and Petticoats: A Living History Program ---- Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink ---- AQHA World Championship Show ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Civic Center Music Hall presents: A Doll’s House, Part 2 ---- Downtown in December ---- Repticon Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Extra Information on Weekend Happenings In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring works by Sandy Springer; beginning Nov 1, featuring works by Behnaz Sohrabian; for information go to: http://www.edmondfinearts.com Scorpions and Petticoats: A Living History Program Location: 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse Extra Info: Free; 6 – 7 p.m.; for more information find them on Facebook 1940s Radio Comedy Theater Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: $10 adult; 6:30 p.m.; for more information visit edmondhistory.org

Keeper of the Lost Cities: Legacy Edmond Tour Stop Location: Central Middle School Extra Info: $25; 7-8:30 p.m.; for more information visit bestofbooksok.com Opening Day at the Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: 3 – 10 p.m.; for more information find them on Facebook Edmond International Festival 2019 Location: Festival Market Place & Plaza Extra Info: Free; 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; for more information visit them on Facebook Miss Native American UCO Location: University of Central Oklahoma Extra Info: 7 p.m.; for more information go to sites.uco.edu Jim Gaffigan Location: Showplace Theatre, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 7 p.m. & 10 p.m.; for more information go to riverwind.com Oklahoma Heritage Concert Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.; for more information go to nationalcowboymuseum.org Hearth Basket Workshop Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; for more information go to nationalcowboymuseum.org Shawna Russell Location: River Lounge, Riverwind Casino Extra Info: 9 p.m.; for more information go to riverwind.com AQHA World Championship Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: for more information go to aqha.com Devon Ice Rink Location: 113 S Robinson Ave, OKC Extra Info: for more information visit downtowndecember.com Civic Center Music Hall presents: A Doll’s House, Part 2 Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for more information visit okcciviccenter.com OKC Broadway presents: The Spongebob Musical Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: for more information visit okcphil.org Downtown in December Location: Downtown OKC Extra Info: for more information visit downtownindecember.com The Chainsmokers in Concert Location: Chesapeake Energy Arena Extra Info: for more information visit chesapeakearena.com Repticon Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: for more information go to repticon.com Send calendar items to Melinda@edmondpaper.com

New law affects school buses A bill allowing law enforcement to use cameras on school buses to track down drivers who illegally pass stopped buses went into effect Friday, Nov. 1.

House Bill 1926, by Rep. Dell Kerbs (R-Shawnee) and Sen. Ron Sharp (RShawnee) requires a minimum ticket of $100 for drivers who break this law.

The law also requires 75 percent of tickets for this violation be deposited into the newly created Cameras for School Bus Stops Revolving Fund, a grant that schools without video surveillance on

buses can apply for in order to purchase the equipment.

“Drivers passing stopped school buses endanger the lives of children loading onto or unloading the bus,” said Kerbs, a former school bus driver.

“This is a very serious problem, but unfortunately it’s difficult for our officers to enforce this law. “ According to the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services, nearly 84,000 drivers ignore a bus’ stop arm every day.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 9

GOP Women’s Club meeting Nov. 18 The Edmond Republican Womens Club will meet at Johnnies Charbroil on 33rd St. in Edmond on Monday, Nov. 18, beginning at 11:30 a.m. with check-in and those wishing to order lunch. The official meeting will begin at noon.

PHOTO PROVIDED

The University of Central Oklahoma ranks No. 8 in the U.S. on The Military Times' ‘Best for Vets: Colleges 2020’ list. Pictured, is UCO ROTC member Derrick M. Gillis serving as a flag bearer for the university’s 9/11 remembrance event in September.

List again sees UCO ranked as ‘Best for Vets: Colleges 2020’ The University of Central Oklahoma again earned recognition as a top school for student veterans and active military, as The Military Times announced Central as No. 8 out of 134 surveyed four-year colleges and universities in the U.S. on its “Best for Vets: Colleges 2020” list.

Central jumped up one spot on the list, as The Military Times recognized UCO for its dedication to veterans for the fifth consecutive year.

UCO offers resources for student veterans through the Veterans Higher Education Resources and Opportunity Center (VetHERO). These resources aid student veterans with their academic, financial, physical and social needs.

In an effort to enhance the university’s existing veteran outreach, Central created two programs: the Veterans Upward Bound program serving pre-college veterans and the Student Support Services Serving America’s Leaders Using Transforma-

tive Education (SALUTE) program serving Central’s veterans who are first-generation college students. Both programs are federally funded via U.S. Department of Education grants.

These programs are designed to encourage and assist veterans in successful admissions to and completion of postsecondary education via academic coaching, peer, faculty and community mentoring, and financial literacy.

“We very much appreciate the campus-wide support for creating innovative collaboration networks, like the VetHERO Center, to ease the military to civilian transition for our student veterans,” said Victoria Arnold Harrel, Ed.D., executive director of TRIO Student Services at Central.

To view the complete “Best for Vets: Colleges 2020” rankings, visit rebootcamp.militarytimes.com.

For more information about Veteran Support Services at Central, visit www.uco.edu/veterans.

This month the group will get to hear from Joe Hight of Best of Books as the guest speaker.

Prior to his association with Best of Books, Hight was long time journalist working several years with The Oklahoman.

Page 10 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

A look at foreign aid Dems & economic plans The recent controversy over foreign aid to Ukraine has me curious about the overall program.

One figure I saw, was that the United States annually gives more than $50 billion. Why? Steve Gust I'm sure there's a good reason. For military equipment I heard that it gives us a chance to sell replacement parts and monitor what other nations are doing with their weapons of war.

A lot of times the aid is humanitarian and I have no problem with that at all. Feeding people is a great endeavor.

I'm not sure if foreign aid was meant to be used the way former vice president Joe Biden used it.

Since network anchors Norah O'Donnell and Lester Holt won't show the clip on television, here's what Biden said.

"I said we were not going to give them (Ukrainians) the $1 billion. They said you have no authority. 'You are not the president. The president said' …. I said call him," Biden said. "I'm telling you, you are not getting $1 billion. I said you're not getting $1 billion

and I am going to be leaving here in six hours and if the prosecutor is not fired, you are not getting the money.

Well, son of a b---- … he got fired."

Now the official media spin on this is that many people wanted the guy fired and Biden really did nothing wrong. I don't agree with that, but that's the party line. You can bet every last cent you have the liberals wouldn't have been so forgiving of Trump.

I've also heard that the U.S. Senate, under GOP control, isn't all that anxious for an investigation of this. Makes me wonder if more folks, other than just Biden, are working out special deals with foreign aid.

But I also heard that a few of the Democrat candidates for president are asking Israel for land concessions or they will oppose foreign aid for our ally in the Mideast.

Is that proper? It could be. There has to be some kind of a limit to a nation's behavior. I can't see Franklin Roosevelt giving Japan foreign aid on Dec. 8, 1941.

