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.
City touts Arcadia Lake attractions See Page 4
FRIDAY, JUNE 21 Partly
SATURDAY, JUNE 22
Partly Cloudy
SUNDAY, JUNE 23
Partly Cloudy
If you’re keeping score at home, then you know this is the first day of summer. And does anything say summer as much as Edmond’s own patriotic celebration, which is again upon us?
In Edmond, the entire patriotic grandeur is wrapped up in a neat package called LibertyFest. This year we’ll be marking the 52nd edition of the festival, which draws raves from all over Oklahoma, as well as the nation.
LibertyFest is comprised of many events, which lead up to the grand ole day itself — July 4.
On that Thursday there will be the annual massive major parade in downtown Edmond starting at 9 a.m. This year Mayor Darrel Davis will be parade marshal and there will be dozens of entries.
And then that night there will be a huge fireworks show at around 9:30 p.m. at Hafer Park.
If you need help remembering those times, you’re in luck. This week we put out our annual and official LibertyFest program and event guide. It’s a 40-page guide that lists all the events and times and features the people who help put on this wonderful effort.
The guide is inserted in this week’s edition. Please keep it, read it and consider supporting the guide’s advertisers.
So stay informed. On Page 2, Life & Leisure Publisher Ray Hibbard also has his thoughts on LibertyFest and this years guide.
Happy summer and happy LibertyFest, Edmond!
Our Edmond community is thrilled to host the biggest and best 4th of July festival here in Edmond, Okla. It is the 52nd Anniversary of LibertyFest and events start on June 27th with the LibertyFest concert in the park at the University of Central Oklahoma. It is an honor that Edmond Life & Leisure has once again been selected to produce this official program for LibertyFest and it is inserted in this week’s newspaper. You can also read it online by going to our web site, www.edmondlifeandleiure.com. We look forward to seeing you at all the magnificent events for this fantastic celebration.
This is one of those times during the year that makes me think how quickly the year has gone by. It seems like just last month we were celebrating the birth of our country. LibertyFest, for those of you new to the community, is not a one-day event but it happens over 10 days with a multitude of events
We also owe a giant thank you to all our sponsors for this year’s event. Most have been supporting LibertyFest for decades. They make it possible for most events to occur without charge to our guests for these many events. A special new group of volunteers has stepped up to help keep the tradition alive and we hope you will consider being a volunteer for next year.
Edmond’s July 4th Festival is a non-profit 501(c)3 operation made up of individual volunteers from the Edmond area. Its purpose is to produce a series of family-oriented events around the 4th of July to celebrate the birthday of this great nation and the heritage of Oklahoma. As the host city of LibertyFest, Edmond highlights a series of events that help enhance the quality of life in Edmond, show pride in the community, support for non-profit and civic organizations, and provide educational opportunities.
The big heroes for LibertyFest are all the volunteers. They contribute hundreds of hours to making this celebration easy for Edmond to enjoy. The work and planning for
LibertyFest events go on year-round. Volunteers take time away from their families and other responsibilities to make sure we all have a pleasant and safe experience at these events. They are all folks who love their community and our country. It is truly a labor of love for our LibertyFest volunteers.
Last year was a pivotal year for LibertyFest. After the 2022 LibertyFest all the committee chairs who had been organizing the big event decided since they had just finished the 50th year anniversary, it was time to retire. Most had been volunteering for 30 years or more. Being out in the heat all day is hard for anyone but when you are in your 80s I assume it is even harder. They deserved a break.
Our friend and longtime LibertyFest volunteer June Carwright assured me she would stay on and walk us through the process of getting new committee chairs on board. She was truly Miss. LibertyFest and knew all there was to know about every event. This calmed me down until God had other plans for our June and called her home far too
---- Police booking
early. I think there is a saying that if you think God does not have a sense of humor, tell him your plans. This left us on our own and I was not sure we could pull it off. I did not want to be the newspaper guy who let LibertyFest go away. It is also true that God provides.
For 2023 we had to recruit an entire new group of committee volunteers. Headed by then president of LibertyFest, Eriech Tapia, the group not only got things organized and happening, but they took the workings of the organization into the new millennium and modernized it all. It has been fantastic.
Even though Tapia graduated with his doctorate and moved to Washington, D.C. he has continued to volunteer and help with so much. A giant thank you to him and all the committee members for their hard work and stepping up to the plate to fill some big shoes.
The theme for this year’s parade is “Year of the Volunteer.” It seems appropriate and I hope you will consider becoming a volunteer, especially at the committee level. We will probably not see chairs stay in place for 30 or more years. We are a bigger community and people move in and out these days. Also, we need back-up volunteers to collaborate with current committee chairs. You never know when a chair might not be able to do the job next year and it would be great to have a back-up chair for every committee just as insurance that each event will take place.
Here is the order of events:
The concert in the park is Thursday, June 27th on the UCO campus adjacent to Mitchell Hall. Back again as band conductor is the famed Dr. Brian Lamb, Directory of the University of Central Oklahoma Bands. The event is free, and ice is served after the concert.
Annual LibertyFest Rodeo will be June 28th and 29th starting at 8 p.m. This is one of my favorite events. Nothing beats a local hometown rodeo. It is being held in the Carl Benne Arena at 300 N Kelly. There is a small charge for this event, but it is well worth it. Bull Riding, Bareback Riding, Barrel Racing and all the usual stuff. My favorite thing to
do is to stay after the rodeo and watch them run slack. If you know, what slack is you are a real cowboy. E-mail me at ray@edmondpaper.com if you think you know what it is, and I will pick a winner and come up with a prize. You are on your cowboy honor to not google it.
The car show and parkfest is at Hafer Park on June 29th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tons of fun for car buffs and the kids. The public is invited for free and lots of activities for the kids.
Liberty Sprint Run was just added last year. It is on June 30th and check-in is at 7 a.m. in Mitch Park. The 5K benefits the Edmond Veteran’s Memorial project planned for Bickham-Rudkin Park. Songs & Stripes: Big Band Show at the Edmond History Museum on July 3rd with two shows. One is from 5:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. and the second is from 7:30 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. You can buy tickets in advance or get them at the door for a slightly larger charge. There are forty tickets reserved free for active military or veterans, but you must RSVP and reserve in advance. It is the big band sound and patriotic songs that we love so much.
Three big events on July 4th. This is the only day that most communities celebrate but we start way in advance in Edmond and that is why LibertyFest is one of the best celebrations in the country.
We have the giant parade that starts at 9 a.m. in downtown Edmond. During the parade there will be a VIBES art event put on by the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond and it will be an art market downtown.
Then the big one, the LibertyFest 52nd Annual LibertyFest Fireworks that evening located at Hafer Park and should begin around 9:30.
We wish you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July and hope you will join us in our Edmond LibertyFest Celebration. It is certainly a fitting tribute to our fine nation. It is one of the best celebrations in our great United States. Our family looks forward to seeing you along the parade route and at all the other events.
(Ray Hibbard may be reached for comment at ray@edmondpaper.com.)
“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.
Last week Governor Kevin Stitt signed the budget for the state’s 2025 fiscal year into law. After giving effect to elimination of the grocery tax, the largest single tax cut to delivered to taxpayers in state history, this budget authorized state expenditures at a reduced level relative to last year while delivering on strategic investments in infrastructure and efforts to further the Governor’s pro-business, pro-family policies.
