Edmond Life and Leisure - April 13, 2023

In This Issue

FOUR SEASONS

One of nation’s top wrestlers Reflects on title season

By Mike Kirk Shawn

Streck couldn’t have written a better script for his junior season at Central Oklahoma.

The agile 260-pounder went a perfect 26-0 to become UCO’s first-ever heavyweight national champion in helping lead the Bronchos to their 16th team title and Friday was named the NCAA Division II Wrestler of the Year by the National Wrestling Coaches Association.

“It feels really good,” Streck said on hearing the news.

“I’m grateful to my teammates and coaches for all they did to help me get to this point, all credit goes to them. An award like this makes me realize people appreciate the work I put in.”

Streck joins Chris Watson (2015) and Heath Gray (2020) as UCO individuals to win Division II’s top award, which started in 2008 and is voted on by every head coach in the country.

“This is an amazing achievement for Shawn and he earned it,” head coach Todd Steidley said. “He won at what I think was the strongest weight in the country this year. Shawn’s a guy who comes to the room every day ready to work and we’re excited for all the success he’s had.”

Streck missed the first month of the season recovering from shoulder surgery, debuting at the Drury Open on Dec. 3. He breezed to that title, then added gold medals at the prestigious Midwest Classic and the Division II Super Regional IV Tournament in earning the No. 1 seed for the national meet.

Streck made that stand up with four easy decisions during the NCAA Division II Championships March 1011 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, capped by an 8-3 finals win over Glenville State’s Jared Campbell.

His 26-0 campaign included 16 bonus-point wins (nine falls, six major decisions, one technical fall). Streck held an astounding 123-1 takedown advantage this season, giving up his lone takedown in an 8-3 win over Lander’s Juan Edmond-Holmes in the national tournament quarterfinals.

The Merrillville, Ind. native was a high school All-American and started his collegiate career at Division I Purdue, qualifying for the national tournament as a redshirt freshman there.

He was out of wrestling for several years before coming to UCO at the semester break last season and went on to earn All-America honors with a sixth-place national finish after defaulting his last two matches with injury.

“I was new to UCO last year and things I planned didn’t go my way, but it was different this year,” Streck said. “I had the whole year with the guys and the coaches and I felt more comfortable and settled in.

“Coach Chenny (assistant Scott Chenoweth) was amazing. He really helped me, from training to match strategy and everything else. I was more confident this year and carried that into the national tournament.”

So what does the reigning national champion and newly-minted Division II Wrestler of the Year do for an encore as a senior in 2023-24?

“Honestly this doesn’t change much for me,” Streck said. “I’m going to continue to put the work in, both in the wrestling room and the weight room, and wrestle in as many off-season tournaments as I can.

“I’m really thankful for the position I’m in right now. I love that I’m a part of this program and appreciate everything UCO has done for me.”

The Broncho wrestling family feels the same way.

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. Iris

UCO’s Streck named ‘Wrestler of the Year’

North state champs, winning earlier this year.

Champion Huskies visit State Capitol

On April 3, the Edmond North boys swim team visited the state capitol, putting an exclamation point on a hard-fought, record-breaking season that culminated in winning the state championship by one point.

The Huskies, which hadn’t won a state swimming team title since 2016, began the season determined and focused on winning the state championship, but they also knew it wouldn’t be easy. Jenks had won the title the previous 4 years and appeared to have much-needed depth to repeat this season.

Yet, Edmond North was undeterred. The confident Huskies headed into the Class 6A state swim meet at Edmond Public Schools Aquatic Center with Central Oklahoma Association of Coaches (COAC) and 6A West Regional championships in hand. Still, they knew that to claim the state championship, they would need to sweep the relay events and every swimmer would need to score in their individual races.

Edmond North sent a strong message by winning the opening relay –the 200-yard medley – in dominating fashion with Ryan Healy, Collin Ho, Garrett Levendofsky and Riley Conway stopping the clock at 1 minute, 35.50 seconds.

The Huskies would proceed to win 2 out of the next 3 events. Three swimmers contributed individual championships in their events, led by senior Healy (200-yard individual medley) and sophomores Conway (50-yard freestyle) and Jack Starrett (100-yard freestyle).

In the 200-freestyle relay, the Huskies won with Conway and Starrett teaming up with senior Michael Harley and freshman Dylan Eden, winning in 1:26.84.

Throughout the meet, the Huskies knew the team score was close. But it wouldn’t be until the meet’s final race – the 400-freestyle relay – that the North swim team secured the title. The boys’ relay team of Starrett, Harley, Levendofsky and Healy swam convincingly to first place with a 3:10.06, but it was the Bartlesville swim team that finished two seconds later and out-touched the Jenks boys, helping lift the Huskies to a one-point victory over Jenks.

The Edmond North boys also rewrote the record books this season. All three relay records were broken during the season. Individually, Healy set new records in the 100 breaststroke and 100 freestyle, while Jack Starrett broke the oldest school record from 1994 in the 200 freestyle.

April demo artist is Steve Boaldin and will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal Church on 3100 N. Broadway, Edmond.

Art of a Cowboy is part documentary and part reality show that captures cowboy artist Steve Boaldin and cocreator Saraa Kami’s vision of preserving the legacy of cowboys and ranchers on film and on canvas. Each30minute episode is jampacked with real-life action To know more about this month’s Demo artist contact Susie Varner at 330-418-5837.

Edmond Art Association Demo Artist Steve Boaldin

Edmond Arts Festival May 5-7

When you say the words Arts Festival around these parts in the month of April, many folks think of the Oklahoma City Arts Festival which is a wonderful event. I know that we are biased but as much as I like and grew up with the OKC festival, my preference has always been the Edmond Downtown Arts Festival right outside our door.

Ray Hibbard

Our Edmond festival will be held May 5 through May 7th in downtown Edmond of course. My sister is a long-time volunteer at the Oklahoma City event, and I have tried to tear her away for the arts festival in Edmond. She continues to stay loyal to OKC. Maybe next year!

Sponsored by the merchants of the Downtown Edmond Business Association, the event marks the 45th annual year for this award-winning event. “We attract top talent from across the nation to our show,” said Michelle Schaefer, Arts Festival cochair. The proceeds help the downtown merchants pay for marketing that highlights the unique businesses in Downtown Edmond.

There will be 150 artists from thirteen states participating, some from as far away as Florida and Wyoming, highlighting their talents in oil, acrylic, watercolor, jewelry, pottery and photography. There will also be a special section on First Street for Artisan crafters, showing their skills in leather, wood, resin, glass, metal and fabric. Do not miss the artists in the Valor Bank Art Plaza, between Main and Hurd on the west side of the street. Many of those artists are new to our show, so you are sure to see something you have never seen before.

It is put on by the downtown merchants as a gift to our community. Edmond Life & Leisure will once again be the official program producer for the arts festival, and you will see that in our newspaper and around town the week of April 27th. It will also be online and your official guide to all things about this year’s Edmond Downtown Arts Festival.

In addition to all the art, music, food and fun you have come to expect, there are a few new things for you to do. First, we have a smaller, more maneuverable shuttle bus. Now you do not have to worry about trying to find a parking place and walking in the heat and the wind on public streets.

Visitors can park at one of two UCO parking lots on the west side of 1st and University, and board the bus. After a short three-minute ride they will be dropped off at Littler Lawn at 1st and Littler, just a half block away from the arts festival.

The shuttle service will be free, thanks to sponsorship by Visit Edmond, the Edmond Chamber and the Edmond Economic Development Authority. The bus will run every 15 minutes from 9:30 am to 8:30 pm on Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6, and from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm on Sunday, May 7.