To claim we don't use foreign aid to influence the policy of another nation is probably naive. But what is wrong is someone is profiting from it.

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

By The Oklahoman Editorial Board Those seeking the Democratic nomination for president have an interesting economic pitch: Our proposals could put you out of work!

Many of those in the large field of candidates have embraced the idea of ending U.S. reliance on fossil fuels in the next few decades. Never mind that petroleum, coal and natural gas accounted for roughly four-fifths of U.S. energy consumption last year, making such a swift transition impossible.

According to the 2018 U.S. Energy and Regulatory Report, traditional energy and energy efficiency sectors employed roughly 6.5 million Americans in 2018.

Many would wind up out of work under Democratic policies, although some candidates say they would pay to send

those folks back to school or train them for renewable-energy jobs.

A $15-per-hour minimum wage is another must-have for most of the candidates. A report by the Congressional Budget Office found that a $15 minimum wage could help 17 million workers, a fact the candidates like to tout.

They’re not as quick to mention that the CBO also said the move could result in 3 million or more workers losing their jobs. When the Democratic-controlled U.S. House approved such a bill this year, Rep. Kendra Horn, D-Oklahoma City, voted against it, to her credit, noting that the mandate could put many Oklahoma businesses out of business.

Earlier this month, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who is closing in on front-runner Joe Biden in the Re-

alClearPolitics average of national polls, and leads him in Iowa and New Hampshire, acknowledged that “Medicare for All” could mean job losses for 2 million Americans. During an interview on New Hampshire Public Radio, the interviewer referenced an assertion by University of Massachusetts economist Robert Pollin that Medicare for All would slash roughly 2 million jobs, mostly within the health care industry.

“I agree,” Warren said. “I think this is part of the cost issue and should be part of the cost plan.” She encouraged the interviewer to “recognize on this what we’re talking about, and that is in effect how much of our health care dollars have not gone to health care.”

Unlike Medicare for All’s leading advocate, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Warren has refused to acknowledge that paying for the plan would require tax increases on middle-class Americans.

She has insisted instead that costs will be borne by the ultra-wealthy, with the middle class ultimately seeing savings through lower insurance premiums.

Yet it’s largely the middle class that would feel the brunt of those 2 million job losses if they were to happen. Warren says displaced workers could move to other insurance areas, such as auto and life insurance, and she's promising five years of "transition support.”

These proposals may appeal to the party’s base, which is what the candidates are striving for at this stage of the campaign. But they are less likely to fly on Election Day 2020 with voters who like their jobs and wish to keep them.

Do Americans still oppose communism?

By Marion Smith This month marks the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. It’s a time to celebrate freedom’s victory over communist tyranny. It’s also the best time to ask: Do Americans still oppose communism?

We asked this question at the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation. A congressionally authorized nonprofit, we worked with YouGov in October to poll Americans’ views on the deadliest ideology in history.

Our findings demand attention. Better yet, they deserve action from lawmakers.

Communism is soaring in popularity. More than one in three millennials view communism favorably.

So does nearly 30% of Generation Z. Millennials’ support for communism grew by nearly 10 percentage points over the past year.

More young Americans also view capitalism and communism as equally violent. Never mind that free enterprise has lifted billions of people from poverty to prosperity, while communism has a track record of misery and murder. In the 20th century alone, communism killed at least 100 million people.

Young Americans simply don’t understand the

communist threat. In fact, while communism is gaining approval in America, it’s gaining ground globally — and it’s more aggressive and oppressive than at any point since 1989.

Only 103 miles from America sits communist Cuba, now 60 years strong. Fidel Castro may be gone, but the regime he built still imprisons its opponents and denies freedom to the masses. Communist Cuba also props up the socialist dictatorship in Venezuela and the authoritarian regimes in Nicaragua and Bolivia.

Across the Pacific, North Korea is more communist concentration camp than country, tyrannizing twenty-five million people. Rather than help his starving, desperate subjects, the Kim regime steals money and smuggles resources to build a nuclear arsenal capable of threatening America and our allies.

And then, of course, there’s communist China.

Last month, China surpassed the Soviet Union as history’s longest-lived communist government, and Beijing is at least as tyrannical as Moscow ever was.

It has thrown as many as 3 million Muslim Uighurs into 21st-century gulags. It is also destroying Christian churches and stifling other faiths. Worst of all,

Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034, or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

China is using technology to build the world’s largest surveillance state. Its goal is to rid the Chinese people of their yearning for freedom.

Even as Beijing tries to remake mankind, it wants to remake the world in its authoritarian image.

Nowhere is this more evident than in China’s violent crackdown on freedom in Hong Kong. The protesters know this is their last stand, and that Beijing won’t stop unless the free world — including the United States — speaks up far more forcefully.

Silence only emboldens Beijing to extend its tyranny farther and faster. As the Communist Party recently showed by punishing the entire NBA for one employee’s statement of support for Hong Kong, Beijing now thinks it can frighten American companies into silence, as well.

Confronted with communist aggression, moral clarity is precisely what’s needed. This is where Oklahoma can step up. Our organization is urging state lawmakers and city leaders to designate an annual day of commemoration on Nov. 7. Three states have already established a “Victims of Communism Memorial Day.” Legislation to that effect is moving through the state legislature and deserves to be enacted.

As we mark this anniversary, Oklahoma should recognize the 100 million people killed by communism, and the 1.5 billion people who still live in its thrall. The Berlin Wall fell, but communism didn’t.

The sooner we acknowledge this, the sooner we can stop this evil ideology from capturing more American hearts. And by taking a stand against communism at home, we can once again weaken Communist Parties abroad.

On the 30th anniversary of this triumph of freedom, shouldn’t we recommit America to this noble goal?

Marion Smith is executive director of the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 11

Part of effort to quit tobacco

Smokeout scheduled for Nov. 21 Each year, millions of Americans participate in the Great American Smokeout by putting down their cigarettes and taking a step towards a healthier, smoke-free life. This year’s Smokeout on Nov. 21 is an opportunity for smokers to quit smoking, even if for one day.

Quitting even for a day is a challenge, which is why the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline offers free services to help tobacco users break their nicotine addictions.

The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline is funded by the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET).

“This is a life-changing event, and when you quit, you’re making one of the biggest decisions of your life,” said Debra Anderson of McAlester, a Helpline user. Oklahoma smokers can

benefit from the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline’s free services and tools both during the Smokeout and the rest of the year.

“Year after year, participants in the Great American Smokeout take the first step toward a healthier life, free of addiction to nicotine,” said Julie Bisbee, TSET executive director. “Whether you’re thinking about quitting tobacco, currently quitting tobacco, or supporting loved ones in their quit journey, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline can provide free resources and support.”

The Helpline provides free services such as text and email support, calls with a Quit Coach, and free nicotine replacement therapy such as patches, gum or lozenges.

“I couldn’t have done it by myself,” said Shaun Pryor of Ed-

mond, a former tobacco user.