"This was the most transparent budget process in state history, and that is something to be proud of," said Governor Stitt. "Every Oklahoman had the opportunity to have a front row seat to the negotiations that took place and to see how their tax dollars were spent. The state has taken a step forward today, but our work is unfinished. I will continue to fight for more tax cuts and keeping a lid on the growth in government in Oklahoma."
a legacy of transparency. I look forward to working with their successors and expanding on those relationships and the progress made this year."
The FY 2025 budget authorized $12.47 billion in state spending.
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Speaker Charles McCall, RAtoka, issued the following statement following Gov. Kevin Stitt's signing of the FY25 Budget:
"We appreciate Gov. Stitt honoring his commitment to sign and support a strong budget made possible due to the economic environment created by Conservative leadership in the House.
The Governor laid out several budget-related objectives leading up to and during this most recently concluded legislative session related to the budget:
Deliver on tax relief for all Oklahomans; Enhanced budget transparency;
Ensure that recurring expenditures were in line with recurring revenues; and Make targeted, strategic one-time investments while preserving Oklahoma’s savings levels near $5 million.
Through partnership, cooperation, and negotiation among the Governor, the Speaker and the Pro Tem, each of these objectives were met yielding a successful result for Oklahoma.
Governor Stitt added, "As Speaker McCall and Pro Tem Treat wrap up their final year in office, I want to commend them on their efforts to leave
Overall, spending is down 5.3% compared to last year, while only exercising 89% of overall budget authority. The House is proud to have championed, for a third straight year, a personal income tax cut and a path to zero as future revenues rise, in addition to the repeal of the states grocery tax. We appreciate Gov. Stitt’s support of these efforts as well, and hope to see them prioritized in the future."
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Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, kast week issued the following statement after the governor signed the state budget for FY '25.
“I am proud the Senate showed true leadership in the budget transparency process and pleased the governor decided to sign it into law, while backing down from a tax cut that would have put the state on an unsustainable financial path for future legislators. I’m also proud to have co-authored the largest tax cut in state history in eliminating the state portion of the grocery tax. Once it goes into effect, it will represent more money in the pockets of all 4 million Oklahomans.”
Sometimes, when she’s enjoying the water, the trails, the natural setting and all that Arcadia Lake has to offer, Jennifer Fields forgets just how close to home she really is.
“Don’t underestimate the beauty,” said Fields, who is a member of the Arcadia Lake Commission and serves on the Visit Edmond Tourism Board. “When you are on the water at the lake, or out enjoying one of the many trails there, it feels like you are many, many miles from home – but you’re actually right in your backyard.”
And the goal is to make that backyard even more attractive and accessible.
The City of Edmond already has invested time and money in looking at ways to grow and improve the natural resource that is Arcadia Lake. Plans for growth and enhancements have been in the works for years but took on a more formal tone – and a more formal timeline – when it worked on the development of a master plan for the facility.
The Arcadia Lake Needs Analysis and Master Plan – nearly two years in the making and before it was reviewed and approved by City Council –
provides a map for the future of this exciting regional attraction along historic Route 66.
Already a popular destination for residents of Edmond and visitors throughout the region, the comprehensive review and analysis by LandPlan Consultants of Tulsa – guided by a team of regular lake visitors dubbed “The Dream Team” – provides a path forward. More than $2 million was designated from ARPA funds for infrastructure investment in support of the plan.
The aim is to protect the integrity of Arcadia Lake while helping it evolve into a modern and inclusive facility that will provide amenities to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts as well as the casual visitor looking for a new experience in a breathtaking setting.
This includes dreams for the community to see more hiking trails, an equestrian-friendly area for their horses, a restaurant on the lake and more.
“We are kicking off design work for the expansion and upgrade for several miles of trails and an ambitious connector project that will improve access to a lot of areas and amenities at the lake,” said Brad Raney the Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Edmond. “I think growing and con-
necting our trails will make them and the lake even more popular for many, many people. Those trails are a big draw for the lake, and the trail projects will connect them all together.
“Eventually, the idea is to connect the lake trails with trails that will connect them to other parks and venues closer to downtown, which will make the entire system more accessible and offer up alternative modes of transportation for people looking to enjoy what Arcadia Lake has to offer.”
More and more people are doing that.
Last month, the lake saw one of its busiest weekends – if not the busiest weekend ever. More than 5,500 vehicles entered Arcadia Lake for Memorial Day weekend – compared to a car count of more than 3,100 on Memorial Day weekend in 2023. And those are just the day-use vehicle counts, which do not include camping totals.
“The current focus is the trails and continuing the momentum behind that,” Fields said. “There is time and investment now in preparing for the future. The master plan’s goal is to be forward-thinking but also mindful of how we can increase the
See Arcadia, Page 5
Last month marked Memorial Day and attendance at Arcadia Lake was way up compared to last year.
‘Improvements outlined in master plan will mean more for residents to choose from and entice visitors from throughout the region.
attractions and the work toward growth at the lake while repairs and enhancements are done to better serve citizens now as we look to the future.
“Arcadia Lake is a great asset for our citizens and community right now, but there hasn’t been a lot of change or significant upgrades since the 1980s, so the opportunity for growth is there.”
The lake offers four different park areas – Carl Reherman Park, Central State Park, Edmond Park and Scissortail Campground – and truly is a place for all seasons. In winter, visitors can watch wildlife including the bald eagles or fish for bluegill, bass or catfish in the covered, heated fishing dock. In the spring, they can play disc golf or take a hike on the rustic, scenic trails. Summertime water sports include boating, skiing, and swimming.
Amidst autumn's colorful leaves and cool breezes, campers can choose from four parks and more than 140 campsites. Whether they want to "rough it" or park an RV at a fully equipped campground with picnic tables, charcoal grills, electrical outlets, and community showers, Arcadia Lake is the perfect outdoor place.
Arcadia Lake has long been known as a haven for boaters and skiers. Sailboats and windsurfers cruise across endless expanses of water, while boaters and skiers ride lake waves. There are several boat ramps for easy access to the lake and the Rusty Store, which offers fishing equipment, bait, paddle boat rentals, and more. Ramps are located at Central State Park, Edmond Park and Spring Creek Park and there are several public swimming areas to choose from.
“Investing in Arcadia Lake makes sense for a number of reasons,” Raney said. “Obviously, there is the
From Page 4
quality-of-life value it offers, with a wide variety of recreational opportunities – there is something for everybody out there. But there also is the economic development and tourism value the lake provides. A lot of people come from out of town to take advantage of all it has to offer.”
Those in small, intimate gatherings as well as in large groups will find that nature is a beautiful setting for the pavilions at Arcadia Lake. Each area is unique, scenic, secluded and surrounded by trees and is located near the lake shoreline or sitting atop a hill.
Arcadia Lake has excellent opportunities for those who like to go mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. All trails are open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.
“Arcadia Lake now has probably a lot of the same people who came out as a way to get away during COVID,” Fields said. “There was a surge in use during that time. But, with the master plan in place and the improvements being done in preparation for that, it’s not only an option for locals as a fun ‘stay-cation,’ it also will be a place for people to use as they travel – especially along Route 66 – once they see all the growth and improvements.
“As we continue moving forward, and add to all that Arcadia Lake has to offer, I think more and more people will realize just what is available here. They won’t have to drive to Eufaula Lake or Grand Lake to have the enhanced lake-side visit. There will be a lot of people who find their weekend has opened up and can run over to Arcadia Lake and enjoy the same kind of enhanced experience.”