“We often heard of visitors frustrated with the lack of close parking, especially from parents of young children and those with mobility issues,” said Schaefer. “We want to make it easy for anyone to be able to attend without worrying about walking several blocks in the heat and wind.” Compared to the distance you might walk for other

Check out what’s

Always

events and festivals; I never thought it was far here in Edmond.

Another event that is new to the Arts Festival is a partnership with Vibes, the first Thursday event sponsored by the Edmond Fine Arts Institute. It will be a wonderful way to get things kicked off before the big event starts on May 5th. Because the downtown streets will be blocked the evening of May 4 for arts festival setup, the FAI will host a "mini-Vibes" on Broadway north of Campbell up to Edwards, then east on Edwards to the FAI offices. There will be artist displays, music and other acts performing on the sidewalks and in local businesses. Downtown restaurants and some shops will be open, so please stay on the sidewalks and use caution when crossing the streets downtown.

You can download the Downtown Edmond app, so you can look for your favorite artist and see the entertainment schedule. Download it from www.downtownedmondok.com or from a QR code when you get there. We will have the QR code in the program as well.

Be sure and venture west down First Street to the Festival Marketplace, where there will be a huge assortment of fun and games for all ages. Look for a large tent to find a variety of children’s activities, such as face painting and a painting project. There will also be a plant vendor and a balloon artist who also does close magic. Check the schedule to see when your favorite princess or superhero will appear.

There will also be some commercial vendors and a first aid station. Look for the giant game area where you can play on a sixteen square foot chess board with 3-foot-tall chess pieces or play a game of giant checkers or Connect 4. There will also be giant interlocking bricks, giant stacking blocks, giant dominoes, ring toss and cornhole games. Also returning are two new activities from last year: free throw games and an 8-foot piano keyboard.

Keep going to the covered pavilion where you can sit in the shade and listen to local school

choirs, dance groups and singers. On Saturday at 3 pm there will be a singalong from Disney's "Encanto". An Edmond favorite, the Old Bulldog Band, will perform Saturday evening at 7 pm. Sunday will feature the Magic and Balloon Art of Keith Coast at 2 pm.

There are also three street corner musical venues featuring local favorites such as Edgar Cruz and cellist Sam Kahre. While local restaurants will be open, look for your favorite food vendors to return, in addition to a few new tastes.

Saturday is UCO Day at the Arts Festival. Come to the hospitality tent and have a 360-degree photo taken with Buddy Broncho and the UCO Cheer and Pom Squads. Downtown merchants will donate gifts to put in a giant basket that will be raffled off, with the proceeds donated to Edmond Mobile Meals.

I can tell you the food temptation right outside my office for those three days is incredible. The wonderful smells waft into our office by 9:00 a.m. My all-time favorite is the catfish and I hope the truck will be back again this year. There are a variety of healthy options for these days. The trucks used to be more state fair food but anymore it is gourmet and all of it is freshly prepared. You will not be disappointed with the choices of food.

With so many restaurants in downtown Edmond these days, you have a lot of sit-down options as well. Some folks just prefer to go inside and take a break while being waited on at a table. The choices have never been better and keep improving every year.

For more information on the Arts Festival or other downtown Edmond activities, go to www.downtownedmondok.com, or the arts festival Facebook page @DowntownEdmondArtsFestival. You can also download an app from the web site that gives you all artist locations and scheduled activities.

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

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com

Partner Christopher T. Hoke

“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.

Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com

Production Deanne York Advertising Director Business Editor Alexx Reger alexx@edmondpaper.com

Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Patty Miller, Rose Drebes, and George Gust.

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2023 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax)

Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083

Weekend calendar, April 13-16

What’s Happening This Weekend April 13-16-

---- In the Gallery

---- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

---- UCO Design – The ADDY Winners Gallery

---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 ---- 2020 ---- Live Music at Round Midnight

Frenzy in April ---- UCO Jazz Lab Events in April ---- Edmond Jr. Rodeo

---- Heard on Hurd

---- Farmer’s Market

---- The Western Heritage Awards

---- Western Heritage Awards Workshop: “The Vaquero Way: Spanish Horsemanship” ---- Western Heritage Awards Discussion

---- Signature Tour

---- Sunday Spotlight: Board Games

---- Read the West Book Club: The Great Taos Bank Robbery and the other True Stories of the Southwest

---- Lyric Theatre presents: The Play That Goes Wrong ---- UCO Department of Theatre Arts presents: The Revolutionists ---- Oklahoma City Farm Show

---- Oklahoma Wind Festival

---- Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show

---- OKC Bird Bazaar

---- Be Well Expo

---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Road Trip on Route 66!

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: James Coplin Gallery Opening; Thu, Apr 6; 5 – 8 p.m.; Free; Featuring the art of James Coplin; edmondfinearts.com

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

Extra Info: Wed, Oct 5 – Thu, Aug 31, 2023; edmondhistory.org

UCO Design – The ADDY Winners Gallery

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO

Nigh Center

Extra Info: Thu, Mar 30 – Fri, May 12; free; calendar.uco.edu

Unveiled: Edmond’s

Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020

Location: Edmond History Museum

Extra Info: Wed, Mar 1 – Fri, Dec 1; visitedmondok.com

Live Music at Round Midnight

Location: Round Midnight

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 13: Vintage Vinyl; Fri, Apr 14: Garrett Jacobson Duo; Sat, Apr 15: Noah Engh Trio; 7 – 10 p.m.; facebook.com

Frenzy in April

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 13: Steven Brann; 7 p.m.; Fri, Apr 14: Copperhead Crossing; 7:30 p.m.; frenzybrewing.com

UCO Jazz Lab Events in April

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO

Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 13: Student Recitals; 7 p.m.; $10; Fri, Apr 14: Shortt Dogg; 8 p.m.; $15; Sat, Apr 15: Student Recitals; 3 p.m.; free; ucojazzlab.com

Edmond Jr. Rodeo

Location: Edmond Round Up Club – Carl Benne

Arena

Extra Info: Fri, Apr 14 – Sat, Apr 15; Adults: $5; 18 & younger: $1; Fri & Sat: 7 p.m.; Sat: 4 p.m. for bull riding, steer riding and calf riding; edmondroundupclub.com

Heard on Hurd

Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15; 6 – 10 p.m.; free; mycitizens.bank

Farmer’s Market

Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15 – Sat, Oct 28; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.gov

The Western Heritage Awards

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Fri, Apr 14; ---- Sat, Apr 15; 8 a.m. ---- 9 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Western Heritage Awards Workshop:

“The Vaquero Way: Spanish Horsemanship”

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Fri, Apr 14; 11 a.m. ---- 12 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Western Heritage Awards Panel Discussion Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15; 11 a.m. ---- 12 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15 – Sun, Apr 16; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Sunday Spotlight: Board Games

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sun, Apr 16; 1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Read the West Book Club: The Great Taos Bank Robbery and the other True Stories of the Southwest

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sun, Apr 16; 1 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Lyric Theatre Presents: The Play That Goes Wrong

Location: Lyric at the Plaza

Extra Info: Wed, Apr 5 – Sat, Apr 29; Wed & Thu:

7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 2 p.m.; lyrictheatreokc.com

UCO Department of Theatre Arts presents: The Revolutionists

Location: Mitchell Hall Theatre, Edmond, OK

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 13 – Sun, Apr 16; Thu – Sat: 7:30 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; uco.edu

Oklahoma City Farm Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 13 – Sat, Apr 15; Thu & Fri: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; oklahomacityfarmshow.com

Oklahoma Wind Festival

Location: Scissortail Park

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; scissortailpark.org

Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15 – Sun, Apr 16; Sat: 9 a.m. –5 p.m.; Sun: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okcgunshow.com

OKC Bird Bazaar

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; facebook.com

Be Well Expo

Location: India Shrine of Oklahoma City

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15; 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Free; bewellexpo.org

OKC Philharmonic presents: Road Trip on Route 66!