“The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline was instrumental in my success.”

Quit Coaches are available 24/7 to create customized Quit Plans for registrants. Ronnie Trentham of Stilwell, a former tobacco user, urges current users to sign up for the free services offered by the Helpline and not to be too stubborn to ask for help.

Trentham has survived seven bouts of cancer caused by tobacco use.

Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1800-784-8669) or visit OKhelpline.com to explore all the free services and resources available to Oklahomans. Connect with the Helpline through social media by liking the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline on Facebook or following @OKhelpline on Twitter and Instagram.

Edmond couple gladly volunteer at YMCA Military Welcome Center

Edmond’s Terry and Bonnie Ballantine

Terry and Bonnie Ballantine believe volunteering at the YMCA Military Welcome Center, located at Will Rogers World Airport, each week is a double blessing.

“You get to give, and you get back,” said Terry, a retired Air Force pilot and Desert Storm veteran.

Each Tuesday, the Edmond couple, who volunteer through the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Central Oklahoma, deliver meals for Edmond Mobile Meals in the morning and in the evening, along with other volunteers, many of whom are retired military, greet new recruits who fly into Will Rogers World Airport on their way to basic training.

“It’s a time to brief them on what to expect during basic training, to welcome and encourage them to make the most of the opportunity of being in the military,” Terry said. “It will be challenging, but whatever you do in the military, you can take with you into your civilian life and you can stand a little taller because of the service to your country.”

After the briefing, about three busloads of Soldiers head to Fort Sill for 10 weeks of basic training.

“Being a volunteer at the Military Welcome Center is invigorating. You get there and meet young men and women who are putting their lives on the line. This is an elite group of people--among the less than one percent of people their age who volunteer to serve their country. It makes you proud, and gives you hope for the future,” Terry said.

To learn more about volunteering with RSVP of Central Oklahoma, call Laura McPheeters at 405-605-3110 or email lmcpheeters@rsvpokc.org.

Since 1973, RSVP of Central Oklahoma has helped senior adults continue to live with purpose and meaning by connecting them with rewarding community volunteer opportunities, including RSVP’s Provide-A-Ride Senior Transportation Program. RSVP is a partner of Senior Corps and the United Way of Central Oklahoma. To learn more about becoming a volunteer, call Laura McPheeters at 405.605.3110 or visit rsvpokc.org. You can also follow RSVP on Facebook at facebook.com/RSVPokc.

Page 12 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Can genealogy and spirituality be compatible?

Offering a different spin on the way we currently view genealogy, the Edmond Genealogical Society’s Monday, Nov. 18 program “Can Genealogy and Spirituality be Compatible?” will be presented by Belinda Ruffel.

Ms. Ruffel believes there is a current conflict, at least in this country, where voices are arguing that science and spirituality are incompatible. Some people believe a person is either going to approach questions from a purely scientific perspective, or a purely spiritual perspective and that the two are locked into “eterRuffel nal combat“.

However, as we have come into newer understandings on an atomic level, we have developed Quantum physics. Through Quantum physics, we have become familiar with newer microscopic fields, atomic & molecular behaviors, and the newer fields of Epigenetics and Metagenetics, that explain how matter is actually influenced by energy and vibration.

Over the years Belinda Ruffel has had the opportunity to study many world religions. She has been fascinated to observe many similarities in the way the different religions view their ancestors, hereditary personality and attitudinal perspectives. Come join us as she shares ancient wisdom and guides us through a holistic view of genealogy.

Ms. Ruffel graduated from Marymount College/Parsons School of Design in New York City, NY and currently studies at Robbins-Madanes Center for Strategic Intervention. She resides in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Edmond Genealogical Society meetings are held the third Monday of the month at the Edmond Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1315 E. 33rd Street, Edmond.

Meetings are free and open to the public, beginning with a social time at 6:15 p.m. Programs start promptly at 6:30 p.m. Enter through the doors at the rear (north side) of the building. The church offers plenty of parking and is fully handicap accessible.

For more information on EGS, go to: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/`okegs/. Next month’s program will be “History and Fiction … The Blend” presented by vehoae-Shirl Yancey.

Pictured from left, are, Dr. R. William Worden, D.O., M.ED. Medical Director of Oklahoma ER and Hospital with Tyler and Maliki presented Newcomers’ educational for November.

Medical officials teach club trauma care The Oklahoma ER Hospital is teaching the community life-saving lessons entitled “Active Shooter Events” and “Stop the Bleed.”

During a short training course, participants learn from professionals about treating injuries following traumatic events. Bleeding is the leading cause of preventable death in a trauma situation. These courses teach what civilians can do to

delay and prevent casualties. What citizens do matters in the workplace, the community, anywhere.

Two simple steps can help in survival — know your surroundings and have a plan. The course is designed to provide civilians with knowledge that will empower and instill confidence for the ability to survive by all ages and abilities.

Oklahoma ER Hospital medical officials together with members of the Edmond Newcomers Club.

The club learned many special life-saving lessons.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 13

PHOTO PROVIDED

The League of American Bicyclists recognized the University of Central Oklahoma as a Bicycle Friendly University, acknowledging Central’s outstanding efforts in creating an exceptional environment for biking. Pictured here, three students ride bikes on UCO’s campus.

UCO said to offer a bike friendly campus The University of Central Oklahoma has been designated a Bicycle-Friendly University at the bronze level by the League of American Bicyclists, acknowledging Central’s outstanding efforts in creating an exceptional environment for biking.

Central is one of 208 institutions recognized by the organization in 47 states and Washington, D.C.

“This is the first time UCO has been awarded the bronze level Bicycle Friendly University award,” said Jennifer Redwine, interim director for Central’s Transportation and Parking Services.

“We are very excited UCO has received this recognition and we are dedicated to continue providing and promoting alternative transportation on campus.”

Central encourages bicycling by providing amenities such as free-to-use bicycle repair stations, free bicycle registration for personal bikes and the BumA-Bike program, which allows the Central community to “bum” a bike free of charge from the university.

For more information about Central’s bicycle services, visit www.uco.edu/parking.

Page 14 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 15

Review of the big screen’s ‘Midway’

Not a classic war film but still satisfying

By George Gust "Midway" centers on the Battle of Midway, a clash between the American fleet and the Imperial Japanese Navy which marked a pivotal turning point in the Pacific Theater during WWII. The film, based on the real-life events of this heroic feat, tells the story of the leaders and soldiers who used their instincts, fortitude and bravery to overcome the odds.

"Midway" comes to us over this past Veterans Day weekend via prolific disaster movie director Roland Emmerich ("Independence Day," "The Day After Tomorrow," and "2012"). If you're familiar with Mr. Emmerich's oeuvre you know that he doesn't settle for half measures in terms of spectacle or cast size but where he goes overboard with special effects the emotional resonance of these disaster films are mostly lacking.