Right in their backyard.
Learn more about Arcadia Lake at www.arcadialake.com.
Learn more about what’s happening around the City at www.edmondok.gov/CitySource.
5/22/34 – 5/30/24
Jessie Marie Shinn Boyd, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2024, at the age of 90. Born on May 22, 1934, in Guthrie, Oklahoma, Jessie lived a rich and adventurous life that took her from the plains of her birthplace to far-flung corners of the world.
Jessie’s journey encompassed diverse landscapes, from the deserts of Egypt and Saudi Arabia to the tundra of Bethel and Anchorage, Alaska, before settling into retirement in sunny Orlando, Florida. Her spirit of exploration and adaptability defined her life’s chapters.
Jessie’s perfect day was a testament to her appreciation for life’s simple joys: from savoring a Dr. Pepper in the morning to watching rocket launches from her driveway. She exuded warmth and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A devoted member of the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), Jessie cherished her family above all else. She shared 38 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, J.D. (Jimmy Dale) Boyd, until his passing in 1995. Together, they raised three children: Susan Marie Boyd, James Todd Boyd, and Patricia Jean Boyd Jazdanian, all of whom reside in Orlando, Florida.
Jessie leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter in her children Susan and her husband Mustafa Alshaer, James and his wife Laurie, and Patricia, along with her grandchildren Leslie, Douglas, Ebrahim, Alia, A.J., Sophia, and Maria, great-grandchildren Noah, Eissa, Joud, and Ryan, four nieces, and two nephews. She is reunited in heaven with her parents and her brother, John (Pete) Shinn, who preceded her in death.
Raised by her loving parents, Luther Todd Shinn and Byrle Nichols, Jessie’s early years were shaped by the values of kindness, family, and community. She attended high school in both Guthrie and Edmond, and her thirst for knowledge led her to Central State College in Edmond, OK, where she spent a year pursuing her academic passions.
Music was Jessie’s soul, finding solace and joy in the melodies of country and Western tunes. She had a penchant for lilac-colored flowers and clothing, and her days were brightened by the simple pleasures of watching game shows on TV, observing the playful antics of squirrels and birds, and relishing in the laughter of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Edmond Historical Society, honoring Jessie’s passion for preserving history and heritage. Though she may no longer walk among us, Jessie’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, a shining beacon of love and light. May her memory be a blessing, and may she be remembered always with love and smiles.
(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.
Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)
June 3
Charles P. Burton, 50 of Edmond. Contempt of court.
Ricky Lee Caldwell Jr., 43 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and possess CDS.
June 5
Lacey Renee Battles, 39 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.
Griselda Guadalupe Gomez, 38 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege has been canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Rueben Scott Hernandez, 49 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Jasmine Ray Bayatfar, 30 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and expired tag — over three months.
Venice Fa’Shell Jones, 49 of Edmond. No tag or improper tag, no proof of insurance, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and a misdemeanor warrant.
Monyca Rachelle Rosecrants. 21 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.
Tony James Stimac, 46 of Blanchard. Trafficking in illegal drugs, failure to maintain compulsory insurance, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.
Ashley Shanee Johnson, 33 of Oklahoma City. No tag — improper tag, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
June 4
Melissa Ann Nelson, 38 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer, felony warrant, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.
Cherise Monique Dulaney, 36 of Edmond. Expired tag — over three months, no proof of insurance, shoplifting and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Mathis Michael Alexander, 32 of Edmond. Expired tag — over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Kristopher Wade Mackey, 48 homeless. Obstruction of police officer, trespassing after being forbidden and assault & battery/battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff.
Cheyenne Micah Impson, 20 of Midwest City. Three counts of failure to appear.
Kaitlyn Bianca Mendoza, 26 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS.
Shane Trevar Neimi, 46 of Edwardsville, Ill. Child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
June 6
Justin Lee Phillips, 39 of Guthrie. Three counts possession of CDS, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, possess firearm after conviction of a felony, possess drug paraphernalia, operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or combination of schedule I chemical or controlled substance and larceny from building.
June 7
Joshua Troy Voight, 45 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Isiah Lamar Coulter, 33 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.
Michael Angelo Smith, 35 homeless. Ten misdemeanor warrants and six felony warrants.
Tommy Lionel Acosta, 61 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Jimmy Frederick Brand, Jr., 44 of Luther. Pub-
lic intoxication.
Michael Angelo Smith, 35 homeless. Possession of marijuana and trespassing.
Thomas Daniel Black 20 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Zebulon Clark Pike, 21 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
June 8
Shiloh Wayne Haddox, 27 homeless. Failure to appear.
Tony Allen Burley, 55 of Blanchard. Public intoxication and five counts of failure to appear.
Nicole Joy Phillips, 30 homeless. Felony warrant.
Miles Leemon Mitzner, 66 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Amber Louise Daniel, 42 of Edmond. Shoplifting.
Ashley Jeanie Kennedy, 33 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
June 9
Tristan Farrell Boyd, 35 homeless. (Misdemeanor value) receive stolen property and possess CDS,
Timothy Hayden Marrs, 33 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.
Christian Alphonse Yellowfish, 25 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Monique Brielle Yellowfish, 24 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.
Rhett Steven Record, 24 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Saeed Adil Yousuf, 37 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Oguer Eduardo Aguirre-Quinonez, 28 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication (Lake only).
Weekend Calendar of Events June 20-23
---- In the Gallery
---- Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
---- Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
---- Twilight Swim
---- Frenzy in June
---- Concert in the Park
---- Route 66 Road Rally
---- Water Lantern Festival
---- Beats & Bites – Tracy Lawrence & Neal McCoy
---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Events
---- Pollard Theatre presents: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
---- NHRA Derby
---- Full Moon Bike Ride
---- Stars & Stripes River Festival
---- Asian District Cultural & Culinary Tour
Extra Information
In the Gallery
Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Extra Info: Featuring Okie Colors; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com
Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
Location: Armstrong Auditorium
Extra Info: Mon, Feb 26 – Fri, Jan 17 2025; Free; Mon – Thu: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Fri & Sun: 10 a.m. –4 p.m.; closed Saturdays; armstrongauditorium.org
Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market
Extra Info: Sat, Apr 20 – Sat, Nov 2; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.com
Twilight Swim
Location: Pelican Bay Aquatic Center
Extra Info: Tue, May 28 – Thu, Aug 1; 7 – 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays twilight swim; pelicanbayaquatics.com
Frenzy in June
Location: Frenzy Brewing Company
Extra Info: Fri, Jun 21: Rober Allen @ 7:30 p.m.; Sat, Jun 22: Carter Combs @ 7:30 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com
Concert in the Park
Location: Hafer Park
Extra Info: Thu, Jun 20; Free; 6 – 8:30 p.m.; edmondok.gov
Route 66 Road Rally
Location: Chicken Shack, Route 66 M
idpoint Corridor
Extra Info: Sat, Jun 22; 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.; $25 per vehicle; midpointcorridor.com
Water Lantern Festival Location: Hafer Park
Extra Info: Sat, Jun 22; 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.; $14 ---$72; waterlanternfestival.com
Beats & Bites Festival ----
Tracy Lawrence & Neal McCoy
Location: Riverwind Casino
Extra Info: Sat, Jun 22; 5 p.m.; riverwind.com
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Thu, Jun 20 – Sun, Jun 23: Choose Your Adventure!; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat, Jun 22 – Sun, Jun 23: Signature Tour @ 1 – 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org
Pollard Theatre presents: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Location: Pollard Theatre
Extra Info: Jun 22 – Jun 29; Thu – Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; Adult: $35; Senior: $30; Child: $10; Military & Teacher: $30; thepollard.org
NRHA Derby Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park
Extra Info: Tue Jun 11 – Sun, Jun 23; 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.; nrhaderby.com
Full Moon Bike Ride
Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory
Extra Info: Fri, Jun 21; 8:45 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
Stars & Stripes River Festival
Location: Riversport
Extra Info: Sat, Jun 22; 11 a.m. ---- 6 p.m.;
The first ever Route 66 Midpoint Corridor Road Rally will be Saturday, June 22. The starting point will be at the Chicken Shack, 212 OK-66, in Arcadia. $25 per vehicle includes a Chicken Shack breakfast when you check in at 8am. Any vehicle (car, motorcycle, RV) will travel to 11 cities along the Midpoint Corridor and return to the Chicken Shack at 8 pm for a dance party, prizes, and giveaways.