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Sun, Apr 16; 2 p.m.; okcphil.org

Put on by the Edmond Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association

Inaugural car, truck & bike show April 22

By Rose Drebes

Some 60-80 cars, trucks and motorcycles are expected to take part in the Edmond Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association’s Inaugural Ready to Serve Car, Truck and Bike Show.

The event is set to take place 8 a.m.to 3 p.m., April 22, at Edmond North High School. The show begins with 8-10 a.m. registration, followed by 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. judging by participants and a 3 p.m. trophy awards ceremony.

Ninety trophies are to be presented and the day includes a live DJ, food and a 50/50 raffle, organizer Ken Kappers said.

Kappers said that when he pitched the idea of a show to Edmond Police Chief J.D. Younger, he was all in. The goal of Ready to Serve is to bring the community and the police department together.

“The ECPAAA is always looking for ways to touch the community,” Kappers said. “This brings the community and the PD into a stronger relationship, which pays dividends for us all.”

In fact, the mission of the Alumni Association is “to increase public support of the Edmond Police Department; improve relations between the public

and the Edmond Police Department; and educate the public about the function and role of the Citizens Police Academy,” he said.

There are to be 44 classes of cars, trucks and motorcycles, with everything from vintage cars and trucks to Jeeps, Mustangs and Corvettes and choppers, cruisers and e-bikes taking part.

“The public is welcome and encouraged to come to the show," Kappers said. "We have attended car shows promoting ours from Tulsa, Stillwater, Norman, Enid and OKC.

“We are looking for a great show because car people all over the state are very enthusiastic about coming to our show for two reasons:  To show their pride and joy vehicles; and, to support law enforcement.” Registration is available at wesupportedmondpd.org. The cost is $20 online or $25 day of the show.

The association’s share of the 50/50 raffle is to be donated to the Edmond Police Department Officer Memorial Fund to assist officer’s families and EPD in their loss.

For more information, visit the website or call Kappers at (405) 513-2394.

Oklahoma History Symposium to be held April 22

The Oklahoma Historical Society will present “Perspectives in History,” the 2023 Oklahoma History Symposium, on Saturday, April 22, at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. This one-day symposium offers scholars, historians, authors and museum professionals a forum to share their work with history enthusiasts through presentations centered on topics in Oklahoma’s history. Four professional development sessions also will be offered for museum professionals, volunteers and students.

The Oklahoma History Symposium is free and open to the public, but attendees must register in advance. A complete schedule, session descriptions and registration details are available online. Registered participants may attend any or all sessions,

the book signing and the keynote.

The keynote speaker is Dr. Karlos Hill, regents’ professor of the Clara Luper Department of African and American Studies at the University of Oklahoma. His speech is titled “Clara Luper’s Radical Love: A Tribute to the 65th Anniversary of the Katz Drugstore Sit-in.” Dr. Hill is the author of three books. He founded the Tulsa Race Massacre Oklahoma Teacher’s Institute to support teaching the history of the race massacre to thousands of middle and high school students. Hill also serves on the Clara Luper Legacy Committee board and the Board of Scholars for Facing History and Ourselves. Dr. Hill is actively engaged in other community initiatives working toward racial reconciliation.

The event is sponsored by Preservation Okla-

homa, Inc. It is the state’s only private, nonprofit membership organization that is dedicated to promoting, supporting and coordinating historic preservation activities throughout the state. To learn more about Preservation Oklahoma, please visit www.preservationok.org.

The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.

Fitness influencers not qualified

By Brian Attebery

The internet is amazing. We can get so much information out there at the tips of our fingers on our laptops or phones. I love the access it gives us.

YouTube can be a great resource as well. I have learned several things from various opinions from those channels. We hear the word “influencers” when it comes to various topics out there on social media world. I see lots of “likes” and “loves” on Instagram and Facebook in the fitness world. They show those “ripped abs” and amazing acts of strength and poses and now, they are an “expert”. That 19 year old with three years of gym experience with forgiving joints, high hormone levels and the metabolism of a cheetah is ready to tell the general public how to be fit? I don’t think so. When trying to figure out what is best, what advice should you look for?  How do you know who is the best person to turn to?

The internet aside, I have watched people turn to their “fit friend” for fitness and motivation advise throughout the years. I do think that can be a great way to be inspired but maybe not the best way to get started with a program. If you are a beginner, you need to do beginner fitness.  Your friend is advanced, in shape and experienced. In addition, what injuries do you have? What is your fitness level?  Have you been to the Doctor in recent years to have a cardiovascular assessment?

These are all factors that need to be considered and your friend is most likely not your Doctor.

Trying to do an advanced workout when you are not advanced is a recipe for disaster.  You may get injured or at least have a very discouraging first experience with fitness and get overwhelmed.

I have been an expert witness is a few lawsuits involving the fitness industry over the years.

Some were to defend a gym,and some were to go after them.  In the cases that the “trainers”

had severally injured the customer, 100% of the time they had no formal education. Just because someone looks fit and knows how to do their own workouts, doesn’t mean they are qualified to design everyone’s workouts. There are not any state or federal laws that require “trainers” to have a formal education. Yes, you are required to have a License to cut hair or do nails but not direct someone with their health goals.  Now, imagine taking direction from a social media “pro”?  Your health is too important to not seek proper instruction.

I love to be inspired by various fitness routines, celebrities and athletes that are on the internet. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. I also must remember that I am me and not them.  I have certain goals and limitations that I must factor in.  So do you.  Your fitness goals are for you and the level of fitness you are at in your current situation. Perhaps you will be able to do a routine you have been inspired by some day. Perhaps you will surpass that person you were inspired by?  Whatever you do, take your

time and be realistic about what you should do right now.  Find a qualified, real expert and get a program by a professional that will truly influence your future health goals.

(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.co m)

Attebery

OMRF receives $2.1 million grant

The National Institutes of Health has awarded the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation $2.1 million to investigate a potential genetic cause of degenerative heart valve disease.

“Like everything else in the body, heart valves degenerate as we age,” said OMRF cardiovascular biologist Sathish Srinivasan, Ph.D., who received the four-year grant. “But some people experience it earlier than others.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart valve disease affects about 2.5% of the U.S. population and close to 13% of people aged 80 and older. Although medication can treat symptoms, no drugs exist to prevent the disease or repair damaged valves, Srinivasan said.

In the two most common forms of the condition, blood either leaks back into the heart or the valve becomes stiff and narrow, preventing blood from passing through.

Known genetic predisposition explains about 1 in 10 cases of heart valve disease, Srinivasan said. In those cases, researchers have identified the responsible genetic variants.

He believes that within the remaining 90%, a lifestyle factor such as smoking, poor diet or lack of exercise may flip a switch in people with unidentified genetic variants. “We suspect that reaction negatively affects a valve’s ability to repair itself

and regenerate tissue during normal wear and tear,” Srinivasan said.

Vascular valves, far smaller and more plentiful than heart valves, are found in blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. Srinivasan’s lab was the first to observe that the genes that regulate the formation of vascular valves also are found in heart valves.

In his new study, his lab will use research models to determine what happens to heart valves when a gene known to be critical in vascular valves is turned off.

“We expect to find that the absence of this gene causes heart valves to age rapidly,” Srinivasan said. “If our hypothesis is correct, we can focus on how the gene functions and eventually work toward therapies that prevent heart valves from aging prematurely.”

OMRF scientist Lijun Xia, M.D., Ph.D., noted that degenerative heart valve disease can lead to heart failure or even death.

“Our current understanding of the various causes of this condition is incomplete,” said Xia, who leads OMRF’s Cardiovascular Biology Research Program. “Dr. Srinivasan and his team are making substantial headway on one particular cause, with a goal of someday identifying targets for new medications.”