"Midway" falls in line with the other large-scale disaster films of Emmerich's catalogue, featuring over the top action, patriotic rhetoric and cheesy dialogue.

"Midway" features a tremendous cast of character actors you've seen for years and recognizable younger actors, featuring square-jawed older men like Dennis Quaid, Woody Harrelson and Aaron

Eckhart and younger British actors attempting to sound American, Luke Evans and Ed Skrein. Which Skrein takes up the majority of the film's perfunctory emotional plot, but his less than convincing New Jersey accent made it hard to connect with his character when the story needs you to.

And the immensely talented cast is subjected to delivering the sometimes cringe inducing dialogue, but when your view "Midway" for what it truly is a big popcorn war film the cheesy dialogue won't bother you as much.

The real-life story of "Midway" is a fascinating one and showcases the brave service members who were able to rise to the occasion during an

unprecedented war time. This 2019 film version of this pivotal WWII battle hits on all the major action beats you'd want to see in terms of battle and features just the right amount of patriotic fervor for you Veterans Day weekend.

However, if you come into "Midway" expecting an intense realistic re-telling of a historic battle, like that of "Saving Private Ryan" or "Dunkirk" you're going to be disappointed, but there are enough scenes of over-the-top war action and a couple of tense sequences to make "Midway" an enjoyable, satisfying throwback war movie, albeit lacking in emotional resonance or memorable characters.

“Midway” is rated PG-13 for sequences of war violence and related images, language and smoking.

2.8 out of 5 stars

PHOTO PROVIDED

Ed Skrein, right, stars in the over-the-top Roland Emmerich directed ‘Midway,’ a re-telling of the pivotal World War II battle.

Radio comedy theater The Edmond Historical Society and Museum presents 1940s Radio Comedy Theater: The Charleston on Nov. 14 at 6:30-7:15 p.m.

Step back in time to enjoy a live performance of the popular radio comedy show, The Life of Riley. During this light-hearted episode, Chester A. Riley plans to surprise his wife by learning how to dance the Charleston, but confusion ensues when his teenagers discover him two-stepping with another woman during his lessons.

During intermission, you will be treated to a live performance of the Charleston dance by a local Edmond couple, Eric and Erin Janzen.

The Charleston dance was made popular in 1923 by jazz musician, James. P. Johnson. The Charleston is presented in conjunction with the museum exhibit, 1920s Edmond: Ain’t We Got Fun, on display through January 31, 2020.

Doors open 30 minutes before the show to allow time to view the exhibit. The show is suitable for children.

Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for children ($1 off for members). Purchase tickets at www.edmondhistory.org. The show will be performed at the museum, located at 431 S. Boulevard, Edmond.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: THANKSGIVING ACROSS 1. Slick grp.?

5. Mountain basin 8. Bygone bird of New Zealand 11. Relating to armpit 12. Pestilence pest 13. End a mission 15. Ancient Greece assembly site, pl.

16. What little kittens did with their mittens 17. *Thanksgiving Cranberry concoction 18. *Site of the "First Thanksgiving" 20. "Guilty," e.g.

21. Kiln, pl.

22. ____ Aviv 23. *Give what?

26. Strangling tool 30. Jul. follower 31. Pupil protector 34. Loads from lodes 35. Shows off 37. Part of human cage 38. Source of indigo dye, pl.

39. Laughing on the inside 40. Truly 42. Highest or lowest card 43. Nemo's home plant 45. *U.S. President's magnanimous gesture 47. Say "no" 48. Plural of carpus 50. Tom Jones's "____ a Lady" 52. *First settlers 55. ____ con Carne or ____ Verde 56. Fe 57. Off-color 59. Popular jeans brand 60. Attentiongetting sound 61. Peter, Paul and Mary, e.g.

62. Elvis' "____ Now or Never" 63. ____ someone off 64. Do like goo

DOWN 1. Lout 2. Alka-Seltzer sound 3. James ____ Jones 4. Colored wax stick 5. VIP's influence 6. Compass point, pl.

7. The Count's favorite subject 8. Wry face 9. Black and white mammal 10. *What Thanksgiving celebrant did?

12. Excessively showy, slang 13. Turkish monetary unit 14. *Macy's parade flyer 19. "Haste ____ waste" 22. Little bit 23. ____ PeriÛdica 24. Connected to Lake Michigan 25. September stone 26. Hurtful remark 27. Synonym to #61 Across 28. Telephone company 29. City in Germany

32. Marine eagle 33. Jack-in-the-box part 36. *First Thanksgiving parade (Philadelphia) sponsor 38. What Darwin says we do 40. "No room in the ____ for the travelers weary..."

41. Print from a smartphone 44. Desert mirage 46. ____ Bridge in Venice 48. The ____ of the Bambino 49. What phoenix did 50. Bolted 51. Hurries 52. Hearts and diamonds 53. Claudius' heir and successor 54. British slang for swindle 55. Computer-generated imagery, acr.

58. Anonymous John

See Answers Page 23

Answers Page 23

Page 16 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

President’s Cup stays with Bronchos

UCO hangs 82 on opponent The University of Central Oklahoma football team set a handful of records in an 82-14 win over Northeastern State Saturday afternoon. The Bronchos with the win retained The President’s Cup for the sixth consecutive season.

Central Oklahoma improved to 5-5 with the win.

“I’m happy for that senior group to have a win in their last home game and get to keep the cup,” UCO head football coach Nick Bobeck said.

“That group has never lost the cup and that’s a big deal, that’s hard to do, and it’s really good to send them out with the win.”

UCO’s 82 points Saturday are the most in a game by the Bronchos since 1922, when Central scored 118 against the former Carver College. It’s also a new Wantland Stadium record.

The 68-point margin of victory is also a record in the stadium Central has called home in 1965.

UCO got off to a good start and never let up Saturday. After forcing a three & out on the first defensive effort of the game, UCO kicked a field goal to open the scoring on its first offensive effort. The Bronchos forced another three & out, then went petal

Sports

PHOTO PROVIDED

UCO celebrates keeping The President’s Cup after its 82-14 win.

to the metal for the next two and a half hours.

UCO scored touchdowns on the next three possessions to go up 24-0 before the end of the first quarter.

Dustin Basks caught a 19-yard touchdown pass from Brandon George with 8:15 to go. George ran it in himself from eight yards out with 1:51 to go. Then Drequan Brown sacked the NSU quarterback, forced a fumble, picked it up and scored with five seconds left. That made it 24-0 at the end of the first quarter.

Northeastern got the first of its two touchdowns finally after grabbing an interception at the UCO goal line.

The Riverhawks went 63 yards on four plays to make it 24-7 with 10:31 to play in the second.

UCO wouldn’t be deterred.