The Midpoint Corridor consists of 11 cities between Edmond and Sapulpa, that have joined forces to create the greatest 100 miles of Route 66 through unification, stewardship, beautification, and preservation for the next 100 years. Cities include Edmond, Arcadia, Luther, Wellston, Chandler, Davenport, Stroud, Depew, Bristow, Kellyville and Sapulpa. By working together, the Midpoint Corridor has a vision of bringing events and attractions that will shine a light on this section of historic Route 66.
In anticipation of the 100th Anniversary of Route 66 in 2026, the Road
Rally will be one of the inaugural events to lead the way. “Our first initiative was 100 Miles of Christmas last year. It helped 11 cities along Midpoint Corridor welcome Route 66 travelers over the holiday. The Road Rally plans to expand on that desire to navigate historic Route 66 by adding the thrill of a road rally,” said Ed Gochenour, owner of The Chicken Shack and founder of Route 66 Midpoint Corridor.
All 11 cities will welcome Route 66 Midpoint Corridor Road Rally participants with selfie spots, route 66 items for sale and fun activities. “Main Street America is Route 66,” said Jennifer Thornton, Tourism Director of Visit Edmond. “Events like this Road Rally makes for an enjoyable day spent on this stretch of Route 66.”
For more information and to register for the Route 66 Midpoint Corridor Road Rally, visit www.midpointcorridor.com and follow Midpoint Corridor on Facebook.
Often the concept behind a scientific study is quite complex. But sometimes it’s simply a matter of proving an idea that seems like common sense.
And so it was for Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientists Harini Bagavant, Ph.D., and Umesh Deshmukh, Ph.D.
Their discovery partially answers a lingering mystery of Sjögren's, an autoimmune disease that affects moisture-producing glands. The condition
causes painful dry eyes and mouth and can result in irreversible tissue damage, neurological problems, lung disease and cancer. Up to 4 million Americans live with Sjögren’s.
Scientists have long wondered why age is a risk factor for Sjögren’s. The median age for diagnosis is 52, and women are nine times more likely than men to develop it.
The OMRF study determined that a particular white blood cell associated with aging proliferates and infil-
trates the salivary glands in older mice, resulting in inflammation and loss of immune tolerance.
“We found that as normal mice age, many of them spontaneously get the same features we see in Sjögren's disease in humans,” Bagavant said. “The aging process drives the inflammation in the glands.”
White blood cells generally circulate in the blood and lymph and create antibodies to protect our bodies against infection. In this study, the specific cell type also was found in various organs – a finding that raised more questions.
“The fact that we found them in the salivary gland, just spontaneously accumulating along with the presence of inflammation, tells us they must be doing something,” Bagavant said. “Figuring that out is our next step.”
Beyond their finding is a more universal idea for future research of Sjögren’s and perhaps other
autoimmune diseases: Reliable results require age-appropriate research models.
In this case, this means using mice between 15 and 24 months old. Historically, scientists have used younger mice for drug testing.
“What our study suggests is that if you want to test a potential drug, and your target population is older humans, those drugs should be tested in age-matched animal models,” Deshmukh said. “As more research is done, I believe we’ll see a directive on this topic from the National Institutes of Health.” Their discovery was published recently in the journal Geroscience. The research was supported by grant No. DE032911 from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, part of the NIH, and from Shared Instrumentation grant No. 1S10OD028479-01, also from the NIH, for the use of specialized equipment.
Researchers around the globe continue to investigate Alzheimer’s disease, the most commonly diagnosed form of dementia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive form of dementia that affects around 6.5 million people in the United States.
Since AD affects parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language, notable symptoms include memory loss and difficulties communicating.
AD can be a debilitating condition, so naturally people want to do all they can to avoid it. Right now there are no proven prevention strategies nor a cure. However, the Mayo Clinic says there is strong evidence that healthy lifestyle habits may play a role in reducing AD risk, as well as risk for other types of dementia. The Alzheimer’s Associa-
tion and the Mayo Clinic recommend these strategies to help reduce dementia risk.
• Reduce risk for heart disease. Some autopsy studies show that as many as 80 percent of individuals with AD also have cardiovascular disease. Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels may, in turn, help individuals reduce their risk for AD.
• Eat a balanced diet. Many doctors recommend the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in vegetables, fruits and lean protein coming from sources containing omega-3 fatty acids. This diet also is heart-healthy.
• Embrace physical activity. Regular physical activity may lower the risk of AD as well as vascular dementia. Exercise can boost blood and oxygen flow in the brain. Cardiovascular exercise is an essential part of any wellness plan.
• Quit smoking. Quitting smoking can help maintain brain health and reduce the risk for various diseases.
• Avoid head injuries. Always wear protective safety equipment when participating in sports or while riding motorcycles or other motorized vehicles. Fall-proof your home and wear seatbelts while riding in cars.
• Maintain social connections and activity. A number of studies indicate that maintaining strong social connections and keeping mentally active as people age might lower the risk of cognitive decline as well as AD.
• Keep a healthy weight. Manage weight through diet and exercise.
Although there is no guaranteed way to avoid a dementia diagnosis, certain lifestyle changes may help people reduce their risk.
I need to follow up briefly on last week’s column.
Some of that column concerned the 2021 arctic storm, named Uri, and the ridiculous natural gas charges we will be paying off for decades.
Steve Gust
I had estimated the higher charges at more than 1,000 percent of what was normally charged for natural gas. That statement was not completely accurate. I thought it was around 2,000 percent but wasn’t sure. The next day I read an article in The Oklahoman about a candidate for the Corporation Commission. The article mentioned the 2021 storm and costs. It said the cost increase was actually 40,000 percent higher. You might want to read that again. It was 40,000 percent more resulting in $4.5 billion dollars.
On the Oklahoma Natural Gas web page, there’s a pretty good explanation why it was so much. There were purchases made on the
spot market, which hiked the price. ONG, to their credit, did have a reserve of natural gas, but it wasn’t enough. Had it not been for the reserve they claim it would have cost another $1.4 billion.
But when your prices go from a normal $2 to $3 a unit to $1,200 a unit – something isn’t right. I still maintain that price gouging was involved. People needed the natural gas commodity to live and not have every pipe in their house bust wide open from the freeze.
What do we do if we have a severe drought? Will we let a supplier, or the government, charge us $S00 for a case of water?
