Edmond Life and Leisure - December 21, 2023

December 21, 2023 Vol. 24, No. 31

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Merry Christmas

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.

Route 66 attractions in Edmond See Page 9

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22 AM Showers High 63° Low 51°

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23 Showers High 62° Low 51°

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24 Showers High 64° Low 46°

A very Merry Christmas to each and everyone of our readers. This Monday, Christmas, please enjoy spending the day with family and friends. Have a great gift exchange as well as food.

Don’t forget that most businesses will be closed.

Among them will be Edmond Life & Leisure.

If you’re spending the holiday traveling — be safe on the roads.

Page 2 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 3

Free seminars offered seniors Senior Living Truth Series is gearing up for its ninth year of offering free monthly seminars intended to educate, equip and empower mature Oklahomans as they enter new and often uncharted territories. This year, the series will focus more on a person’s stage in life rather than on a person's age.

The 2024 series begins on January 11 at 10 a.m. in the Atrium at Crossings Community Church with the “The Truth about Longevity: Stage Versus Age.” “In a world where age often defines one's abilities and limitations, this seminar challenges these stereotypes and encourages attendees to embrace the full spectrum of our life's journey,” said series organizer Dr. Nikki Buckelew, PhD. Buckelew is a native Oklahoman and nationally recognized speaker, educator, and coach known for her ability to deliver tough topics with enthusiasm and candor.

She said the first seminar will set the tone for coming sessions and will help attendees gain a better understanding of the distinction between lifespan (an age concept) and healthspan (a stage concept).

“Three people, all seventy years old, while the same age, may not have the same needs,” Buckelew said.

“We have to be sensitive to this and share information that meets everyone at their unique stage in life.”

She highlighted topics for the first quarter of 2024. The remainder of the year’s schedule is available at www.seniorlivingtruthseries.com.

The February 8 topic is “The Truth about Staying Purposeful at Every Stage of Life.”

ESA update Jacque Cantrel, president of Gamma Zeta, a chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, an international service organization, presented JoAnn Bullard with her 20 year pin.

Bullard received a recognition certificate from The Tulsa Area Council of Epsilon Sigma Alpha and the local Gamma Zeta chapter for her unwavering support over the last 20 years. Bullard has created hundreds of necklaces and bracelets for U R Special clothing distribution 3 times each year. Bullard is making a difference in the Edmond community. Her enthusiasm and joy are infectious. She is an invaluable member of this local service sorority. Bullard said, “ I can’t imagine being a part of something more rewarding than ESA.”

“Whether you're planning to retire (or already have) or considering an alternative path, this discussion promises to offer fresh perspectives and truths often not shared,” Buckelew said.

The March 14 topic is “The Quest for Truth: Medicine, Healthcare, and Aging.”

“While we may not have all the answers, our seminar aims to empower you by providing key questions and trusted resources,” she said. “Join us for an enlightening discussion that navigates the complexities of healthcare, challenges the status quo, and points you in the right direction for informed decision-making in your unique stage of life.”

About a dozen education partners work with the Senior Living Truth Series to ensure a broad range of input to meet attendees’ needs.

Education partners donate time, money, space, and resources so that programming can be provided at no cost to participants. While targeted toward mature adults in various stages, anyone is welcome to attend.

“We welcome anyone who believes the information would be valuable to them,” Buckelew said. “If you are not a senior (yet), but are seeking information to navigate your own stages in life as you mature, please join us.”

Thanks to Crossings Community Church which provides space for the 90-minute seminars held on the second Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. in the Atrium at Crossings Community Church, 14600 N Portland.

Pre-registration is available at www.seniorlivingtruthseries.com or by calling (405) 563-7501.

The 2024 series begins on January 11 at 10 a.m. in the Atrium at Crossings Community Church with the ‘The Truth about Longevity: Stage Versus Age.’

To know more Nikki Buckelew

(405) 563-7501.

Page 4 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Merry Christmas to those who serve To highlight those who serve our country in the line of duty over the holidays, I try to find war stories that do just that. It points out that while the rest of us are home by a warm fire, these men and women are out keeping us free and allowing us to enjoy time with our families.

Our son who is in federal service is going to be home for Ray Hibbard Christmas this year and we are thrilled. No one is happier than his wife and two children. It sure makes you appreciate them when they are away. Here are a few examples of the notable events that can take place over Christmas from the history books.

General George Washington's commitment to cross the Delaware River on Christmas 1776 foreshadowed the many hardships faced as well as the eventual victory of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. At first glance, the decision to transport 2,400 Continental soldiers across an icy river in one night, directly into a severe winter storm of sleet and snow seems irrational.

Washington's decision, however, was based on strategic motivation, understanding that the Continental Army desperately needed a victory after months of intense fighting with several significant defeats and no major victories. Washington also understood that the element of surprise was the only way that he and his army stood a chance of defeating the highly trained Hessian mercenaries.

It seems the Hessian’s were known for the amount of drinking they did at Christmas.

On the morning of December 25, 1776, Continental soldiers woke up in their camps along the Delaware River to frozen, snow-covered ground.