Assessor’s office notes fire damage

“The Wildfire damage in Oklahoma County on March 31st, 2023 is determined to be $727,220 to the two properties impacted in Oklahoma County,” Oklahoma County Assessor Larry Stein said.

Two property owners in the northern area of Oklahoma County lost their homes.

“Our crews and I were at the scene and it was a devastating loss. The fire destroyed two residences. There were volunteer cleanup crews working to remove debris including burned vehicles. A volunteer from the Baptist Convention said to me the metal was being recycled and he brought back $600 for one of the victims and she explained how she can buy some clothes now because she lost everything,” Stein said.

If you can, please reach out to your favorite charities who are responding to the tragedy.

“The Wildfires hit Logan County the hardest where 76 homes, manufactured homes and out buildings were affected. The Logan County Assessor’s Office is still working to determine the total damage. The fires started in Logan County and thanks to area fire fighters and county emergency personnel by the time the fires crossed into Oklahoma County they were beginning to be contained. It was the hard work of the firefighting crews that may have helped prevent more damage in Oklahoma County,” Stein said.

Our office documents the damage and will reduce the value which will reduce the property tax obligation of the property owners for the current year. The legislation allowing this authority was written and supported by assessors to address natural disasters at any time during the calendar year.

Lawyer named to panel

The shareholders of Crowe & Dunlevy have named Edmond attorney Kari Hoffhines to serve on the firm’s Executive Committee.

The Executive Committee is responsible for managing all aspects of the firm’s day-to-day business operations.

Hoffhines is a member of the firm’s Real Estate and Banking & Financial Institutions Practice Groups. She is a graduate of Oklahoma City University School of Law and earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Central Oklahoma.

About Crowe & Dunlevy

For 120 years, Crowe & Dunlevy has been a leader in innovative and effective legal solutions for businesses and individuals. Crowe & Dunlevy offers comprehensive transactional and litigation services from early mediation to complex commercial litigation to alternative dispute resolution. Through our nearly 30 practice groups, we work with diverse clientele and industries to achieve the most challenging legal objectives and solve our client’s complex legal issues. For more information, visit crowedunlevy.com.

Kari Hoffines

Sathish Srinivasan, Ph.D.

The joys & ease of French dish Cassoulet

By Carol Smaglinski Cassoulet, (ka soo LAY) a

tantalizing casserole from French cuisine with no fancy ingredients, is more than just cleaning out your refrigerator to make a stew.

The winter peasant dish could be composed of layers of white beans, sausage, diced tomatoes, various types of meat including chicken, duck, lamb and lower cost economical cuts of beef, or pork. Also incorporated are harmonizing flavors from aromatic onions, garlic, and herbs. Red or white wine is added to develop the sauce and the casserole is finally topped off with bread crumbs and then simmered for hours.

Recipes in a French cookbook can go on for pages. For entertaining, it is best made two days in advance. While the delicious scents from the oven fill the kitchen, add some good music, plus sparkling conversation and you have a meal fit for a king and queen. Plus, lots of leftovers for another meal, which might taste better reheated. As the French say, ”Hunger is the best sauce.”

But there is so much controversy raised over its original recipe, as each town in the French countryside has its own legendary recipe. In France, cassoulet is constructed over a series of days. Here in the Hurry Up U.S., it is redeveloped into a quick and easy main dish.

For example, the French might add salt pork, smoked tongue, chicken livers and the meat in some regions is rubbed with herbs and spices and allowed to marinate overnight. Here, after completion, dry bread crumbs (gratin) are sprinkled over the top of the casserole and left undisturbed. In France, after being browned, the thick crust is mixed into the casserole.

Before starting your own cassoulet adventure, have everything on a tray and breeze right through.

What’s the rush? Low and slow means saving dough, but this hearty

meal only needs 30 minutes in cooking, and giving you time to open a bottle of wine.

Cassoulet

Six servings

3 slices of bacon, chopped

1 lb. boneless and skinned chicken thighs, coarsely chopped

½ lb. smoked Polish sausage (kielbasa)

1 large yellow onion, chopped

2 large carrots, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 Tbsp. tomato paste

½ cup heavy red or white wine

1 (14 oz.). can of diced tomatoes, with basil, garlic and oregano

1 cup chicken broth

A selection of dried spices from your collection: a pinch of bay leaves, tarragon, rosemary, marjoram and sage or a Tbsp. of herbs de Provence black pepper to taste

2 - 15 oz. cans of cannellini beans that have been rinsed and drained

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

2 Tbsp. butter, melted

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

In an extra-large oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven, cook and stir the bacon until it browns a bit. Add chicken and sausage. Cook until nicely browned, stirring now and then for 7 to 8 minutes.

Place meat in a bowl and reserve. Add onion, carrots and garlic to the pan. Cook for 10 minutes. Add tomato paste and mix and then add wine.

Add diced tomatoes, broth, herbs and pepper. Add the meat back to the pan and bring to a boil. Turn down heat, gently add beans and bring to a simmer.

For the crumb topping, melt the butter, add Panco and sprinkle over the top. Bake until the edges are bubbling and the top is browned for 25 to 30 minutes. Bring it to the dining room table and just say “Bon appetit” (bawn nah pay TEE) making sure that the T on the end is silent.

Update on ESA activities

Epsilon Sigma Alpha is an international philanthropic organization that was chartered in 1929 in Jacksonville, Texas for the purpose of preparing its members to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world. More than 93 years later, ESA continues to meet this original goal through the educational, leadership, and service programs that were born through the organization’s commitment to making a positive difference for its members and the local causes they support.

Each new member receives the Grecian Lamp of Learning pin. The Lamp is a symbol of our pursuit of knowledge In addition, each new

members receives the jewel pin, signifying full membership in ESA and symbolic of the ideals of our organization. It is a diamond in shape and is inherently precious to those who wear it.

Local projects are U R Special, Free to Live, Salvation Army, No Boundaries, Int’l., and Boys’ Ranch Town. State projects are Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur, Oklahoma and Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Our national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

If you would like to join this energetic group of ladies, please call Jacci Gantz at 405-922-5954.

Jacque Cantrel, awards chairman for Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Gamma Zeta chapter, presents new member Debbie Scott her jewel pin.

A new election

By Steve Gust

What would modern life be without conspiracy theories?

I read an interesting one last week from Ann Coulter, who is something of a lighting rod herself.

She believes the recent criminal indictment against Donald Trump is being done by Democrats to make sure he becomes the GOP nominee for president in 2024.

I told you it was a little wild.

Coulter believes Trump is probably the best candidate for Democrats to have on the ballot. She believes that Trump does wonders to rally liberals to the polls. She might be right.

She points to the lack of success in the past three elections for the GOP. She has a good point.

I’m not so sure Trump is to blame for all of that.

It appears to me that Democrats have shifted their election strategy completely in the past few election

cycles, ‘It used toi be that campaigns had a lot of speeches and rallies for candidates. People would listen and then make up their mind who they wanted in office.

But anymore most people are already decided.

It just becomes a matter of getting those people to the polls or making sure they send in a ballot.

The Democrats appear to have excelled at this ground game. Not only that, but Democrats are putting up fights in elections they shouldn’t. One was here in Oklahoma last election when they matched Joy Hoffmeister up against Gov. Kevin Stitt. Joy was well known to the voters.

The Democrats knew that a regular run of the mill of the candidate, would probably be routed.

For a while there, Joy looked like she might have a chance. But the incumbent governor easily prevailed.

Still, the Democrats proved that they weren’t going to waste any opportunity.

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

Lankford opposes Biden health mandate

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) along with Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Representative Debbie Lesko (AZ-08), and a bicameral group of lawmakers demanded the withdrawal of a pending Biden Administration proposed rule, which would eliminate moral exemptions that protect individuals and entities who object to providing health insurance coverage of contraceptives.