Josh Moore caught a 49-yard touchdown pass from George. Isaiah Feaster scored a safety on the next play from scrimmage. And after getting the ball back, Taj Griffin capped a 6-play, 64-yard scoring drive with a 2-yard touchdown run. That made it

40-7 with 4:30 to play in the first half. NSU added its second touchdown with 49 seconds left in the quarter to make it 40-14 at halftime.

Central then came out of the locker room and had its best quarter of the afternoon in the third.

Brandon George hit Dawson Huddleston for a 12-yard to cap off an 8play, 75-yard scoring drive. Kolby Underwood then grabbed an interception two plays later and returned it 27 yards for a score. T.J. Roberts followed those with three consecutive rushing touchdowns of 18, one, and two yards. The latter, with 55 seconds to play in the third, gave Central a 75-14 lead.

Saboor Daniels added a 1-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to put the final tally on the scoreboard.

George, making his Broncho debut, led UCO with 119 yards rushing and one touchdown.

The Bronchos, now 5-5 on the season, will head to Emporia State for the final game of the 2019 regular season next Saturday. Kickoff in Emporia, Kan. is scheduled for 2 p.m.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Gregory J. Slavonic, right, talks with Lt. Cmdr. Alexey Diaz, aircraft handling officer of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), during a ship tour.

Slavonic is responsible for the overall supervision and oversight of manpower and reserve component affairs of Department of the Navy.

Slavonic reviews naval destroyer in San Diego

By Alex Millar U.S. Navy SAN DIEGO – Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs (ASN M&RA) Gregory J. Slavonic, from Edmond, visited the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22) at Naval Base San Diego, Oct. 30, to meet the ships’ leadership and talk to the crews.

Slavonic is the 18th ASN M&RA, and retired from the U.S. Navy as rear admiral after 34 years of service.

“My favorite part of my job is the opportunity to get out of Washington D.C. and go visit with Sailors and Marines on the waterfront,” said Slavonic. “Talking to the Sailors and chiefs today reminded me why the U.S. Navy is the greatest fighting force in the world.”

While aboard Stockdale and San Diego, he asked the ships’ leadership and Sailors what they think could be improved throughout the fleet.

“He is focused on diversity and resiliency of the crew, and I believe him when he asks how can D.C help,” said Capt. Amy N. Bauernschmidt, USS San Diego’s commanding officer.

“He will be able to enact new policies and changes in order to make the Navy a better place for all Sailors.”

The ASN for M&RA acts on manpower and personnel policy matters within the Department of the Navy.

This includes issues affecting active duty, reserve and retired Sailors, Marines and family members, as well as Department of the Navy civilians and contractors.

“It is a high honor to have somebody on his level visit us,” said Lt. Cesar Valenzuela, the supply officer aboard San Diego. “Seeing the ASN M&RA come to our ship generates a great deal of pride for the crew and motivates us to be the best on the waterfront.”

For more information from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/, www.dvidshub.net/unit/COMNAVSURFPAC, and www.public.navy.mil/surfor/Pages/h ome.aspx.

Also join the conversation on social media at www.facebook.com/SurfaceWarriors/, www.twitter.com/surfacewarriors, www.instagram.com/surface_warriors/, and www.linkedin.com/company/surfacewarriors/.

Millar is a Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Commander with the Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 17

PHOTO PROVIDED

The University of Central Oklahoma will celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a series of events on Central’s campus. Pictured here, a performance during the 2018 Native American Heritage Month kickoff event.

American Indian heritage being celebrated at UCO The University of Central Oklahoma will celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a series of events on Central’s campus.

The month of events started earlier this month with keynote speaker Rebecca Nagle at theNigh University Center (NUC), Ballroom A last week.

Nagle, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, is an award-winning advocate and writer focused on advancing Native rights and ending violence against Native women. She is the host of the podcast, “This Land” which focuses on treaty rights and tribal sovereignty in Oklahoma.

Nagle’s address focused on this year’s Native American Heritage Month theme, “Resiliency of Native People.”

Other Native American Heritage Month events include: n Diabetes Awareness and Cooking Class, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Nov. 14, NUC 201: Join the Native American Student Association (NASA) for a discussion on the diabetes epidemic within the Native American community and learn cheap and easy ways to eat healthier through simple and affordable recipes. n Miss Native American UCO, 7 p.m., Nov. 16, Constitution Hall, NUC: Miss Native American UCO is a time to honor and recognize Native American culture and to celebrate women for their academic achievement, community involvement, talent and knowledge of Native American heritage and current events.

n Mascots: How They Affect Native Identity, 6-7 p.m., Nov. 19, Mary Fallin Room, NUC 304: Join NASA and the UCO National Association for the Advancement of Colored People for a discussion regarding Native American mascots and how they affect those who identify as Native American. n Movie Showing: Te Ata, 6 p.m., Nov. 20, Liberal Arts South, Room L01: Te Ata is based on the inspiring, true story of Mary Thompson Fisher, a woman who traversed cultural barriers to become one of the greatest Native American performers of all time. The showing is sponsored by the Chickasaw Nation. n Native Fit Class, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Nov. 21, NUC 300: Join NASA for a lesson on self-defense. n Heroes of Heritage: Native American Heritage Month Speaker, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 25, Heritage Room, NUC 326: Sponsored by the UCO Veteran Higher Education Resource and Opportunity Center (VetHERO) and Central Veterans, the event will highlight a veteran who identifies with the Native American demographic. The speaker will share stories and unique experiences that will inspire the next generation of leaders.

All events are free and most are open to the public. For a complete schedule or more information about Native American Heritage Month at Central, visit www.uco.edu/nahm.

Eastern Star donates to OMRF The Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star presented the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation with a pair of checks totaling $40,770 at its annual conference in Guthrie In late October.

The donation continues the Eastern Star’s long history of generosity to OMRF, with gifts totaling $382,424 since it designated OMRF as its charitable beneficiary in 2002.

Previous gifts have funded research on cancer, lupus, heart disease, multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s. This year, Eastern Star officials designated $10,770 for neurological research. The remainder will be used to support research in cystic fibrosis and childhood diseases at the Oklahoma City-based

nonprofit research institute.

Eastern Star members support OMRF through individual donations made at chapter meetings and activities statewide, like golf tournaments, luncheons, auctions and marches, plus various donations made in memory of loved ones.

The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong and is dedicated to furthering charity, education, fraternity and science.

The donation was presented at the Scottish Rite Masonic Temple in Guthrie. The Eastern Star has approximately 8,000 members and more than 80 chapters in Oklahoma.

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.

Page 18 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

What you should know about deadly disease Lung cancer can affect anyone, not just those with a history of smoking. That’s the message the American Cancer Society is sending this month to the public and clinicians alike. November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and signs and symptoms of lung cancer should not be ignored based on a lack of a history of smoking. While tobacco use is the most important risk factor for lung cancer, about one in five lung cancers occurs in people who never smoked. If counted as a separate category, lung cancer among never-smokers would be among the ten leading causes of cancer death.