I hope the Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond follows through with his legal actions and gets us some relief. Some things just aren’t right.
The people who charge outrageous amounts for pharmaceuticals, or those who sell heat, need to realize these are life-and-death decisions and they have no right to take advantage of the situation.
(Steve Gust may be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com)
Last week, Governor Kevin Stitt issued Executive Order 2024-11, counteracting Chinese Communist Party malign influence and bolstering Oklahoma's defenses against potential threats posed by foreign adversaries.
The executive order outlines a comprehensive series of measures aimed at protecting Oklahomans and their tax dollars from CCP aggression and escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
"Under President Biden, the United States is dealing with an aggressive and emboldened Chinese government, and states have to be prepared to deal with those consequences," said Governor Stitt. "I'm proud to take this executive action to protect our interests from foreign adversaries. I can promise you, the Chinese Communist Party will find no friend in Oklahoma."
Citing a string of alarming statements from U.S. intelligence agencies regarding the CCP's espionage
Senator James Lankford (R-OK) sent a letter to US Attorney General Merrick Garland calling out the Department of Justice for suing the State of Oklahoma over the immigration law H.B. 4156, which empowers law enforcement to arrest individuals illegally present in the United States. Lankford serves as lead Republican on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Government Operations and Border Management.
Lankford spoke on the Senate floor about the ongoing, dangerous situation posed by what are known as “Special Interest Aliens” as eight ISIS-K members were picked up by law enforcement after they crossed the southern border. He has continued to push back on President Biden for his sudden attempt to change the narrative on the border just six months before an election. Lankford also introduced the Security and Oversight of International Landholdings (SOIL) Act to provide oversight and transparency of purchases of US agricultural land that threaten national security.
“DOJ’s efforts to block my state’s implementation of this measure raises serious questions about the Biden Administration’s recent ‘focus’ on border security. It is hypocritical for the Biden Administration to refuse to act to secure the south-
ern border while trying to block Oklahoma from doing its part to protect itself from this Administration’s open border policies…The ongoing border crisis has empowered cartels and transnational criminal organizations both at the border and in the interior. In my home state of Oklahoma, many Chinese migrants who have crossed the border have ended up working on illegal marijuana farms run by Chinese transnational criminal organizations. In Oklahoma and across the country, Americans are dying from fentanyl that has been trafficked across the border by the cartels that have been empowered under this Administration’s open border policies,” Lankford wrote in the letter.
View the letter below.
Dear Attorney General Garland:
I write today to express my concerns with the Department of Justice’s recent litigation against the State of Oklahoma for its implementation of H.B. 4156, which is set to go into effect on July 1, 2024. DOJ’s efforts to block my state’s implementation of this measure raises serious questions about the Biden Administration’s recent “focus” on border security. It is hypocritical for the Biden Administration to refuse to act to se-
activities and growing aggression in the Indo-Pacific region, the executive order implements proactive measures to protect state assets and citizens by focusing on the following directives: Risk Assessment and Auditing: The order directs OMES to administer an annual state risk assessment to identify areas of vulnerability, such as vulnerability to cyberattacks, public health, energy infrastructure and more.
Defending State Assets: To bolster our defense posture, Governor Stitt aims to protect taxpayer assets by ordering the development of divestment plans for those assets deemed at risk of compromise in the event of an Indo-Pacific conflict.
Securing our Supply Chain: Governor Stitt's order ensures Oklahoma reduces its reliance on single-source procurement from adversarial regimes like the CCP, while directing OMES to assess critical infrastructure, telecommunications, military installations, and other areas of concern.
The executive order comes three weeks after Governor Stitt signed SB 1705 to prohibit foreign governments from owning land in Oklahoma.
House Representative Jason Lowe, D-Oklahoma City, issued the following statement after the Oklahoma Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit of Tulsa Race Massacre Survivors seeking reparations in an opinion reached last week.
"I'm greatly disappointed with the Oklahoma Supreme Court's dismissal of the case regarding the survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Viola Fletcher, Lessie Evelyn Benningfield Randle, and the family of the departed Hughes Van Ellis will never be able to receive their due justice in the state of Oklahoma."
The lawsuit was brought under Oklahoma's public nuisance law and argued the Tulsa Race Massacre created division and disparities that are still present today.
cure the southern border while trying to block Oklahoma from doing its part to protect itself from this Administration’s open border policies.
Since President Biden took office, nearly 8 million migrants have crossed the southern border illegally – more illegal crossings than under the Obama and Trump Administrations combined. This astronomical level of illegal immigration has strained State and local government services across the nation, creating issues for school systems, homelessness shelters, and related services.
The ongoing border crisis has empowered cartels and transnational criminal organizations both at the border and in the interior. In my home state of Oklahoma, many Chinese migrants who have crossed the border have ended up working on illegal marijuana farms run by Chinese transnational criminal organizations. In Oklahoma and across the country, Americans are dying from fentanyl that has been trafficked across the border by the cartels that have been empowered under this Administration’s open border policies.
According to US Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens, over 52,000 special interest migrants (SIMs) crossed the border already this fiscal year. SIMs are illegal aliens who potentially pose a national security risk to the United States. Many of these SIMs are released into the country with no knowledge of who they are or why they are here. Rather than addressing the real national security concerns created our open southern border, DOJ is instead focused on handcuffing Oklahoma’s ability to address the border crisis.
While the Biden Administration has sought to use the recent bipartisan border bill as a partisan cudgel against Republicans, the people of my home state have been asking for leadership on the border. Oklahoma passed H.B. 4156 because of the Federal government’s lack of leadership on securing the border. Your efforts to block Oklahoma’s implementation of this law shows that the Biden Administration continues to be unserious in its efforts to address our open southern border.
Stepping out of the elevator, I encountered a four-foot tall penguin. Loose from the zoo? Nope, this impressive specimen was one of a flock of 15 lime-green birds which move mysteriously around the Bentonville 21c Museum Hotel. This was just the first of a number of surprises I found in this Arkansas town.
In times past, Bentonville was identified primarily as the home of Walmart. The company is still really big business in town, but with the opening of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (thanks to Alice Walton), the city is now a mecca for art lovers, food lovers, portable penguin lovers and cutting-edge innovators. And it’s become a major tourist destination.
I was recently on a press trip entitled “Art and Adventure in Arkansas,” sponsored by the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
A visit to Crystal Bridges was a prime target on the itinerary. This was my fourth visit and, like earlier trips, concentrated on the galleries. I saw a number of familiar favorite pieces but exhibits change and even the attitude toward display has evolved.
Originally, the museum was organized chronologically beginning with art on canvas by white men – American painters like John Singleton Copley and Charles Willson Peale. Understanding that American art is much more than just the European-influenced artists, the museum now incorporates works by indigenous artists into the historical timeline.
Not only is admission to the museum free, but there are numerous drop-in tours which are free. We were fortunate to have Fran Taylor for our tour of the museum – such a knowledgeable and engaging guide.
Descriptions beside many of the paintings tell stories about the works but Ms. Taylor added an extra detail to “Kindred Spirits,” a painting by Asher Durand. Durand had been a student of artist Thomas Cole, founder of the Hudson River School. In this painting, Cole, who had died, is pictured with his friend, poet William Cullen Bryant. The setting is a classic Hudson River-style landscape. What I would have missed in Durand’s painting are the names of the two men carved into one of the trees.