Weather conditions worsened and temperatures continued to drop throughout the day. Late in the afternoon, the Continentals left their tents and began to form along the river in anticipation of the night's events. Washington kept almost all the details of the crossing a secret; as a result, none of the soldiers knew anything about their upcoming mission.

Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River on December 25, 1776, allowed his army to strike the Hessians at Trenton the next morning.

Washington's plan was to cross the river at night, march to the nearby town of Trenton, New Jersey, and attack the Hessian garrison right before dawn. Time was Washington's greatest enemy; to combat it his orders called for the various regiments to assemble at their designated crossing points no later than sunset. The close proximity to the crossing points allowed the soldiers to begin the journey immediately after nightfall struck and complete the crossing no later than midnight. Once across, Washington intended for the armies to reassemble and march approximately ten miles to Trenton, arriving there no later than five o'clock in the morning to achieve surprise. Despite his meticulous planning, the schedule failed almost before it even began.

Many of the regiments did not arrive at the river until well after dark. Additionally, a severe winter storm that included wind, rain, snow, hail,

and sleet met the soldiers at the banks of the river significantly slowing their crossing. Many of the boats had to combat ice jams and unfavorable currents. To make matters even worse, the extreme darkness caused by the storm made it hard for the boatmen to see the opposite shore.

The necessity of using larger ferries to carry pieces of artillery across the river caused even more delays. Washington crossed the river with John Glover's Marblehead mariners and upon arrival debated whether or not to cancel the entire operation because it was more than three hours behind schedule. Washington decided it was too costly to retreat and he painfully watched as his army continued to trickle across the river.

The freezing and tired Continental Army assembled on the Jersey shore without any major debacles. Once ready, Washington led his army on the road to Trenton. It was there that he secured the Continental Army's first major military victory of the war. Without the determination, resiliency, and leadership exhibited by Washington while crossing the Delaware River the victory at Trenton would not have been possible.

fortress bombers flown in from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.

The only day that both sides got a reprieve was Christmas, when troops were given a 36-hour break to celebrate. During that time, Nixon ordered the North Vietnamese to return to the bargaining table. The North Vietnamese refused, so the bombings continued until Dec. 29, when they agreed to resume peace talks.

In 11 days, Linebacker II dropped 15,000 tons of bombs via 729 U.S. Air Force sorties involving about 12,000 airmen. Defense Department records show the raids destroyed or damaged 1,600 structures, five hundred rail targets, ten airfields and 80 percent of North Vietnam's electricgenerating capacity. Fifteen U.S. B-52s were also destroyed in the process, killing thirty-five men and leading to the capture of nearly 40 American prisoners of war.

The resumed peace talks that came from the campaign led to the Paris Peace Accords in January 1973. The U.S. ended its involvement in the war soon after, but the last American troops would not leave the country for another two years.

1864: The First Battle of Fort Fisher For most of the Civil War, North Carolina's Fort Fisher saw very little combat. But that changed on Christmas 1864, when the Union decided it wanted to capture the last port the Confederates held on the Atlantic Ocean.

It was a debacle for the Union.

First, the Union tried to pack a warship with explosives and blow up the fort's walls — but that did not work. It just blew up their ship and alerted the Confederates of an imminent attack.

So, on Christmas Eve, the Union tried again, bombarding the fort with heavy gunfire, most of which fell short or missed its target.

On Christmas morning, Union commanders decided to shell an area north of the fort so troops could land and come ashore. But when they did, more disappointment followed — the fort's heavy artillery was completely unscathed, so that was a no-go, too. It was only then that the Union ordered troops to retreat.

While the first Battle of Fort Fisher was a massive failure for the Union, the second was not. In mid-January 1865, Union troops were finally able to capture the fort, effectively cutting the Confederates off from global trade and supplies. The Civil War ended three months later.

1972: Operation Linebacker II in North Vietnam A B-52 Stratofortress bomber takes off from a runway.

American troops were in the middle of the biggest bombing mission in military history during the Christmas season of 1972. The air campaign, called Operation Linebacker II, has largely been considered the action that ended U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. President Richard Nixon ordered the bombings to begin on Dec. 18 after North Vietnamese delegates walked out on peace talks. Nicknamed the "11 Days of Christmas," the operation consisted of eleven successive days of raids by B-52 Strato-

1896: "Stars and Stripes Forever" is Written An old photo of the John Philip Sousa Band playing while American flags wave.

While this was not exactly a military action, it is definitely a symbol of America's military might.

John Philip Sousa, who grew up during the Civil War, was a talented musician who became a long-time director of the U.S. Marine Band.

Known as the "March King," he was a rock star of his time, eventually starting his own band in 1892.

On Christmas Day 1896, while crossing the Atlantic on his way home from a European vacation, Sousa's lasting legacy came to him. He said the notes for "Stars and Stripes Forever" were born out of homesickness and fond memories of his time as the Marine Band's leader.

The iconic song officially became America's national march in 1987.

So, this holiday season, while you are enjoying leave, family, friends and feasts, think of some of your fellow troops, past and present, who had to forgo their holidays for the greater good of the country. While you are at it, you might even want to put on "Stars and Stripes Forever" in their honor.

Merry Christmas to all our readers!

(Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- Weekend calendar ......................................................................Page 6.