“If a patient has shown symptoms of lung cancer for several weeks, they should be evaluated for lung cancer regardless of whether or not they have smoked,” said David Lam, M.D., hematologist and oncologist for SSM Health Care Center/Frank C. Love Cancer Institute at St. Anthony Hospital.

“Thousands of people who have never smoked still develop lung cancer every year. If a person is showing symptoms, I would suggest they speak to their primary care physician to see if they qualify for screening.”

Associating lung cancer with smoking has produced stigma for far too many people, said Dr. Lam. No one -- neither someone who smokes nor someone who has never smoked -- should feel embarrassed at a cancer diagnosis or worse, experience a delay in diagnosis.

Early diagnosis and care, including testing to make sure patients get the best available treatment, can improve outcomes in lung cancer. If diagnosis and treatment are delayed because of stigma, bias, or due to the assumption lung cancer is rare in those who don’t smoke, patients could suffer as a result.

“We have made tremendous progress in how we treat lung cancer,” said Dr. Lam. “Today we can perform comprehensive diagnostic testing and custom-tailor treatments for many patients. People must get the care they need, and not allow stigma or a diagnostic delay to prevent their treatment.”

According to the American Cancer Society, most lung cancers do not cause any symptoms until they have spread, but some people with early lung cancer do have symptoms. If you go to your doctor when you first notice symptoms, your cancer might be diagnosed at an earlier stage, when treatment is more likely to be effective. The most common symptoms of lung cancer are: n A cough that does not go away or gets worse

n Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum (spit or phlegm) n Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing n Hoarseness n Weight loss and loss of appetite n Shortness of breath n Feeling tired or weak n Infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia that do not go away or keep coming back n New onset of wheezing “Many people who exhibit these symptoms do not have cancer,” said Dr. Lam. “But those who experience any of these for an extended period should talk to their physician and make sure the possibility of cancer is indeed considered and inves-

PHOTO PROVIDED

Anyone wanting to have fun this weekend, might want to consider attending the Luther Pecan Festival, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Luther Pecan Festival has art, music & food The third annual Luther Pecan Festival is Saturday, Nov. 16.

The event taking over the street's of this small town in Eastern Oklahoma County celebrates local artists, music, food, and one of Oklahoma's best specialty crops, pecans. Just a quarter of a mile off of Historic Route 66 east of Edmond, thousands are expected to the one-day event that runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Festival activities include a cookoff to find the best pecan pie, appetizer, sweet and savory pecan dish.

Winners in four categories will be announced at 1 pm from the stage followed by a live auction of the winners with proceeds to benefit the non-profit group, 4 Our Community.

Contestants should bring their entries and a $10 fee to Main St. Nutrition beginning from 10 am - 11 am.

For something fun, the festival will include a #gitup challenge on the stage at Noon, hosted by Opus Entertainment. Groups of friends, students, coworkers, teams and families are encouraged to fill the street and do the group dance together.

“Pecans were our hook when we dreamed about a festival to showcase our town and its artists, and from there it has bloomed into a beautiful example of a community working together to produce a fantastic event. The first year we ran out of pecans, the second year we ran out of pecan pie. You can bet that bakers are working overtime to get those pies in the oven to have enough to sell this year and more Oklahoma pecan growers have lined

up to sell their fresh pecans,” said Dawn Shelton, festival organizer and publisher of The Luther Register.

The family-friendly event is free to attend and will feature live music, pony rides and children's games, food trucks, and an eclectic holiday shopping experience that includes original art by more than 60 local artists, pop-up shops, handmade jewelry and accessories, Oklahoma wines, artisan foods and natural skin care products. Local authors will also showcase their books.

Musical artists include the musical groups of Parachute and Born in November.

The car show is organized by local restaurant DJ's BBQ located just over the tracks at Luther Road and Main Street. Entries need to pull in before 10:30 a.m. with a $20 entry.

The Chicken Shack will debut its new mobile food business, Bootleggers, with a food tent next to the festival stage on Main Street.

Luther Pecan Festival sponsors include: BancFirst, OG&E, Opus Entertainment, Great Plains Veterinary Services, Deep Fork Foods (and Pecans), Main St. Nutrition, Farmstead Cafe, Airosurf Communication, The Chicken Shack, Dump Depot., Thermal Kat Heating and Air Conditioning, Triangular Silt Dike, Heather Perry of Flourish Realty Group and At Link Services.

Other sponsors include Kandi Malphrus of Providence Realty, Choctaw HealthCare Express, Benson Park Pecans, Miller Pecans and Boydston Bailey Funeral Home. For more information, visit lutherregister.news.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 19

Page 20 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

PHOTO PROVIDED

The largest hospital expansion project in state history hit a very special milestone last week.

Largest such project in state history

Hospital expansion’s ‘Topping Off’ marked The largest hospital expansion project in Oklahoma history achieved a major construction milestone, Wednesday, Nov. 6, as the OU Medicine patient tower reached its highest structural point.

Under construction on the OU Medicine health campus and slated for opening late next year, the milestone was marked by celebration as the symbolic final beam was placed in the “Topping Out” ceremony.

OU Medicine leaders, state and local dignitaries, employees and other guests heard remarks delivered by Jerome Loughridge, Oklahoma’s Secretary of Health and Mental Health, during the festivities. Loughridge, and other speakers, talked about the impact the new patient tower will make on Oklahoma’s healthcare and economic scene.

“The tower represents not only state-of-the-art patient care, but is also creating new economic drive with statewide impact in this central Oklahoma hub of innovation, research, education and employment,” explained Chuck Spicer, president and CEO of OU Medicine. “Since 2018, OU Medicine has added 600 employees; as 2020 begins, an estimated additional 100 full time positions will become available.”

To coincide with this milestone, OU Medical Center will host a job fair from 5 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, November 12, on the first floor of the hospital, located at the southeast corner of N.E. 13th Street and Lincoln Blvd.

Designed by Perkins and Will, the new patient tower will span 450,000 square feet over nine floors (eight of those above ground), with room to grow. This marks the first ground-up hospital construction project for OU Medicine since 1975.

“Watching this project grow each day, we see the former footprint taking on greater depth and dimension.

PHOTO PROVIDED

The expansion at OU Medical Center will add an additional 144 beds.

This expansion will have great impact on the state of healthcare in Oklahoma,” said Casey Woods, chief operating officer, OU Medical Center, who oversees the project.

The current expansion will add 144 beds and 32 operating rooms to help support the needs of patients treated at Stephenson Cancer Center, those undergoing critical and complex surgical procedures, those with trauma-related injuries and more.

“Often, the people we care for are here during times of great crisis in their lives,” explained Kris Gose, OU

Medical Center president. “Family space is a critical design element that you’ll see integrated in multiple ways.

Patient rooms are bigger, with more space for visitors. Windows will offer views of the state capitol or the city’s skyline. The space also will support efficiency of care with more room for doctors and nurses to function with ease.”