Works of art range from realistic and representational to avant-garde – in a variety of genres. And all these wonderful works are housed in an architecturally exceptional building. The entire complex covers 120 acres with several miles of paths, multiple outdoor sculptures and even a classic Usonian house created by Frank Lloyd Wright.
I’ll visit Crystal Bridges again – and again – and I’m sure I still won’t see all of it.
The Momentary, an affiliate of Crystal Bridges, features contemporary art, performances, concerts and a variety of non-traditional artistic experiences. The building itself is a surprise – a repurposed cheese factory. Exhibitions change frequently – so you won’t see what we saw here. During our visit, the featured exhibition was Enduring Amazon: Life and Afterlife in the Rainforest. The story was told through still photography, huge-screen videos, live samples of fish and plants and more. Expect the unexpected at the Momentary.
Back at the hotel, we had time to explore the art on display there. First, more about the penguins. Every 21c has a flock; each location has its own color for the birds. Easily moveable, they can appear anywhere. Depending on the sense of humor of your traveling companions, you might even find one in your bed or your shower.
Some of the art items in the hotel are permanent and site specific. The restaurant, The Hive, features Buzz Kill by artist Johnston Foster. The work incorporates such varied materials as aluminum siding, garden hose, melted plastic table cloth, Styrofoam and lots more. All these elements are combined to create dripping honeycomb, twining kudzu and swarms of bees.
Another permanent piece sits outside the museum. Called Making Change, it is a coin-covered 1962 Fleetwood Cadillac limousine. The car was built the same year Walmart was founded and the coins reference Walton’s original Five and Dime store.
The current temporary exhibition (these change about once a year) is called Fragile Figures, Beings and Times. Extensive documentation explains the selection and rationale behind the creations and their relationship to each other and to earlier art works.
You’ll also find lots of murals, sculptures and neon art around town. I particularly liked the artwork on the restaurant where we had dinner –Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico.
Named after family patriarch Don “Yeyo,” it was founded by Rafael Rios, executive chef (and James Beard semi-finalist), and is run by members of the Rios family. The menu features recipes redolent of Mexican street food and the name means “soul of
Positioning is everything. Go fast on downhills and flats. Always enjoy the chase – you don’t get stronger unless you’re riding with people faster than you. These tips were provided by long-distance bicyclists and criterium racers. They’ll use them – and maybe you will too – at the fourth Cycle 66 on Nov. 3, in Edmond.
Variety of rides
With a variety of rides and races, there’s something for every bicycle rider of all ages and abilities: 1-, 10-, 33- and 66-mile-long rides and Criterium (Crit) races.
All events start and end on South Broadway Avenue, between West 1st Street and West Main Street. The 66-milers take off first at 8 a.m., followed by 33-milers at 8:10, 10-milers at 8:20, then the onemile fun group at 10:00.
Lots of families enroll for the one- and ten-mile rides to get exercise with their children. In 2023, 694 riders from 12 states participated. Jason Duncan, Cycle 66 Ride Director, encourages participation, writing “The 2024 Cycle 66 Routes will show riders more Route 66 than ever before as we head east towards Arcadia, Luther and Wellston (depending on your preferred distance)!”
Cycling prices
Fondo 10-mile, 33-mile and 66-mile cycling for adults: $45; 10-mile cost for children 12 and under: $10; and the Kids 1-mile ride: free.
2024’s criterium registration will open this summer. In 2023, men’s and women’s criterium costs were $45 per event; Juniors Race (ages 11-18), $15; and Kid’s Race, free.
Please visit Cycle 66’s website for 2024’s routes, times and prices as well as sign-up for emails at www.cycle66ok.com.
Criteriums – riding fast and hard
Cycle 66 partners with OKC Velo, a local cycling non-profit, to hold criterium races in a three by two street “box” racing area. Crits are short, intense and highly competitive contests.
This year, there are eight races (10:00 a.m. – 3:10 p.m. start times) and they are organized a bit differently – by age group. For men, there is an age 1929, 30-39, 40-49 and 50+ race (all championship). Women have an age 19-39 and 40+ (championship qualifying) race. Cash awards for men and woman range from $40 (5th place) to $275 (first place).
Please visit Cycle 66’s website for 2024’s routes, times and prices as well as sign-up for emails at www.cycle66ok.com.
Something for Everyone
Many restaurants and non-food stores are open for visitors and there is a Kid’s Zone.
Whether competing, leisurely riding or simply watching and cheering on friends and family, Cycle 66 has a place for you too.
Spring training in progress for Cycle 66
Myron Knight, President of the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Oklahoma, based in OKC, started training for 33- and 66-mile rides in March. “In the beginning in March and by the end of April or May, we are riding hills with increased milage and speed. By the end of the year, we are ready for Cycle 66.”
Last year’s Men’s Crit A winner is Evan McQuirk, age 28 of OKC. He said, “…I'll train anywhere between two to five hours [four days a week]…”, cycling between 200 to 300 miles a week. He gave an example of his interval sessions. “I had four minutes at a very intense pace…the metric that we use is by power and heart rate…Then I take a break of two to three minutes, and then I repeat that hard fourminute effort, take a rest…seven times.”
Makenzie MacMillan of OKC took 3rd place in the women’s Crit B. She runs three times a week, five to ten miles; weight lifts two times a week; and cycles four-five days a week with a goal of 100 miles. “In the spring, I shoot for 100 miles a week and in the summer, my goal is 150 to 200 a week…”
Whether riding, competing or watching these three cyclists and hundreds of others, Cycle 66 has a place for you too.
ARCADIA – Singer-songwriter
Scott Taylor will headline an Elm Tree Concert at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 30, at the Arcadia Round Barn.
Taylor, who lives in Bartlesville, has been singing since the age of 3, getting his start in church and school choirs. He has a special love for cowboy and Western songs. Music from one of his CDs, “Friends Along the Trail” has been used for the television program “Best of America by Horseback.”
Taylor’s newest CD is entitled “Love and Other Misdemeanors,” and he will be performing some of
those songs during the June 30 concert.
Admission is free to the Elm Tree Concert Series, which continues most Sunday afternoons through Sept. 22 beneath the giant elm tree on the north side of the Round Barn. Donations are accepted for the maintenance of the barn, which was built in 1898. Guests can bring lawn chairs or sit at the picnic tables.
The Round Barn is located six miles east of Interstate 35 on Historic Route 66. For more information about live music at the barn, call Joe Baxter at 405-833-1350.
Mexico.” Everything is made from scratch and much of the produce comes from the Rios Family Farm. Whatever you order will be good –especially washed down with a Mexican Coke.
If history is your thing, there are two museums you shouldn’t miss.
The Walmart Museum Heritage Lab is located two blocks from the town square in the Ledger, the world’s first bikeable building, A big hit here is a visit with AI-aided Sam Walton. Exhibits include lots of memorabilia from early Walmart stores and information about Walmart around the world.
The other attraction is the Museum of Native American History. Founded by David Bogle, the basis of the museum is his personal collection of art and artifacts, which started
with a collection of arrowheads. Today the collection consists of over 10,000 items ranging from the Paleoindian Period (12,000 to 10,000 years ago) to the 1930s and ‘40s. Well-documented and artfully displayed, exhibits in this museum are a real treat – and the gift shop has many beautiful Native Americanmade items.
Our press tour covered all these places in one day. But we missed a number of other attractions – historic homes, gardens, hiking trails, and mountain biking opportunities, cultural events, and more interesting restaurants than you can shake a stick at. About a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Edmond, Bentonville makes a good weekend getaway –and an even better three or four day stay.