---- Senior news ................................................................................Page 8.

---- Experience Edmond. ..................................................................Page 9.

---- How do you feel about cameras to catch speeders? ................Page 10.

---- Kimberly Burk’s trip to Virginia ................................................Page 11.

---- Geprge Gust’s reviews movie, ‘Wonka’ ..................................Page 14.

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

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

---- Church directory ......................................................................Page 19.

This, and so much more, in this week’s edition

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

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

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

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

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

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com Production Deanne York Advertising Director Business Editor Alexx 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 All rights reserved.

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 5

Spotlight City Source Edmond

City’s trail system & its journey of connecting Edmond From City Source Edmond Nationwide, the use of alternative forms of transportation, such as bicycling, is gaining momentum for a variety of reasons. It serves as a health-conscious choice for individuals, fosters community bonding through recreational activities, and contributes to improved air quality. This shift towards a more bicycle-friendly infrastructure is a testament to the growing recognition of cycling’s numerous benefits.

The City of Edmond has a rich history of promoting bicycling, leading to a comprehensive planning approach for new bicycle infrastructure.

Factors like travel patterns, collision data, equitable alternatives, costs and environmental impacts are all considered when working toward projects to maintain, enhance and expand the trails systems around Edmond.

“Edmond residents continue to recognize the importance of having easy access to active mobility modes,” said Ken Bryan, long-range planner for the City of Edmond. “In 2022, people said the pedestrian network and the bicycle network were their highest priorities for improvement and challenged the City to embed these priorities into the community’s mobility planning efforts and projects.”

Edmond’s journey toward a comprehensive trail plan began in 1980 with the construction of the first 1½-mile trail at Hafer Park. This was followed by the addition of 2½-miles at Mitch Park in 1994.

As Edmond continued to grow and develop, the demand for a well-planned community trail network increased among its residents.

The 1999 Edmond Trails and Sidewalk Master Plan laid out a comprehensive network of trails and bicycle/pedestrian corridors for the city. In 2002, the Trails Plan Map was incorporated into Edmond Plan III, the City’s comprehensive land use plan. The genesis of this plan can be traced back to “Tomorrow’s Edmond: A Community Dialog,” a document that was the outcome of strategic planning sessions held in 1995 and 1996.

“Tomorrow’s Edmond” outlined several goals, one of which was fostering a “Connected Citizenry.” The most favored method for achieving this was through the establishment of a community-wide network of pedestrian and bicycling paths. Also important was traffic design and planning. Other key objectives included identifying development opportunities and creating

Bike fans on one of the city’s trails. neighborhood parks.

The 1999 Edmond Trails and Sidewalk Master Plan aimed to enhance community access to outdoor resources by establishing a network of offroad multi-purpose trails. It addressed the trail needs related to recreation, transportation and economic pursuits and identified 37 corridors throughout Edmond that would be developed over 15 years, which gave birth to a network of City trails that traverse geographically diverse hotspots in Edmond.

The Fink Park trail stretches for 1¼ miles, connecting Fink Park south of UCO with Hafer Park on Bryant Ave. The Mitch Park/Coffee Creek Trails offer a more extensive journey encompassing 6½ miles. The Fox Lake Trail provides a shorter 1-mile route at 15th Street and I-35 and connects with the Spring Creek Trail, which traverses underneath I-35, leading to Arcadia Lake. The Spring Creek Trail measures 3 miles and will soon connect to another existing scenic 3-mile route along Route 66.

Then, in 2013 a significant development was Edmond’s first bicycle lanes installed along both sides of University Drive, totaling 2 miles between 2nd Street and Chowing Avenue.

Altogether, the number of bicycle and pedestrian facilities implemented, aside from residential sidewalks and mountain biking, totals approxi-

mately 33⅓ miles. The number of shared lane markings total 14 miles, and neighborhood trails total approximately 3 miles. The current focus is on paved trails, protected bike lanes and wayfinding for urban commuters.

The City’s vision for a comprehensive trails system has truly transformed the city’s landscape, making it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

In 2012 the Edmond Bicycle Master Plan was published, aimed at helping the Master Plan Goal: Increase the number of people bicycling while minimizing the number of crashes involving bicycles by providing safe, comfortable and efficient bicycling conditions, and increasing public awareness and acceptance of bicycles on Edmond streets.

Fast-forward to October 2022 when City Council adopted the EdmondShift Mobility Plan where bicycle infrastructure planning was fully integrated into the City’s transportation planning efforts. EdmondShift is a comprehensive strategic plan that updates and modernizes the City’s mobility network plans, policies and investment decisions. Bicycle infrastructure is now receiving the same consideration as vehicular infrastructure.

More recent developments for bicycle infrastruc-

See Trails, Page 7

Page 6 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

(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.)

Dec. 4 Cody Alan Day, 34 of Oklahoma City. A misdemeanor warrant and a felony warrant Sarah Michelle Flowers, 28 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Alicia Deontra Coulter, 23, of Oakland, Calif.

Non-assault resisting officer.

Hayden Glen Herzberger, 22 homeless. Expired tag, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Gustavo Joseph Hernandez, 30 of Edmond.