Joining Lankford and Hyde-Smith in sending the letter were Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Mike Braun (RIN).

“As Members of Congress, we have a unique constitutional interest and oversight role in ensuring regulations governing the ACA comport with the law and congressional intent, and do not exceed their congressional mandates,” the lawmakers wrote.

“While appropriately maintaining the religious exemption rule, the Proposed Rule would, however, eliminate the moral exemption rule, which exempts nonprofits and for-profit entities without publicly traded

ownership who object based on their moral convictions to providing some or all forms of contraceptive coverage. The Proposed Rule would subject nonprofit organizations, small businesses, and other covered entities to crippling fines unless they violate their fundamental moral convictions,” the lawmakers continued.

The letter argues that the rule should be withdrawn because it would force individuals and entities, including secular pro-life organizations, to provide contraceptive coverage that violates their sincerely held moral convictions, including their convictions about human dignity and the sanctity of human life. The rule creates a new program that will divert exchange user fees in a way that will benefit the abortion industry financially and, in bypassing the appropriations process, deprive Congress of the opportunity to establish appropriate guardrails.

““The contraceptive mandate has led to more than a decade of legal challenges, including several Supreme Court decisions, due to the Obama Administration’s efforts to impose this mandate on nonprofit and for-profit entities who object to some or all forms of contraceptive coverage based on sincerely held religious beliefs or moral objections,” the letter asserts.

The letter urges the Departments of Health and Human Ser vices, Labor, and Treasury to maintain the religious exemption from the contraceptive mandate, and reject mandating accommodations that still burden religious exercise, noting that this exemption is legally required under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and the First Amendment.

The letter has the support of CatholicVote, Heritage Action, Students for Life Action, Concerned Women for America LAC, and the Ethics and Public Policy Center’s HHS Accountability Project.

Lankford continues to lead the Senate in protecting the lives of the unborn and protecting Americans’ conscience rights. Lankford recently led his colleagues in filing a public comment letter demanding greater implementation and enforcement of all of the statutory conscience protections enacted by Congress, as reflected in the previous rule issued under the Trump Administration.

A look at health care and human services

By Rep. Collin Duel

First, I want to send my condolences to everyone impacted by the Logan County fires.

I also want to thank the firefighters and first responders for their help – we couldn't do it without you.

If the fires impacted you, the American Red Cross is offering help to find shelter and provide assistance. Another resource available is Heartline Oklahoma.

Now, I want to discuss health care and human services in Oklahoma. House Republicans are committed to working with state leaders and experts to improve health care outcomes and human services for all Oklahomans.

Over the past five years, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) has received over $1.5 billion, and the Department of Human Services (DHS) has received over $3.5 billion. The House also enacted

several policies to improve access to care and prescriptions.

DHS recently announced that the first families from the Developmental Disabilities Services waitlist, which provides resources to people with a primary diagnosis of intellectual disabilities through home and community-based waivers, will begin receiving aid following the Legislature's historic $32.5 million appropriation.

The effort to eliminate the DDS waitlist has been an all-hands-on-deck effort for many years.

Some families have been waiting over a decade to receive this support, but were stuck in limbo due to a backlog caused by a lack of state funding. Finally, thanks to last year's appropriation, more and more Oklahomans with developmental disabilities will soon receive the relief they need to live a life of dignity and ensure these families have every tool available.

House Republicans will continue to work with the governor and agency heads to identify best practices for our kids, our families and our state.

Last, I presented SB398 to the Veterans and Mil-

Letters to the Editor policy

itary Affairs Committee, and it passed. It states that the Oklahoma Department of Veteran Affairs will assist the United States Department of Defense's SkillBridge program for Oklahoma Employers and transitioning service members.

SkillBridge is a Defense Department (DOD) program for Service members transitioning out of the military that offers employment training, internship and apprenticeship opportunities.

Last week was the deadline to hear bills in subcommittee. I plan to keep you informed of all the passing through committee next week!

I am thankful and honored that the constituents of House District 31 have entrusted me with the responsibility of serving in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any concerns at 405-557-7350 or collin.duel@okhouse.gov.

Rep. Collin Duel, a Republican, serves District 31 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which covers Logan and Oklahoma counties.

Reagan quotes

The following are quotes from President Reagan.

‘If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under.’

‘Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.’

Steve Gust

Iris Club Expo & Plant Sale on April 29

The Edmond Iris and Garden Society will host its annual Iris Expo and Plant Sale from 10:00 – 3:00 pm, Saturday, April 29, 2023 at Yay on Broadway, 502

N. Broadway in Edmond.  Admission is free.  The Iris Expo will have a dazzling display of a wide variety of iris that bloom and thrive in Oklahoma.  Iris on display will include dwarf, median and tall bearded.  In conjunction with the Iris Expo, a limited number of potted iris and perennials will be available for sale.  Proceeds go to Horticulture Scholarships at Oklahoma State University, upkeep of public Iris Gardens in Edmond by the Society, and Society expenses. For information, search Edmond Iris and Garden Society on Facebook.

SF High School instructor receives a teaching grant

Fund for Teachers announced the names of 396 teachers to receive $1.7 million in grants for experiential learning across North America and around the world. Included among these exemplary educators is Hailey Wansick from Edmond Santa Fe High School!

Ms. Wansick will explore the culture, landscape, and history of fairy tales and folklore in England, Germany, and France to create a deeper understanding of their origins and importance, promote excitement for and interest in reading, and enhance library collections.

“Teachers are the backbone of our society,” said Karen Eckhoff, executive director. “They educate, encourage, and empower the children who will shape our future. And in our post-pandemic, school shooting society, their role is even more amplified. There can be no better investment.”

Fund for Teachers grants are nationally unique in that they invite teachers to pursue any topic, anywhere -- individually or as a team of two or more. This flexibility represents trust in teachers’ professionalism and capacity for meeting the diverse needs of each classroom and student.

A complete list of 2023 FFT Fellows can be found on the Fund for Teachers website at fundforteachers.org.

Since 2001, Fund for Teachers has invested $36 million in more than 9,500 educators, transforming grants into growth for teachers and their students. In addition to its summer fellowships, the organization also re-invests in its Fellows by awarding Innovation

Circle Grants to deepen learning around a topic (this year “Centering Students”) -- first independently during the summer, then throughout the fall with other Fellows and led by a Fellow. Over the past two decades, FFT Fellows have pursued new knowledge and insights in 170 different countries on all seven continents, with the majority remaining in North America. Visit www.fundforteachers.org for more information.

Those pictured to welcome visitors to the Iris Expo are: Chris Leavitt, Leonard Murphy, Pat Bourgeois, Dave Mleko, President Anita Schlaht, and Vice President Mary Jo Fortuna.

Hailey Wansick

UCO students win big at competition

The Oklahoma Broadcast Education Association (OBEA) recently honored University of Central Oklahoma professional media students at its annual student broadcast competition with 24 awards for studentproduced audio/radio, video/television and new media broadcasts.

“We had another great showing, and we are proud of our student’s work,” said David Nelson, Ed.D., professor of mass communication and OBEA president.

In the audio category under the direction of Nelson, Central students won the following awards.