The past few years for Pixar have been rocky to say the least. During the pandemic years most of their films ended up coming straight to Disney Plus and took a lot of shine off the studio who created such animated classics like “Toy Story” and “Finding Nemo.”
With last summer’s surprisingly under the radar success of “Elemental” and this summer’s “Inside Out 2” it feels like the studio has returned to a more confident form of filmmaking.
“Inside Out 2” continues the internal and external life of coming-of-age Riley from 2015’s “Inside Out.” When Riley enters her teenage years, her emotions’ lives are turned upside down when new emotions arrive and throw Riley’s mind into chaos.
"Inside Out 2" is a rarity in terms of sequels. Most sequels come in and want to turn up the volume on the successful parts of the original and tell a bigger, better story. In contrast to that familiar tactic, "Inside Out 2” feels like a natural extension of the first film and a clever progression of the life
of preteen Riley from "Inside Out."
And as our protagonist is growing into puberty, another level of emotional complexity is added to the mix.
With this new complexity the story could have easily become too mature for the younger kids in the audience, but "Inside Out 2" has enough visually accessible elements. Younger kids may enjoy the scenes of the emotions riding a big branch of broccoli down the anthropomorphized stream of consciousness as well as a fun sequence that includes different animation styles when we visit the
deep vault of Riley's secrets and meet a 2D animated character and a reproduction of a mid2000s video game character.
Overall "Inside Out 2" is the successful sequel to "Inside Out" that logically extends the premise of the first film while adding new elements that propel our characters forward. "Inside Out 2" feels like a reflection of our current societal reckoning with the anxiety, mostly highlighted by the children who have grown up in the post-pandemic therapy conscious culture.
The level of detail to the metaphorical representation in "Inside Out 2" both gives kids he language and tools to identify and talk about emotions and adolescents/grownups a clever way to think about the way our minds can change and what kind of memories shape the person that we become.
"Inside Out 2" is rated PG for some thematic elements.
4 out of 5 stars.
(Contact George Gust for comment at gust.george@gmail.com)
The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC) has been granted an Unrestricted Grant by Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB) in the amount of $115,000 a year to support eye research conducted by the Department of Ophthalmology. The funding has been awarded based on a thorough review of criteria, including the department’s research activities, laboratory environment, and clinical and scientific staff, as evaluated by RPB’s renowned Scientific Advisory Panel.
The funds will be deployed at the discretion of the Department Chair, to provide maximum flexibility in developing and expanding eye research programs, and to provide opportunities for creative planning that go beyond the scope of restricted project grants.
“This grant will be critical to advancing our department’s scientific study of retinal degenerations, diabetic eye disease, infectious and inflammatory disease, and other conditions that can result in permanent vision loss,” stated Dr. R. Michael Siatkowski, the Edward L. Gaylord professor and chair .
Visit Edmond and three local tourism partners won awards at the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association’s annual RedBud Awards, sponsored by Edmond Electric on June 11.
The state-wide RedBud Awards Ceremony recognizes Oklahoma tourism attractions and destination marketing organizations for their outstanding efforts to serve and promote Oklahoma’s tourism industry. Shelley Zumwalt, Executive Director of Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department and James Leewright, CEO of Oklahoma Travel Industry Association emceed the event at the Edmond Conference Center and gave 37 awards in 17 categories.
Edmond Farmer’s Market won a RedBud award for Outstanding Agritourism Attraction. This award recognizes an attraction that features entertainment and a strong marketing and public relations effort that contributes to the overall tourism industry.
Edmond Arts Festival won a Merit Award to Outstanding Event. This award recognizes a festival that presents a creative and unique activity and utilizes effective marketing and public relations to attract tourists.
KickingBird Golf won a Merit Award for Outstanding Attraction. This award recognizes an attraction that has made marked improvements in the facility, has a strong educational value and features marketing and public relations that contributes to the overall tourism industry.
Edmond supporters from the Tourism Advisory Board, Edmond Conference Center, Downtown Edmond Business Association, City of Edmond, Edmond Parks and Recreation and Mayor Darrell Davis accepted the awards. Jennifer Thornton, Edmond Tourism Director was also elected as President of the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association and said, “The RedBud Awards highlight the best in Oklahoma Tourism and we are so proud of our community!”
This year’s RedBud winner is also from Edmond. Getting the recogniition were those who helped put on the ever
Speaking during a courtyard sculpture dedication last week, is Judith James, OMRF's executive vice president & chief medical officer. The sculpture behind her, which honors OMRF Distinguished Career Scientist Rod McEver, M.D., was funded by the Fred Jones Family Foundation
The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation on Monday dedicated a courtyard renovation project funded by the Fred Jones Family Foundation.
The centerpiece of the new project was a sculpture by artist Stan Carroll, known for the iconic SkyDance Bridge spanning Interstate 40 at Oklahoma City’s Scissortail Park. The sculpture, “Perseverance,” honors the work of OMRF’s Dr. Rod McEver.
In addition to the sculpture, courtyard renovations include new landscaping and shade structures that serve patients, their families and OMRF employees. The project was made possible by a Mary Eddy Signature Gift, a grant that provides $75,000 to support beautification at a local nonprofit.
Kirk Hall, chairman and president of the Fred Jones Family Foundation, helped to dedicate the space, which, he said, will serve as “a respite, a place of solace, a piece of community where people can celebrate the great work of OMRF.”
“Here, scientists and patients can cross paths,” said OMRF Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Judith James, M.D., Ph.D. “Our scientists can see people impacted by the diseases they study, and our patients can see that there is hope on the horizon.”
McEver, a hematologist, spent more than three decades at OMRF, where he discovered a protein that plays a crucial role in inflammation and blood clotting. His work culminated in Adakveo, the first FDA-approved treatment for the pain crises associated with sickle cell disease. The condition affects an estimated 100,000 Americans and 5 million people worldwide.
“No individual reaches their highest potential
without the help of others,” said McEver. “I am happy to be a small part of the lab, foundation, and global research communities that made this critical work possible.”
Carroll’s sculpture offers a sharp, abstract representation of a sickled blood cell. Its name recognizes that scientific discoveries rarely happen overnight, but rather result from a career of intensive focus and diligence.
“It also honors the perseverance of the people who live with sickle cell and other diseases,” said OMRF Vice President of Research Courtney Griffin, Ph.D. at the ceremony.
“Perseverance” is Carroll’s second piece to adorn OMRF’s campus. He also created “Oklahoma Wind,” which hangs in OMRF’s research tower and symbolically melds our state’s signature gusts with a DNA double helix.
During a meeting earlier this month, the Edmond, City Council approved the final set of agreements with the French Family Charitable Foundation for the maintenance and operation of the proposed art park at the corner of 2nd Street and Coltrane Road.
City Council voted to approve an agreement that includes funding for 70 percent of the maintenance and operation budget of the proposed park, with a maximum contribution of $899,360 the first year. The agreement also means:
The City is responsible for major repairs, upgrades, or overhaul to the Huntwick Detention Pond necessary or required after completion of the park.
The City will administer the payments to the designated facility manager, Sculpture Park Operations, LLC, and provide oversight regarding invoices, records, and prior approval for purchases that cost more than $100,000.
The City will provide water, sanitary sewer, sanitation and electric service to the park at no cost after the facility is completed – an estimated annual utilities cost of $400,000 to $500,000.