Misdemeanor warrant.

Dec. 5 Kyle Denver Wendland, 23 of Oklahoma City.

Purchase, procure, possess obscene material.

(Felony) Publication, distribution or participation of obscene material or child ponorgraphy – unsolicited mailings.

Dominique Eugene Jasper Jr., 18 of Edmond.

Shoplifting.

Derek Edwin Conaster, 43 homeless. Possess drug paraphernalia and two counts possession of CDS. Alexander Terrill Bradley, 21 of Edmond. Expired tag – one to three months over, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Tara Lynn McCoun, 32 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Raylee Chevelle Hill, 19 of Bartlesville. Shoplifting.

Kylee Madison Taylor, 18 of Sand Springs.

Shoplifting.

Abigail Ruth Williams, 18 of Sand Springs.

Shoplifting.

Dec. 6 Kamilah Jaylaa Maciel, 20 of Del City. Public intoxication. ‘ Barry Nicholas Edson, 44 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS. Ashley Dawn Lewis, 36 of Perkins. Shoplifting.

Jennifer Louise Rose, 59 of Perkins. Shoplifting.

Keith Donnell Doolin Jr., 34 of Oklahoma City.

Shoplifting.

Aimee Joelle Mitchell, 29 of Luther. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

Dec. 7 Misty Denae Brunson, 39 of Edmond. Operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Jesse Wayne McDonald, 48 of Edmond. Vehicle theft, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and a felony warrant.

Yanamont B. Dariansssen, 50 homeless. A felony warrant.

Syeda Masooma Abedi, homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Yolanda Nicole Davis-Diop, 46 of Bethany.

Felony warrant.

Dec. 8 Caden Garret Powell, 24 of Edmond. Operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Joseph Christopher Giammona, 40 of Edmond.

Felony warrant.

Miguel Angel Cruz-Gonzalez, 37 of Edmond.

Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Fredi Cruz-Gonzalez, 36. Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .15 or more.

Aaron Robert Morehead, 40 of Edmond. Nonassault resisting an officer and public intoxication.

Ivan Mares, 25 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Shane Michael McGowen, 26 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting.

Morgan James Ashley Mullins, 21 of Edmond.

Shoplifting.

Luis Angel Suarez, 59 of Edmond. Possession of CDS, obstruction of a police officer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Jaime Sandoval, 52 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Dec. 9 Jordan Crae Brooks, 30 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Sabriyah Hadiah Perkins, 24 homeless. Failure to appear.

Camaryn Sara Blumears, 24 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Gary Allen Maldonado, 52 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Richard Lee Kirkpatrick II, 41 of Oklahoma City.

Public intoxication.

Gabriel Michael Acosta, 28 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Hunter Kye Rider, 32 of Oklahoma City. Resisting arrest, assault & battery/battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff, possess CDS, two felony warrants, a misdemeanor warrant and no proof of insurance.

Kimberly Juanita Thomas, 36 of Altamonte Springs, Fla. Possession of altered ID card, (Felony value) possess incomplete credit cards or tools to reproduce card, (felony) false or bogus check (evidence of intent to defraud and knowledge of insufficient funds) and unlawfully presenting false documents to a financial institute.

Li Yue, 33 of San Dimas, Calif. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Gaomin Zheng, 34 of Monterey Park, Calif. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Lichun Yu, 38 of Rosemead, Calif. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Weiqiang Zhou, 32 of Monterey, Calif. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Yun Dun Dun Zheng, 38 of Lawerenceville, Ga. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Fenshou Chen, 60 of Edmond. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Guangjin Lin, 51 of Barnsdall. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Brian Bae, 31 of Lawerenceville, Ga. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Bin Chin, 34 of Duluth, Ga. Possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Michael Wayne Hoffman, 60 of Glenco, Okla.

Public intoxication.

Jennifer Jean Satterwhite, 59 homeless. Failure to appear.

Miles Anthony Meador, 19 of Texas. Public intoxication.

Tina Marie Rios, 25 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Christopher Bouie, 35 of Oklahoma City. Two misdemeanor warrants and a felony warrant.

Dec, 10 Michael Wayne McGuire, 38 of Guthrie. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

E N Carl Johnson, 18 of Guthrie. Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

Robert Andy Richter, 22 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Weekend Calendar of Events, Dec. 21-24 Weekend Calendar of Events Dec 21 - 24

earts.com

---- In the Gallery ---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 ---2020 ---- Edmond’s Social Fabric ---- Beginners Pickleball Club ---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Edmond Electric’s Luminance – An Enchanted Stroll ---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Miranda Family Lights ---- Downtown in December ---- Live Music at Frenzy ---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events ---- Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale ---- PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market ---- Red Earth Treefest ---- The Polar Express ---- Limo Holiday Lights Tours ---- Winter Glow ---- Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” ---- Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol ---- Myriad & Bright ---- Holiday Pop-Up Shops ---- A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas ---- Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents: Jane Austen’s “Christmas Cracker” ---- Holiday Light Ride

Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020 Location: Edmond History Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jul 1 – Sun, Dec 31; visitedmondok.com

Extra Information

Edmond Electric’s Luminance – An Enchanted Stroll Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Fri, Nov 17 – Mon, Jan 1; 5 – 10 p.m.; edmondlights.com

In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring Reian Williams; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu ; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfin-

Edmond’s Social Fabric Location: Edmond History Museum Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1 – Sun, Mar 31; free; 10 a.m.