Radio News

First place – Kevin Blair (Guthrie, Oklahoma)

Second place – Kelly Merka (Mustang, Oklahoma)

Third place – Georgia Jones (Edmond, Oklahoma)

Entertainment/Talk

First place – Adam Thomas (Owasso, Oklahoma) with the podcast “Stage and Screen”

Radio Personality

First place – Majia Cottrell (Oklahoma City)

Third place – Emily Grim (Perry, Oklahoma) with the radio show “Women in Music”

Audio Sports Magazine/Talk

First place – Bradie Gray (Enid, Oklahoma) and Jackson Rowbottom (Tuttle, Oklahoma) with the podcast “The Long Ball”

Audio Promo

First place – Logan Gassett (Bethany, Oklahoma) with “Fly on the Wall Podcast Promo”

Second place – Jocelyn Schifferdecker (Tulsa, Oklahoma) with “Don’t Stick to the Status Quo”

Personality Talent Reel

Third place – Jocelyn Schifferdecker

Audio Narrative

Third place – Logan Gassett with “Dig, Dig”

In the interactive media category, under the direction of Desiree Hill, Ph.D., assistant professor of mass

communication at UCO, Central students won the following awards.

Multimedia Journalism

First place – UCentral News with “Snow Storm”

Second place (tied) – Kendall Walton (Choctaw, Oklahoma) with “Power Outage”

Second place (tied) – Eden Jones (San Antonio) with “Oklahoma Hospitals and Abortion”

Hard News

Second place – Jonathan Richardson (Edmond, Oklahoma) with “OKC Fire”

Third place – Eden Jones with “Abortion in Oklahoma”

Directing

First place – Ben Anderson (Edmond, Oklahoma) and Trey Guzman (Tulsa, Oklahoma) with “UCentral Election 2022”

Newscast

Second place – Miracle Garrett (Tulsa, Oklahoma) and Dylan Steiber (Chandler, Oklahoma) with “UCentral News”

Station Programming

Third place – UCentral News

In the video category, under the direction of Milos Ajdinovic, assistant professor of mass communication at UCO, and Mark Scott, assistant professor of mass communication at UCO, Central students won the following awards.

Documentary Long

First place – Kaleb Gonzales (Blair, Oklahoma) with “Ayudame”

Documentary Short

First place – Kaleb Gonzales with “Val the Boxer”

Third place – Kelly Merka with “Second Responder”

Informational Video

Third place – Chris Lomelin (Laredo, Texas) and Collin Carpenter (Edmond, Oklahoma) with “Wings” Sports Magazine/Talk

Second place – Trystan Pipkin (Choctaw, Oklahoma) and Payton Scott (Sand Springs, Oklahoma) with “Inside Broncho Basketball with Coach Bob Hoffman”

Several Oklahoma universities and colleges participated in the OBEA student competition, which generated nearly 230 entries and was judged by media professionals from the Oklahoma City, Tulsa and surrounding regional media markets. Award recipients were recognized at the annual OBEA conference at the River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Oklahoma, March 30.

For more information, contact Nelson at 405-974-2584 or dnelson7@uco.edu.

Oklahoma Broadcast Education Association (OBEA) recently honored University of Central Oklahoma professional media students at its annual student broadcast competition with 24 awards for student-produced audio/radio, video/television and new media broadcasts. Pictured, from left to right, Jamie Hammock, a professional media major from Moore; Maddie Fisher, a professional media major from Oklahoma City; Kevin Blair, a professional media major from Guthrie; Hayden Smith, a professional media major from Edmond; Lauren Henry, a professional media major from Yukon; Jocelyn Schifferdecker, a professional media major from Tulsa, Oklahoma; Eden Jones, a professional media major from San Antonio; Logan Wood, a professional media major from Stillwater; Tedarius Jones, a professional media major from Moore; Micah Chandler, a professional media major from Edmond; and, Isabel Contreras, a professional media major from Duncan.

Diana Pate honored for generosity

Champion of Character recipient, Diana Pate was honored for her generosity in a short presentation at her downtown business, Silverleaf Gems on Friday, April 7th.

Diana’s daughter, Stephanie Carel, nominated her for the award. Stephanie said, “I have grown up my whole life following in her footsteps and knowing that giving is part of what you do.”

Stephanie saw her mother as a shining example of generosity. She and her sisters, Sondra Reid and Jackie Allen, observed Diana as she cared for others, giving of her time, talents, and resources. When someone was ill, Diana took soup and made herself available to drive them to their doctors’ appointments.

Diana is a long time Edmond resi-

dent and a familiar face in downtown Edmond. She worked at the Sears catalog store when Stephanie and Sondra were youngsters. Her husband, Jack worked for Sears in OKC during that time.

In 1994, Sears transferred Jack to Fayetteville, Arkansas. Diana worked in the healthcare industry there until she was hit by a car. She suffered life threatening injuries. It changed her life. Diana found herself the recipient of generosity from others. Family members came to Arkansas to help cook and take care of her and her family.

Through the rehabilitation process, the nurses encouraged her to work with beads. They loved her work and

See Diana, Page 16

Former Las Vegas dancer will be in Edmond to sign her book

Writer Judy Jones, with family in Edmond, will be in town next week to sign and talk about her book, “A Lot of World To See.”

In the late 1950s, she auditioned, and was hired to be a dancer at the famed Sands Hotel in Las Vegas. It was at the Sands, where she was exposed to the glory days of old Las Vegas, which included dance shows and concerts from legendary performers such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. — better known to the world as part of the informal Rat Pack entertainers.

Judy, now 82, looks back on this

Has stories on Rat Pack stars

interesting time in her book, plus her attempts to travel to Paris.

She also went to UCO one semester. The book signing will be Friday, April 21 at the Around the Corner Restaurant in downtown Edmond. It will be from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m.

One of her family is Bob Linn, who grew up in Edmond during the 1960s and is anxiously awaiting the visit from his cousin.

“Judy has an interesting story to tell and we’re looking forward to her visit,” he said.

Diana Pate with Stephanie Carel, right.

Review of the movie

‘Air’

Film offers audience something new

By George Gust

As we stand on the precipice of a summer movie season full of decades long franchises; we’ve got a new Fast & Furious, more Marvel & DC, another legacy Indiana Jones, and hey even the Transformers are back in the mix! All these tentpole classic summer movies will aim to be THE event movie of the month, week, or season, but this is April and two Hollywood luminary Boston bros (Director Ben Affleck and star Matt Damon) have the temerity to release the lowest stakes movie of the year. “Air” is an energetic and comedic film that no one really asked for but is ultimately a movie that simultaneously appeals to sneaker fashionistas and basketball fans alike.

“Air” follows the history of shoe salesman Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon) and how he led Nike in its pursuit of the greatest athlete in the history of basketball: Michael Jordan.

While you wouldn’t necessarily think of “Air” as a comedy in the traditional sense (there’s no outward ‘jokes’ that are being pitched to the audience and the ratio of pie to face is 0!) there is a natural comedic tone to the film that feels like charismatic actors given the opportunity and space to have a

good time reliving a pivotal time period in their career and lives. And as the ultimate resolution of the film is no mystery for anyone who lived through the mass cultural hysteria surrounding the career of Michael Jordan, the filmmakers were able to build enough tension for the characters at hand to engage the audience more than you would expect for a behind the scenes showbiz kind of film.

“Air” has an immensely talented cast and is such an enjoyable ensemble of familiar character actors. From the top, Damon is enjoyable as the main propulsive character in the film and was able to

bring his movie star charisma with a touch of inspiration thrown in for good measure. The supporting cast is also phenomenal with Jason Bateman adding in his fun and signature comedic delivery, but the presence of Viola Davis as Jordan’s mother was a scene stealer every time she was on screen. Davis was asked to do the kind of performance that she’s been known for, and in this film, she is pitch perfect for the role.

Overall, “Air” is a wonderfully refreshing movie that knows exactly what kind of movie it wants to be and who the audience is. With Affleck in the directing chair “Air” has brilliantly brisk pacing, a breezy tone and a fun sense of late 80’s nostalgia from the needle drops to the mullet/windbreaker costume combinations. “Air’ is worthy of checking out in theaters before we gear up for another barrage of bigger, louder, franchise led summer movie blockbusters.

“Air” is rated R for strong language throughout.