During its May 28 meeting, Council approved a series of agreements with the French Family Charitable Foundation that will provide a forgivable loan of $10 million to help fund construction of park infrastructure improvements. The City agreed to waive plan review, permitting and inspection fees for the project.
The City also agreed to fund public infrastructure work that may include the construction of storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water distribution, street improvements, public parking, and construction of public trails to facilitate the construction of the
As well, the city has committed to reimburse the French Family Charitable Foundation and the Fine Arts
See Park, Page 18
Ken Bryan, who has served as the interim Director of Planning for the City of Edmond since January, has been selected to man the position fulltime.
With more than 25 years’ experience, Bryan has led the department since his predecessor, Randy Entz, was named the Assistant City Manager of Development Services. Bryan took over while continuing his role as the Long-Range Planner.
“I’m honored to be selected for this unique opportunity,” Bryan said. “Our Planning Department is full of top-notch professionals who are committed to our community and I’m proud to be associated with them. It’s an exciting time to be in Edmond and my family and I look forward to continuing to serve the people who live, work, learn, and play here.”
Bryan joined the City of Edmond in July 2017 at the Long-Range Planner, where he maintained and imple-
mented the City’s comprehensive plan, completed and managed large-scale planning projects, and coordinated with multiple departments, agencies, and entities to support the community’s vision and goals.
Previously, Bryan served as a Program Planner and Senior Planner with the City of Oklahoma City from August 2008 to July 2017. Before that, he worked as a senior Planner and Project Manager for C.H. Guernsey & Co., a Hydrogeologist with Trust Environmental Services, LLC, and as a Research Assistant at the University of Arizona.
Bryan earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Oklahoma in 2003 and has a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Oklahoma State. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners and is the Vice President of the American Planning Association-Oklahoma Chapter Board of Directors.
The Oklahoma CareerTech Foundation has opened ticket sales for its Hall of Fame banquet in October, when the foundation will honor six inductees.
This year’s Oklahoma Career and Technology Education Hall of Fame inductees are Tom Friedemann, Randy Gilbert, Velta Reed-Johnston, Denise Morris, Joe Robinson and Jack Staats. Banquet tickets and sponsorships are available at https://form.jotform.com/24142458 6226154.
“Oklahoma is home to the best CareerTech system in the nation, and these six Hall of Fame honorees con-
tributed much to the vision that has shaped career and technology education in Oklahoma,” said CareerTech State Director Brent Haken. “Each of these honorees played starring roles in the state’s journey to becoming the best in career and technology education. They have advanced the mission of CareerTech in unique and extraordinary ways.”
The 2024 class of inductees will increase the Hall of Fame membership to 92.
The Hall of Fame, which is sponsored by the Oklahoma Foundation for Career and Technology Education, was founded in 1990.
Caroline Pierce, with more than 32 years of experience with the City of Edmond, has been named the new Human Resources Director.
Pierce, who has been in the City’s HR department fulltime for nearly 26 years, assumed the role June 8, taking over for longtime HR director Lisa Goodpasture.
“I am incredibly honored to continue serving the City of Edmond in the role of Human Resources Director,” Pierce said. “I look forward to having a dedicated focus on fostering a people-first workforce and modernizing HR initiatives to further evolve talent development and employee engagement. What we all do in our jobs is reflective in our community. I am excited to collaborate with our management team to build a highly engaged workforce, and to attract and retain the best talent to serve our great city.”
A graduate of Texas A&M, where she earned her Bachelor’s of Communication degree, Pierce began with the City as a secretary for HR, then served four years in the City Manager’s office before returning to the HR department in 1998. Since then, she has been a benefits specialist, director of employee training, the employment/training coordinator, recruitment manager and the interim HR Director.
A previous candidate accepted the position but withdrew after further consideration.
From Page 17
Institute (FAI) for construction sales tax paid in the construction of the park and private FAI facility. Additionally, the City committed to drainage improvements, valued at $500,000, at the adjacent Huntwick Detention basin that will assist with stormwater control for the park and committed to fund, at a future date, Coltrane Road improvements estimated at $3 million.
To fund the forgivable loan, the City will use funds from Edmond Electric, Solid Waste Reserves, Field Service Reserves, Capital Improvement Plan tax revenues and revenues from the interest accrued in the Hospital Sale Trust fund.
The City will also provide pieces from its public art collection for display in the park. It already committed $180,000 toward the purchase of a piece installed at the corner of the park location. “Valley of the Horse” – a lifesized bronze sculpture of six horses by renowned artist Paul Moore – was installed Jan. 5 at the northwest corner of 2nd Street and Coltrane Road. The statue is part of the 310 pieces in the City’s collection.
Under the set of agreements, the French Family Charitable Foundation will develop the 62-acre park to provide a place to exhibit public art and will include sculptures and future installations as well as park amenities such as playgrounds, dog parks, event lawns, restrooms, and other facilities. When complete, would transfer ownership to the Park Conservancy Trust. The park, upon the start of construction, is required to be completed within 24 months.
Join the RIVERSPORT Rowing League with a group or as an individual. Teams practice one evening per week for 11 weeks, then race 500 meter sprints in the season championship. Registration for the next season is open now through July 9. The championship race happens during the Oklahoma Regatta Festival (ORF) on October 4. Teams meet at RIVERSPORT, downtown in the Boathouse District and all equipment and coaching is provided. For more information or to sign up, email info@riversportokc.org.
Last week, Governor Kevin Stitt issued an executive order promoting fiscal responsibility and safeguarding the use of taxpayer dollars by state agencies.
"We all have to remember, the money we spend doesn't belong to us - it belongs to Oklahoma taxpayers," said Governor Stitt. "Oklahomans expect my administration to steward each tax dollar well, and that's exactly what we're going to do. It makes no sense for state agencies who pay the salaries of communications staff to outsource work to PR firms via sole source contracts. It's wasteful and we're putting a stop to it statewide."
Executive Order 2024-12 prohibits state agencies from entering into sole source contracts with public relations, marketing, or communications firms and vendors and mandates, unless there is a statutory directive to the contrary, that all contracts with PR vendors be procured through a minimum 30-day request for proposal. The executive
‘We all have to remember, the money we spend doesn't belong to us - it belongs to Oklahoma taxpayers. Oklahomans expect my administration to steward each tax dollar well, and that's exactly what we're going to do’
—- Okla. Gov. Kevin Stittorder also mandates that agreements currently in place that were secured via sole source shall not be renewed and shall terminate at the end of the current contractual term and implements restrictions on future contracts.
Executive Order 2024-12 underscores the Stitt administration's commitment to conservative governance and safeguarding tax dollars by implementing strict guidelines and regulations for state agencies: Ending Sole Source and Statewide Contracts with PR Vendors: State agencies are prohibited from entering into sole source contracts with public relations, marketing, or communications firms or vendors. All contracts will be required to un-
dergo a 30-day RFP process.
Eliminating Political Influence: PR firms and vendors with active campaign-related or state question initiative contracts are banned from contracting with state agencies.
Cracking Down on Lobbying: State agencies are prohibited from entering into contracts with PR vendors who employ registered lobbyists, and contracts must be immediately terminated if a vendor is caught participating in unregistered lobbying.
The executive order goes into effect immediately and will be distributed to OMES, the directors of state agencies, and the Governor's advisors to ensure full implementation.