– 5 p.m.; edmondhistory.org Beginners Pickleball Club Location: Kickingbird Pickleball Center Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sat, Dec 30; 8 – 10:30 a.m.; Free; edmondok.com OKC Zoo Safari Lights Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11 – Sun, Jan 1; 5:30 – 11 p.m.; okczoo.org Edmond Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 4 – Mon, Jan 15; $10 ---- $14; edmondicerink.com Devon Ice Rink Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10 – Sat, Jan 29; Mon – Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 16; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; edmondparks.com Miranda Family Lights Location: 19544 Talavera Lane Extra Info: Fri, Dec 1 – Tue, Dec 26; 6 – 8 p.m.; Facrebook.com Live Music at Frenzy Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Thu, Dec 21: The Brave Amigos @ 7 p.m.; Fri, Dec 22: Kohn the Franklin @ 8 p.m.; Sat, Dec 23: Steve Brann @ 7:30 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, Dec 23 ---- Sun, Dec 24: Signature Tour @ 1 – 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Oct 6 – Tue Jan 2; tcaa.nationalcowboymuseum.org PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market Location: Northpark Mall Extra Info: Through Sun, Dec 24; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; pambeghana.org Red Earth Treefest Location: BancFirst Tower, OKC Extra Info: Wed, Nov 15 – Fri, Dec 29; 9 a.m. – 5

See Calendar, Page 7

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 7

Trails

Calendar From Page 5

ture are equally promising. This year, the City was awarded $3 million from ODOT for trail improvements around Lake Arcadia, which will connect many parks in the area, and was awarded $320,000 through ACOG to connect Vista Lane to Hafer Park.

This trail will provide easier access for residents on the north side of the park.

Moreover, the recently completed Ayers Bike Lanes on the east and west sides of the UCO campus will be extended to the east end of KickingBird Road, thanks to a grant from the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG). The City is also almost ready to start working on Phase 1 of the Creek Bend Trail which will connect trails on the east side of I-35 to Coltrane Road. That trail will be 1¼ miles in length.

Among other grant-funded projects are: • SH66 Trail from Post to Westminster: $1 million in grant funds with a $837,000 match from the City for the 1-mile project.

• Route 66 Trail Connector-Midwest Boulevard to Spring Creek: $1 million in grant funds with a $2.3 million match from the City for a 1⅘ miles project.

• Spring Creek Trail to Carl Reherman Park: $1 million in grant funds with a $1.8 million match from the City for the 2-mile project.

• Bicycle Wayfinding Signage: $105,009 in grant funds with a $45,004 match from the City.

The future of bicycle planning in Edmond remains promising. The in-

ception of a Mobility Commission, the unwavering dedication of an active Bicycle Committee, and the continued commitment from City staff are all converging to ensure transportation alternatives are not just an afterthought, but a priority. This includes meticulous planning and implementation of a comprehensive bicycle network, as well as seizing strategic opportunities that may involve the development community.

But the heart of these initiatives is the community itself. The participation and involvement of Edmond’s citizens are the driving force behind these efforts, reflecting the vision for “Tomorrow’s Edmond.” This vision is not just about creating a city that moves, but a city that moves together, towards a future where every journey is an experience, and every destination is just the beginning of another adventure.

“Our trails system creates a healthy gateway for people to traverse the city and connect with nature up close, as well as with each other,” said Darrell A. Davis, Mayor of Edmond and an avid cyclist. “But, beyond the obvious health benefits, our growing trails system is an attraction for the people visiting Edmond and beyond. It promotes connectivity both in our community and with Oklahoma City and communities around the region. It’s a worthwhile investment that was needed both for today and for the benefits it will provide in the future.”

Learn more about what’s happening around the City at www.edmondok.gov/CitySource.

From Page 6 p.m.; redearth.org

myriadgardens.org

Downtown in December Location: Downtown OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 16 – Sun, Feb 4; various events; downtownindecember.com

Holiday Pop-Up Shops Location: Strata Tower, OKC Extra Info: through Fri, Dec 22; okcpopups.com

The Polar Express Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum Extra Info: Sat, Nov 11 – Wed, Dec 27; Showtimes: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m.; oklahomarailwaymuseum.org Limo Holiday Lights Tours Location: Citywide, OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 23 – Sat, Dec 30; viplimo.net Winter Glow Location: Riversport OKC Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sat, Dec 30; Mon – Thu: 4 – 8 p.m.; Fri: 5 – 8 p.m.; Sat: 1 – 8 p.m.; Sun: 1 – 6 p.m.; riversportokc.org Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” Location: Lyric at the Plaza Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sun, Dec 24; Tue – Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri – Sun: 2 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 7 p.m.; lyrictheatreokc.com Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol Location: Pollard Theatre, 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sat, Dec 23; Thu & Fri: 8 p.m.; Sat: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; thepollard.org Myriad & Bright Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 24 – Sun, Dec 24;