3.3 out of 5 stars

To reach George Gust for a comment on this review, please e-mail gust.george@gmail.com

Answers on Page 19

Philharmonic releases upcoming lineup

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic celebrates its 35th season with a magnificent new lineup of concerts and musical magic.

“We want to fill the hall, to be meaningful in Oklahoma,” said OKCPHIL Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate. “We want to be fun and create something in the city where we are all united. It sounds very simple, but it’s true. Doesn’t matter what race, color or ideology; we are all one, and we celebrate that through creativity. In our upcoming season, it’s all about the music. A joyful noise, if you will. And we want to celebrate that with our OKCPHIL family.”

The Opening Night Gala will be Saturday, Sept. 9, 8 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall, combining the annual Maestro’s Ball with the season opener of the Inasmuch Foundation Classics series. Ukrainian violinist Anastasiya Petryshak performs as part of an allTchaikovsky program.

“Anastasiya is just one of two amazing Ukrainian soloists joining us this season,” Mickelthwate said.

Shows, Page 19

Crossword Puzzle

‘Ben Affleck directs Matt Damon and Viola Davis in the behind the scenes story of one of the most iconic and profitable sports marketing campaigns of all time in “‘Air.’

A Grand Opening For Primary Health Partners

Primary Health Partners recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand opening at 15318 N May, Suite B.

Primary Health Partners is an Oklahoma based direct primary care (DPC) practice, with locations all over the metro area. PHP W Edmond is their 7th location, and home to two board-certified physicians - Dr. Tanna Shaw (Internal Medicine) and Dr. Blake John (Family Medicine/Obesity Medicine). The DPC model enables providers to take on fewer patients and dedicate more time to each of them. Patients pay a very affordable set monthly membership fee, for access to their physician when they need it. Take insurance out of the equation, and treat the patient based on what they need… not what insurance dictates. By eliminating the typical barriers of getting primary care they have created a model that patients can get in the same day or next day, have an unhurried personal visit, have access afterhours or when they need care, and have a predictable cost with no copays or surprise bills. Add in wholesale pricing on lab and pharmacy, and what’s not to love? Come find out why more patients are fleeing the traditional health systems, for more personalized, convenient and comprehensive care! To learn more about Primary Health Partners, visit www.primaryhealthpartners.com.

Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

bought her creations. When they moved back to Edmond in 2001, Diana and Sondra went into business together, opening the Bead Attic, which they operated until 2005. The next year, Diana and Sondra, joined by Stephanie, opened Silver Leaf Gems. They’ve been working together designing and making custom jewelry since.

Diana is generous with her time by volunteering to help with Downtown Edmond projects in whatever way she can. She put up flags for homecoming one year. She helps with the Arts Festival. In previous years she painted buildings, made posters, and distributed them. She also, made deliveries, helped set up and take things down.

Diana first saw generosity exemplified by her mother, JoAnn McLaughlin. Her mother often shopped for older women in their community who couldn’t shop for themselves. On Thanksgiving she took food to others or invited them over.

Diana said, “I’d rather give or help than get. It’s how we were raised. It makes you feel good to be able to do stuff for others.”

Diana grew up and graduated from high school in Orlando, Oklahoma).

She went to beauty school and became a beautician. In 1968 she enrolled at Central State university, where she met her husband, Jack. They’ve been married for 53 years.

On behalf of the City of Edmond and the Character Council of Edmond, Diana Pate was honored as a Champion of Character for exemplifying the character trait of generosity, defined by Character First as, “carefully managing my resources so I can freely give to those in need.”

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

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

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

Farmer’s Market back in action on Saturday

For Wayne Whitmore, the Edmond Farmer’s Market is a family affair.

“My children grew up going to the farmer’s market, and now their children are out there with us,” said Whitmore, who operates the familyowned Whitmore Farms.

Whitmore and family – and many, many more – will be there again April 15, when the Edmond Farmer’s Market celebrates its 20th season.

Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. – except May 6, when the facility is closed for the annual Arts Festival –at the Festival Market Place, 26 W. 1st Street, its home since 2005, the market brings Oklahoma-grown produce and locally produced artisan crafts in an open-air setting that is family friendly.

“The best thing, from a consumer standpoint, is the market provides the community with a good, locally grown source of fresh produce,” Whitmore said, “and all the money stays in Oklahoma, supporting local farms, local businesses and the community.”

All 54 slots in the pavilion are already accounted for, said Farmer’s Market Coordinator Emily Young, and the diverse menu of items and options reflects how the market has evolved as it’s grown.

“This year, we have a really good variety of produce, and we have some new options,” Young said. “Along with the produce we traditionally see, there is a really good variety of nurseries with a wide variety of gardening plants – vegetables and fruits and flowers. We’ve never had fruit trees before, but we will have them this year. We also will have dairy products available every week we are open.

“You will still be able to find cheese and eggs – even more vendors will have eggs available this year – as well as milk, bread, and the proteins you need to make dinner throughout the week. There also will be coffee and, for the grownups, beer and wine selections. We really try to embrace the idea of one-stop shopping. None of our customers will need to leave us to go find goods and products anywhere else.”

Whitmore was part of the market during its informal beginnings in 1988. Eventually, the market grew to the point that the City of Edmond was asked to step in and manage the market. Beginning in 2001, former City of Edmond architect David Odle grabbed that opportunity with passion and enthusiasm, and started the path to where it is today.

The market became part of the City’s Parks & Recreation department in 2004, and the Festival Market Place location opened in 2005, with the pavilion dedicated to Odle.

Today, visitors come to enjoy the experience and choose from the variety of locally grown vegetables and fruits, meats – including goat and lamb meat this season – and handcraft specialty foods, as well as a diverse selection of unique handmade soaps, jewelry and other artisan crafts.

“We are at 100 percent capacity for vendors, and the footprint is growing,” Young said. “We are using micro-vendors as well – it’s a collaborative approach that lets vendors partner with other vendors that have products that complement each other. That showcases how easy it is to shop at the market exclusively, and how easy it is to shop and prepare meals for your family using everything you can find at the market.”

Also, this year, there will be a focus on education, with presentations on things like freezing and canning foods to “help stretch seasonal produce so it can last longer for you at home,” Young said.

“In the economic environment of today, the Farmer’s Market is quickly becoming an economic and efficient way to feed your family,” Young said, “and to do that with fresh, locally grown products that also support your neighbors.”

The market is registered with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry and emphasizes Oklahoma produce. It meets all license requirements of the Oklahoma Department of Health.

“All our vendors must have the appropriate licensing and certifications and insurance,” Young said. “There are a lot of compliance requirements we follow.”

For Whitmore, the continued growth is something he’s enjoyed experiencing firsthand.

“There weren’t always farmer’s markets in Oklahoma,” he said. “When we first started, they were pretty much unheard of around Oklahoma. They struggled sometimes because there wasn’t the variety you could find at grocery stores. But, as they have grown, more and more farmers and producers have come out and they have gotten more and more popular over the years. When we started, there was more produce than customers, and now there are times when we have more customers than produce.”

Strong showing at national event

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Business Professional Sales team recently took fourth place at the National Collegiate Sales Competition (NCSC) in Kennesaw, Georgia. This is Central’s highest-ranking achievement at the NCSC in the team’s history.

“We are very fortunate to have extremely talented students competing on a national stage with exceptional mentoring from our professional selling faculty,” said Jeremy Oller, Ph.D., J.D., dean of the UCO College of Business.

“Combined with the support from the Bob Mills Professional Selling Center, I believe we have consistently established ourselves as one of the premier professional selling programs in the nation.”

The competition gives students an opportunity to put their skills to the test through role-play events, a sales management case, speed-selling

UCO College of Business students

pitches and community involvement.