OU Medicine is the only comprehensive academic health system in the state, offering the widest range of medical and surgical services in the region.

“OU Medicine has always been on the cutting edge of patient care,” Gose said. “We remain committed to delivering care that restores health and hope. This expansion opens new avenues to provide the most advanced care for more patients, including broader application of robotic surgical techniques.”

“Skill, expertise, experience and talent all contribute to successful outcomes in any field of endeavor,” said Ian Dunn, M.D., chair, department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. “And in every field, the craftsman, artisan, or physician is capable of delivering a more satisfying product or experience when he or she has the best tools and the best equipped environment in which to work. That’s what the new patient tower represents. Working as a team, we optimize our skills for the benefit of every patient who crosses the threshold of this center of health and healing.”

The Topping Out ceremony can be traced to an ancient Scandinavian religious rite of placing a tree atop a new building to appease the treedwelling spirits displaced in its construction. As buildings became less timber framed and more steel, the ceremony morphed into a tree or leafy branch being placed on the topmost beam, often with a flag tied to it. Today, in true Oklahoma fashion, a tree, the American flag and the Oklahoma state flag were placed with the final beam. The beam had been signed by many OU Medicine employees and guests at the Topping Out ceremony.

OU Medicine is the No. 1 ranked hospital system in Oklahoma, and its oncology program at Stephenson Cancer Center and OU Medical Center ranked in the Top 50 in the nation, in the 2019-2020 rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 21

Second month of ‘slow’ growth For a second consecutive month, October Gross Receipts to the Treasury are up by less than one percent compared to the prior year, suppressed by falling oil and gas production tax and sales tax collections, State Treasurer Randy McDaniel announced last week.

Total monthly collections from McDaniel all sources were $1.14 billion in October, up by $6.1 million, or 0.5 percent, from last year. October revenue reports saw collections from the gross production tax on crude oil and natural gas fall by almost 30 percent from the prior year, while sales tax receipts were down by about one percent.

“Gross receipts indicate Oklahoma’s economy is continuing to grow, albeit quite modestly, in spite of a pullback in two of the state’s major revenue streams,” McDaniel said. “Lower energy prices have pushed down gross production receipts. Additionally, for the

fourth time in the past five months, sales tax collections are below those of the prior year.”

Monthly receipts for individual and corporate income, use, and motor vehicle taxes are all above those of October 2018 at rates ranging from 25 percent to 1.4 percent. Gross receipts for the past 12 months, at $13.74 million, are up by $1.04 billion, or 8.2 percent.

Medical marijuana revenue In effect for the past year, Oklahoma’s medical marijuana tax of 7 percent, along with sales tax generated at licensed dispensaries, have added $41.3 million to gross receipts in the past 12 months. Of that, $18.1 million has come from the marijuana tax and $23.1 million from sales tax remitted by dispensaries.

In October, marijuana sales generated $6.8 million, including $3 million from the medical marijuana tax and $3.8 million in sales tax from dispensaries.

The figures indicate medical marijuana purchases have totaled $259.1 million during the past year.

Other indicators The Oklahoma Business Conditions Index for October fell below growth neutral for the second time in the past three months. October’s rate of 48.7 is down from 50.1 in September, indicating slow to no economic growth in the next three to

See McDaniel, Page 22

Union State Bank names Red Kettles go high-tech Braly Market President nity oriented bank that people Eric Kurtz, President and can depend on to meet their CEO of Union State Bank needs. We will offer concierge (“USB”), headquartered in style service, with high perArkansas City, Kan., has ansonal touch and high personal nounced that David Braly has service,” Braly said. joined USB as Executive ViceBraly is a member of the President / Edmond Market City of Edmond Capital ImPresident. provement Advisory Board, In this position Braly will use Braly and previously on the Central his vast banking experience to Oklahoma Alzheimer’s Associagrow Union State Bank’s prestion Leadership Council. ence within the organization’s newest “I am pleased to announce that market. Braly will office at USB’s David Braly will be joining the organinewly opened Edmond, Oklahoma zation. He will be responsible for loan/deposit production office, located at 1901 S. Kelly Ave., Suite 120. growing the Union State Bank brand into the Edmond, Oklahoma banking “I joined Union State Bank because I wanted an opportunity to work for a space and we look forward to the opportunity that this presents within a community bank that cares about fast-growing, dynamic consumer and their customers and their employees.

It ties back to ‘Better Together’ (Union business climate,” stated Kurtz.

Founded in 1908, Union State Bank State Bank’s slogan) and making that has ten banking locations serving a reality every day,” Braly said.

A life-long Oklahoma resident, Braly communities of Arkansas City, Udall, graduated from the University of Cen- Winfield and Wichita in Kansas and in Bartlesville and Edmond. Union State tral Oklahoma and the Graduate Bank offers a full range of electronic, School of Banking at Louisiana State deposit and cash management servUniversity. He has over 37-years of ices, as well as business and agriculbanking experience, and more than ture, commercial real estate, 20-years of banking leadership within construction, mortgage, residential the Edmond area. and consumer loans.

“In my role as Market President for To learn more, visit their website at Edmond, I hope to expand upon the www.myunionstate.com. bank’s history as successful, commu-

Bank announces VP appointment for Arkansas AssociaFirst Liberty Bank tion of Charitable welcomes Lynn Clinics; Rotary Club Blankenship as Vice Hot Springs National President in the Park 2016; Present Healthcare Banking Leadership Hot Division.

Springs, Graduate After a successful 2016; Restore Hope 30-year tenure as a Garland County Govbanking professional ernor’s committee to in Oklahoma City, improve recidivism Lynn relocated to Hot and foster care; Springs, Ark. and Arkansas Hospice Adbegan volunteering at visory Council. Lynn a non-profit medical is looking forward to clinic. getting back to comThis led to the pomunity involvement sition of CFO, then in Oklahoma City.

Executive Director.

Her commitment “It’s great to be back Lynn Blankenship to excellence has in Oklahoma,” said earned her recognition Lynn “I am looking as Arkansas Business, Non-Profit Execforward to using my banking knowlutive of the Year 2019, Hot Springs edge together with my management Chamber of Commerce, Non-Profit of experience in the medical clinic to the year Nomination 2015, 2017 serve the banking and finance needs Bridges Out of Poverty, and Commuof medical professionals in the Oklanity of the Year Award 2017. homa City Metro area,” said Lynn.

Blankenship earned an Associate “We are so pleased to have Lynn Degree in Finance with an emphasis join us at First Liberty Bank,” said on Banking from Oklahoma City Joey Root, President & CEO. “With Community College in Oklahoma her depth of knowledge in banking City. and healthcare, she will be a great In addition she attended the Comaddition to our lending team,” added mercial Lending School at Oklahoma Root.

Lynn’s previous community involve- Banker’s Association, Stillwater, Oklament includes President and Treasurer homa and holds several certifications.