Spring Creek Trail

A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas Location: Cottonwoods Flats, Guthrie Extra Info: Sun, Nov 26 – Mon, Jan 1; Mon – Thu: 6 – 9 p.m.; Thu: 6 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 5 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 5 – 11:30 p.m.; Sun: 6 – 9 a.m.; travelok.com Okla. Shakespeare in the Park presents: Jane Austen’s “Christmas Cracker” Location: 2920 Paseo Extra Info: Thu, Dec 7 – Sat, Dec 23; Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; okshakes.org Holiday Light Ride Location: Ride OKC Extra Info: Thu, Dec 21; rideokc.com

Page 8 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

A new director is named for Senior Volunteer Program The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Central Oklahoma has named a new executive director. Laura McRaniels will fill the position following the retirement of McRaniels Beth Patterson on Dec. 31.

McRaniels, who was named as the organization’s assistant director in 2022, joined RSVP in 2018 and served as the organization’s volunteer coordinator linking more than 500 older adults to volunteer opportunities with 124 local nonprofit organizations.

“It is an honor to pass on the reins to Laura,” Patterson said. “In addition to Laura’s genuine compassion for people through her words and actions every day, she has such insight, problem-solving skills, follow-through, and attention to detail that make her

an excellent person for this role.”

Prior to joining RSVP, McRaniels owned her own in-home childcare business, and served as a direct care specialist with the J.D. McCarty Center. She joined RSVP as the administrative assistant and was appointed to volunteer coordinator in 2018. She completed all tiers of the Nonprofit Management Certification program through the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. McRaniels has a longtime dedication to volunteerism, serving since 2008 with D-Dent, Inc. and West Wind Unitarian Universalist Congregation.

About RSVP of Cen. Oklahoma: Since 1973, RSVP of Central Oklahoma has helped older adults continue to live with purpose and meaning by connecting them with rewarding community volunteer opportunities. RSVP is a partner of AmeriCorps Seniors and the United Way of Central Oklahoma.

Pugh wants retired military to be teachers Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, has filed legislation to attract military retirees from around the country to Oklahoma’s classrooms.

Senate Bill 1311 would create the Veterans Entering Teaching (VET) Act and pay for veterans’ schoolPugh ing to become educators if they agreed to teach in the state for three consecutive years.

“We’ve made tremendous strides in the last couple of years to get more teachers in our classrooms, but we still currently have more than 3,700 positions being filled by emergency certified teachers. We’re grateful for these individuals stepping up and helping in our time of need but we’re missing a major opportunity to utilize our highly trained and qualified military veterans as they look to begin their second career,” Pugh said. “We need certified teachers, and this is an opportunity to let America’s heroes utilize their vast expertise and experience to guide Oklahoma’s future generations.”

The VET Program would create a revolving fund to provide tuition and mandatory fee assistance for up to five years to students to earn a degree from an approved teacher preparation program at an institution of higher education within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. To qualify, veterans must have been honorably discharged from the military within three years of enrollment. Students would be required to sign an agreement that they would earn a bachelor’s degree from an approved teacher preparation program, meet teacher certification requirements, and agree to teach in a school district for three consecutive years. Those who failed to comply with the agreement would be required to repay their assistance or get a hardship waiver.

“We’ve been working hard to make Oklahoma the top state for veterans, and this is just another opportunity to

help entice them to make our great state their home,” Pugh said. “Not only would they be helping strengthen our education system by filling these teaching gaps and sharing their incredible skills, knowledge, and leadership with Oklahoma’s students, they’d also be providing a much-needed economic boost for our local communities and state.”

SB 1311 will be available for consideration when the Legislature convenes in February.

——Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, and Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore, have filed a resolution to affirm support of Israel and to condemn Hamas. The resolution can be considered by the Oklahoma Legislature when it convenes in February. The resolution expresses an unwavering commitment to the welfare, security and survival of the State of Israel. It also calls on state law enforcement agencies to be vigilant in protecting Israeli Americans from crime and discrimination and calls on the federal government to aid Israel in its defense against Hamas and all other terrorist organizations.

“Even though we cannot adopt this resolution until February, we think it important in this season of Hanukkah to let our fellow Oklahomans of the Jewish faith and Israeli citizens in our state know that we stand with them in support of the Nation State of Israel and the Jewish people,” Daniels said.

Lepak added, "Hamas is a terrorist organization, and what they did on October 7 is undeniably evil. Israel has the right, and should, rid itself of that threat. There is no equivocating on this point."

A dozen state legislatures have already adopted the resolution, which was drafted by the Federalism and International Relations Task Force of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Daniels and Lepak are state legislative chairs for ALEC and Daniels serves on the board.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 9

Jennifer Thornton and Perry Sneed at Edmond’s historic schoolhouse.

Promoting Route 66 attractions

By Jennifer Thornton Tourism Director In the early 2000s, Hampton Inn’s Save a Landmark program launched a 66-day caravan along the Mother Road to highlight various sites along the famous highway. These signs, now decades old, became worn and weathered over the years. The Oklahoma Route 66 Association started a program in 2022 to replace the faded and missing signs across the state with the help of donations from Edmond Cycle 66. “Cycle 66 donated $5,000 and those funds kickstarted the momentum to put new signs in front of Route 66 attractions,” said Rhys Martin, president of Oklahoma Route 66 Association.