Nearly 150 students, representing 72 colleges and universities across the country, participated in the competition.

The Central Professional Sales team includes Mattison Bullard, a senior professional selling and marketing major from Edmond, Oklahoma; Cooper Crick, a senior professional selling and marketing major from Venice, Florida; Skylar Daniels, a senior professional selling and marketing major from Edmond, Oklahoma; Connor Benn, a junior professional selling major from Meeker, Oklahoma; and, Emily Goad, Ph.D., team coach and assistant professor of marketing at Central.

In addition to the team’s success, Bullard and

Historic highs continue for Oklahoma revenues

Gross Receipts to the state Treasury paint a picture of a sound but moderating Oklahoma economy as total collections climb to a new high, State Treasurer Todd Russ announced.

The 12-month record total of $17.64 billion is $1.77 billion or 11.2 percent more than the year before. However, when reviewing the monthly comparison, the difference between March and last March of $16.6 million or 1.2 percent is the lowest level of growth seen since June 2022.

“The results continue to reflect an expanding Oklahoma economy,” said Treasurer Russ. “With that said, rising interest rates are adversely impacting economic activity for both consumers and businesses.”

Other indicators

As measured by the Consumer Price Index, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the annual inflation rate at 6.0 percent in February. The energy component of the index increased 5.2 percent over the last year, and the food index remained high at 9.5 percent.

The U.S. jobless rate was 3.6 percent in February, up by 0.2 of a percentage point from the prior month. Oklahoma’s employment numbers continue to show strength. In February, the rate was 3.0 percent, a decrease of 0.1 percent from January.

Regional economic trends remain positive. For March, the Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions Index for the

nine-state region stayed above growth neutral at 50.8. The Oklahoma component of the index rose to 55.3, increasing from 54.9 the previous month.

March collections

March 2023 collections compared to gross receipts from March 2022 show:

Total monthly gross collections are $1.4 billion, up by $16.6 million, or 1.2 percent.

Gross income tax collections, a combination of individual and corporate income taxes, generated $500.2 million, up by $10.2 million, or 2.1 percent.

Individual income tax collections total $431.5 million, an increase of $11.4 million, or 2.7 percent.

Corporate collections are $68.7 million, down by $1.3 million, or 1.8 percent.

Combined sales and use tax collections, including remittances on behalf of cities and counties, total $556.0 million – up by $29.8 million – or 5.7 percent.

Sales tax collections are $470.1 million, an increase of $19.6 million, or 4.3 percent.

Use tax receipts, collected on out-of-state purchases including internet sales, generated $85.8 million, an increase of $10.2 million, or 13.5 percent.

Gross production taxes on oil and natural gas total $156.6 million, a decrease of $8.7 million, or 5.2 percent.

Motor vehicle taxes produced $79.2 million, down by $3.3 mil-

See Revenues, Page 18

Crick placed in the top 16 overall at the competition, with both students competing in the semi-finals.

Last November, the team placed third overall and first in the role-play category at the International Collegiate Sales Competition (ICSC) in Orlando, Florida.

“The continued success at national competitions reflect the hard work and dedication of these students, along with the high quality of UCO’s professional selling program on a national stage,” Goad said.

“We are one of very few schools to place in the top five at both national competitions.”

For more information about Central’s professional sales program, contact Goad at 405-9742805 or egoad@uco.edu.

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

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Business Professional Sales team recently took fourth place at the National Collegiate Sales Competition (NCSC) in Kennesaw, Georgia. This is Central’s highest-ranking achievement at the NCSC in the team’s history. Pictured, left to right, Connor Benn, a junior professional selling major from Meeker, Oklahoma; Cooper Crick, a senior professional selling and marketing major from Venice, Florida; Mattison Bullard, a senior professional selling and marketing major from Edmond ; Skylar Daniels, a senior professional selling and marketing major from Edmond; Bob Kaiser, instructor for the College of Business at Central; and, Emily Goad, Ph.D., team coach and assistant professor of marketing at Central.

Revenues.

lion, or 4.1 percent.

Other collections composed of some 60 different sources produced $107.7 million, a decrease of $11.4 million, or 9.5 percent.

Twelve-month collections

Combined gross receipts for the past 12 months compared to the prior period show:

Gross revenue totals $17.64 billion. That is $1.77 billion, or 11.2 percent, above collections from the previous 12 months.

Gross income taxes generated $6.1 billion, an increase of $655.1 million, or 12.0 percent.

Individual income tax collections total $5.1 billion, up by $566.7 million, or 12.5 percent.

Corporate collections are $1.0 billion, an increase of $88.4 million, or 9.6 percent.

Combined sales and use taxes are $6.98 billion, an increase of $491.8 million, or 7.6 percent.

Gross sales tax receipts total

$5.9 billion, up by $380.9 million, or 6.9 percent.

Use tax collections generated $1.08 billion, an increase of $110.9 million, or 11.5 percent.

Oil and gas gross production tax collections produced $2.02 billion, up by $665.4 million, or 48.0 percent.

Motor vehicle collections total $880.0 million, a decrease of $4.5 million, or 0.5 percent.

Other sources generated $1.65 billion, down by $27.7 million, or 1.6 percent.

About Gross Receipts to the Treasury

The monthly Gross Receipts to the Treasury report, developed by the State Treasurer’s Office, provides a timely and broad view of the state’s economy.

It is released in conjunction with the General Revenue Fund report from the Office of Management and Enterprise Services,

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

“Anastasiya made her debut as a soloist at the age of 15, and regularly performs with Andrea Bocelli. Pianist Dmytro Choni is a bronze medal winner of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. He will appear in our October classics concert featuring music from Bach and Liszt, and the iconic ‘Symphony Fantastique’ of Hector Berlioz.”

Other Classics concerts feature Grammy Award winner Mark O’Conner, taking a deep dive into our Americana and folk roots, and Canterbury Voices will join us for “Glorious Life.”

“This season we will celebrate the music of Brahms, and then in another concert present the majestic tone poem ‘Pines of Rome’” Mickelthwate said. “Our climactic season finale will be our semistaged version of the opera ‘Tosca.’ There is so much going on in our Classics Series, and we cannot wait to share with you this beautiful music.”

The Chickasaw Nation Pops Series debuts November 3 & 4, with Golden Globe-nominated composer Brian Byrne presenting a Hollywood-themed spectacular.

“Brian was with us last season, and this year he’s bringing us all the red-carpet glitz and glamour you would expect from La La Land. An OKCPHIL favorite, Mariachi Los Camperos, will perform next season, and we will have an all-new musical production called ‘Heroes and Villains’ in a breathtaking Cirque-style musical production.”

The Holidays will be truly spectacular, Mickelthwate said, with the all-new “An OKCPHIL Christmas with Sandi Patty & Take 6.”

“Sandi is one of our local hometown favorites, and she’s also a multiple Grammy Award winner,” he added. “And Take 6 is an a cappella Grammywinning gospel group integrating jazz with spiritual and inspirational lyrics. We have a local surprise element too we think will make this the hit of the Oklahoma City holiday season!”

Capping the Pops season will be an OKCPHIL appearance by the legendary Bernadette Peters.

“This will be so much fun,” Mickelthwate said. “Bernadette has done everything—Broadway, film and television. She has won Tony Awards and Golden Globes and is regarded as the foremost in-

terpreter of the works of Stephen Sondheim. She starred in ‘Sunday in the Park with George’ and ‘Annie Get Your Gun,’ and most recently in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ We are so fortunate to see her perform with our amazing musicians right on our own stage!

“Oklahoma City should be known as a breeding ground for fun, for creativity,” Mickelthwate added. “That’s my thing. And that’s what the OKCPHIL is all about.”

A complete list of concerts as well as other OKCPHIL-related projects can be found at okcphil.org.