As America moves toward becoming a cashless society, The Salvation Army is making it easier for donors to give back during the Christmas season by making a gift with Apple Pay or Google Pay at the iconic Red Kettles.

The Salvation Army has placed QR codes and smart chips on Red Kettle signs across Central Oklahoma, allowing shoppers to simply scan or “bump” their phones to make a digital donation.

Shoppers will be directed to a custom donation page that accepts Apple or Google payment options.

The funds will then be distributed to

local Salvation Army units, and an email receipt will be sent directly to their phone.

“Kettle Pay offers individuals new avenues to make a gift,” said Major Stephen Ellis, area commander for The Salvation Army of Central Oklahoma. “When an individual visits our kettles, traditionally we could only accept cash, coin or check. This technology allows for so many in the community who may not have cash on them but still want to make a gift to support the numerous programs we have, helping our communities by investing in the lives of those who may have fallen on hard times.”

Page 22 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure

NASA Administrator next OKC Town Hall speaker NORTH NOR RT TH SECTION SECTION

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held at noon. Season tickets for the lecture series are $90 each. Season luncheon tickets are $120. More ticket information is at okctownhall.com or by calling 405202-4262.

Science-related school groups can attend for free. Call OKC Town Hall president Bill Price at 405-209-5050 for more information.

From Page 21

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The next OKC Town Hall lecture features NASA Administrator and former Oklahoma Congressman Jim Bridenstine on Thursday, Nov. 21. His lecture will be on the future of space exploration.

Prior to being confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2018 to lead the space agency, Bridenstine represented Oklahoma’s First Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives after being elected in 2012. He served n the Armed Services Committee and the Science, Space and Technology Committee.

Bridenstine’s career in federal service began in the U.S. Navy as a pilot, where he flew missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and flew at eh Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center, the parent command of TOPGUN. Bridenstine’s OKC Town Hall is the third in the six-lecture series.

Each of the lectures in the 20192020 series will take place at the Church of the Servant, 14343 N. MacArthur Blvd. in Oklahoma City.

The lectures will start at 11:00am.

Luncheons with the Speaker will be

six months.

The seasonally adjusted jobless rate for Oklahoma was unchanged at 3.2 percent in September for a fifth consecutive month. The U.S. unemployment rate dropped to 3.5 percent in September, down from 3.7 percent the prior month, according to figures released by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.

October collections October gross collections total $1.14 billion, up by $6.1 million, or 0.5 percent, from October 2018.

Gross income tax collections, a combination of individual and corporate income taxes, generated $395.7 million, an increase of $26.3 million, or 7.1 percent, from the previous October.

Individual income tax collections for the month are $373.9 million, up by $21.9 million, or 6.2 percent, from the prior year. Corporate collections are $21.8 million, an increase of $4.4 million, or 25 percent. Large monthly variances are not unusual for corporate income tax collections.

Combined sales and use tax collections, including remittances on behalf of cities and counties, total $459.3 million in October. That is $3.2 million, or 0.7 percent, more than October 2018.

Sales tax collections in October total $399 million, a drop of $3.6 million, or 0.9 percent from the same month of the prior year. Use tax receipts, collected on out-of-state purchases including online sales, generated $60.4 million, an increase of $6.8 million, or 12.8 percent, over the year.

Gross production taxes on oil and natural gas generated $71.6 million in October, a decrease of $30.5 million, or 29.8 percent, from last October. Compared to September 2019

reports, gross production collections are down by $2.2 million, or 3 percent.

Motor vehicle taxes produced $66.9 million, up by $912,072, or 1.4 percent, from the same month of 2018.

Other collections composed of some 60 different sources including taxes on fuel, tobacco, medical marijuana, and alcoholic beverages, produced $151 million during the month. That is $6.1 million, or 4.2 percent, more than last October.

Twelve-month collections Gross revenue totals $13.74 billion from the past 12 months, November 2018 through October 2019. That is $1.04 billion, or 8.2 percent, above collections from the previous 12month period.

Gross income taxes generated $4.67 billion for the 12 months, reflecting an increase of $275.2 million, or 6.3 percent, from the prior 12 months.

Individual income tax collections total $4.15 billion, up by $248.5 million, or 6.4 percent, from the prior period. Corporate collections are $524.3 million for the period, an increase of $26.7 million, or 5.4 percent, over the previous 12 months.

Combined sales and use taxes for the 12 months generated $5.61 billion, an increase of $264 million, or 4.9 percent, from the prior period.

Gross sales tax receipts total $4.89 billion, up by $103.8 million, or 2.2 percent, during the period. Use tax collections generated $718.8 million, an increase of $160.1 million, or 28.7 percent over the previous 12 months.

Oil and gas gross production tax collections brought in $1.1 billion during the 12 months, up by $246.9 million, or 28.7 percent, from the previous 12 months.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 14, 2019 • Page 23

Parents Helping Parents meeting to be on Nov. 19 The Parents Helping Parents speaker on Tuesday, Nov. 19 is Dr. Lisa Marotta.

Her topic is, "How to minimize stress and maxi- Begins at 6 p.m. mize your peace and serenity." The Edmond Chapter of Parents Helping Parents meets at McLaren's Pantry located at 3414 South Boulevard in the Boulevard Shopping Center located in the SE corner of 33rd and Boulevard in Edmond.

The restaurant is closed to the general public at 6 p.m. The meeting is from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

The organization provides support, resources and hope for parents of addicted children (any age child).

This is an anonymous meeting and no cost or reservations required. For more information please call 405-642-8198.

Stipend recipientS High school students Marleigh West (left) of Edmond (Memorial) and Reagan Klutts (right) of Ringling won $1,000 scholarships at the recent SWOSU Saturday held on the campus of Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford. Making the presentation was SWOSU Student Government Association President Jaycie Brown of Chickasha. SWOSU Saturday is an annual event for prospective students and their family members.

‘Night with the Arts’ event at Edmond’s Stonegate Church Stonegate Church, at 17101 N. Western, will be having a “Night with The Arts,” on Sunday Nov. 17 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Church officials say the community is invited and there is no cost to attend. However donations will be accepted.

The evening will see music, drama and art or in other words, “A night of gratitude to the Creator for the gifts He has bestowed.

Featured artists are David Cost, a singer; Lee Reeder, poet, producer, playwright and publicist; Marye Brown, portrait painter and Bonnie Woodworth, fabric and quilt Artesian.

Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi Good Shepherd Anglican Church (Traditional Episcopal) 1000 N. Broadway, Edmond •314-8715 Sundays - Holy Communion 8:00 & 10:00am Animal Friendly Parish “If you have people who exclude any of God’s creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have those who deal likewise with their fellow human being.”

St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

www.anglicancgsedmondok.com 1928 Book of Common Prayer • anglicancgesedmondok.com

SCRIPTURE • TRADITION • REASON

Page 24 • November 14, 2019 • Edmond Life & Leisure