The Edmond Historical Preservation Trust added a sign in front of the

1889 Territorial Schoolhouse at 124 E 2nd Street. Perry Sneed, EHPT board member, said, “Many visitors drive right past our schoolhouse. This sign will help us welcome more people.”

Visit Edmond added a sign in front of the Blue Hippo at 1129 South Broadway. Teresa Fisher, owner of Glass Solutions, said, “Route 66 travelers love stopping by to snap a selfie with our quirky Blue Hippo. The roadside attraction sign will help them find us.”

The City of Edmond installed the new Route 66 attraction signs that will draw attention to Edmond as we head towards the Route 66 Centennial in 2026. The more signage we can provide for area attractions, the more likely visitors are to stop and potentially shop and dine in Edmond.

Another attraction is the Blue Hippo. With the Blue Hippo are Jennifer Thornton, Tourism Director, right; and Teresa Fisher, owner of Glass Solutions.

Page 10 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Speed camera woes

By Steve Gust I don’t believe I'm a fan of cameras that look for speeders.

Those cameras, in other countries and other states, can get a picture of your car and license plate and ticket you. You come home from work one day tired and in your mailbox is a speeding ticket. Oh joy!

The way I understand it, we don’t have these lovely devices in Oklahoma yet. I think that’s a good thing.

And let me strongly state that I do not mean to trivialize the problem of speeding. Too many people drive too fast. That can have tragic results. It may have even happened to you or someone you know. Speeding is bad and dangerous.

I’m not sure the cameras are the answer. Here’s one reason why. Take for instance driving on Broadway. From just south of Memorial Road area to downtown Edmond – there are six speed zones. That’s right. six. Just south of Memorial it’s 60 mph. Then it changes to 55. By the time you get to the “Welcome to Edmond” sign, it’s 45. Near 15th Street it goes to 35. Just south of downtown it’s 30. And when you get to downtown Edmond it’s 20.

There are thousands of cars taking that stretch of road every day and I se-

riously doubt that anyone has strictly obeyed every speed zone. People are used to going 60 mph and then a sign pops up and says it’s 55. Most people keep going 60 but gradually lower their velocity.

If you have speed cameras along this stretch the state would collect enough money to retire the national debt.

I believe you need the human element to issue speeding citations. Don’t forget that posted speed limits may be way too fast for someone driving on snow, sleet or heavy rain. But the speed camera doesn’t know that.

That’s one reason why I prefer the judgment of law enforcement.

And what happens when the mechanic, who fixes your brakes, test drives your car and speeds? You’re getting the ticket. You can protest, but I understand you have to give them a fee to challenge it.

I’d like to think most politicians in Oklahoma wouldn’t embrace the cameras. They might tell the feds to jump in a lake. But who knows? Joe Biden and the feds may insist on it. If we don’t bow down to them they withhold funds from us. It’s how the government bullies the states. I’m not a big fan of that either. But more on that for another time.

State lawmakers want to affirm support for Israel Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, and Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore, have filed a resolution to affirm support of Israel and to condemn Hamas. The resolution can be considered by the Oklahoma Legislature when it convenes in February. The resolution expresses an unwavering commitment to the welfare, security and survival of the State of Israel. It also calls on state law enforcement agencies to be vigilant in protecting Israeli Americans from crime and discrimination and calls on the federal government to aid Israel in its defense against Hamas and all other terrorist organizations.

“Even though we cannot adopt this resolution until February, we think it important in this season of Hanukkah to let our fellow Oklahomans of the Jewish faith and Israeli citizens in our state know that we stand with them in support of the Nation State of Israel and the Jewish people,” Daniels said.

Lepak added, "Hamas is a terrorist organization, and what they did on October 7 is undeniably evil. Israel has the right, and should, rid itself of that threat. There is no equivocating on this point."

A dozen state legislatures have already adopted the resolution, which was drafted by the Federalism and International Relations Task Force of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Daniels and Lepak are state legislative chairs for ALEC and Daniels serves on the board.

—— Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, filed legislation recently to better protect the Second Amendment rights of Oklahomans when purchasing firearms.

Senate Bill 1218 would prohibit licensed dealers from denying anyone over the age of 18 from purchasing a firearm based on his or her age unless the customer does not meet state law requirements.

“I have reviewed the Second Amendment many times and you will be relieved to know that it does not have an expiration date, nor is there one on your right to purchase a firearm,” Bullard said. “Unfortunately, we have seen where there was an attempt to deny an Oklahoman the right to own a weapon because they were too old.

This is age discrimination and unconstitutional to boot. This bill has one single purpose. Protect the liberty and Constitutional freedom of all Oklahomans.”

The measure would further require any licensed dealer who receives a denial on a background check conducted through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System based on age to document all evidence of such denial and submit the evidence to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI).

SB 1218 will be available for consideration when the legislative session begins in February.

—— Gross receipts are the total amount of receipts collected by state government.

The state’s gross receipts for FY 2023were $17.4 billion, a 6.0 percent increase from FY 2022 and an all-time high, as Oklahoma’s tax collections benefited from a strong overall economy and record-high oil and gas revenues.

Gross receipts totals are larger than both state appropriations and the state General Revenue Fund, for several reasons. First, gross receipts includes sales and use taxes levied by cities and counties but collected by the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

Mullin pleased with budget for military

By Markwayne Mullin U.S. Senator, R-Oklahoma The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is an annual national security bill that allows Congress to meet its constitutional duty to provide for the common defense. The annual must-pass legislation ensures America’s warfighters and Oklahoma’s installations have the training, equipment, and resources they need to remain the greatest fighting force in the world.

I am thrilled to report that Congress has passed this year’s NDAA, which will now head to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

The Fiscal Year 2024 NDAA authorizes a topline of $886.3 billion for military and national security programs at the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Energy.

It’s a privilege to serve on the Senate Armed Services Committee where we were able to secure major military investments and conservative priorities in this bill, including $152 million for Oklahoma’s military installations, plus another $122 million in funding for Oklahoma’s higher education aerospace programs and defense industry partners. Our five world-class installa-

tions are crucial to our nation’s military readiness, and this funding will provide the resources needed for their continued success.

Our military prowess would be nothing without the men and women who sacrifice their lives to defend our freedom. The annual defense bill includes a historic amount of support for our troops, including a 5.2

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percent pay raise, compensation for anyone who re-enlists following an involuntary separation for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, and extended TRICARE benefits to families of deceased members of the Selected Reserve.

Additionally, the NDAA addresses Biden’s recruitment crisis, requiring the DOD to submit a revised pay table to increase junior enlisted pay as well as pay increases for reserve and veteran JROTC instructors. The bill also returns $400 million in savings from personnel decreases into new recruiting and retention efforts among other provisions.

As conflict and war rage in Eastern Europe and across the Middle East, this legislation confronts our adversaries with hard power and offers critical support to our allies. This year’s NDAA establishes a new U.S. training program with Taiwan and expands the current Pacific Deterrence Initiative in the Western Pacific to confront China head-on. It requires a full public accounting of Chinese military spending to ensure global transparency into the Chinese Communist Party’s military goals and authorizes a key sea-launched nuclear cruise missile program to offset Russian and Chinese tactical nukes, as well as the development of new nuclear gravity bombs to improve deterrence.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 11

Rich heritage & stunning Virginia sights

By Kimberly Burk For Edmond Life and Leisure LEXINGTON, Va. – I had never before seen a dogwood tree in bloom.

But instinctively, I think, I recognized the white four-petaled blossoms with their golden-yellow centers as we stood at a mountain overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Shenandoah National Park.

Dogwoods put on a show every year in the Ozark Mountains. Some of the “town kids” I grew up with in far north Missouri had made the dogwood-peeping pilgrimage with their parents. But farmers did not leave home in April, when beef cows were calving and seed corn was ready to be planted.

Now I’m a town person and it’s April in Virginia, where the American dogwood is the state flower. And I’m witnessing for the first time a vista well known to many of my ancestors.

One might say that the dogwood is in my DNA. My paternal ancestors, John and Esther Henton, were likely traveling with Squire Boone, father of Daniel, when they left Pennsylvania and settled in the Shenandoah Valley in 1751. Their son David was emigrating from Virginia to Kentucky with his wife’s family when he drowned in the Ohio River in 1780.

Other forebearers on both sides of my family lived in Virginia before following a common post-Revolutionary War migration route to newly-opened land in Kentucky and Tennessee and eventually traveling up the Mississippi River to northeast Missouri.

Whether you’re walking in the steps of your ancestors or just love American history, you can learn about the legacies of Lexington and Rockbridge County on the campuses of Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute, and at the Stonewall Jackson House museum. The Lexington Carriage Company offers a narrated tour via

Great places to stay, play and eat The Georges, a 33-room inn with restaurants and events center that occupies five modernized historical buildings on Lexington’s Main Street.

Virginia Safari Park, a 180-acre refuge where you can view and feed animals from your car on three miles of Safari Road. The walk-through village includes an aviary, giraffe feeding station, tiger territory and a penguin house.

Haywood’s Piano Bar and Grill, which uses fresh local ingredients to turn out such favorites as handcut steaks, rack of venison and Chesapeake Bay oysters.

Devil’s Backbone Outpost Tap Room and Kitchen, a hillside venue offering award-winning beers and spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. horse-drawn conveyance that shows off the city’s 18th- and 19th-century architecture including many homes and buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

A stunning 215-foot-tall limestone natural bridge is the centerpiece of nearby Natural Bridge State Park. The county is named for the bridge, which is a National Historic Landmark. Walking trails throughout the park lead to Salt Peter Cave, Lost River and Lace Falls. Natural Bridge was surveyed by George Washington and once owned by Thomas Jefferson, who purchased it in 1773 for just over two pounds and called it “the most sublime of nature’s works.”

Just east of Lexington is the town of Buena Vista, which is an access point to the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers basic services to Appalachian Trail hikers.

The Appalachian National Scenic

KIMBERLY BURK

The limestone bridge is the centerpiece of Natural Bridge State Park near Lexington, Va.

trail is a public footpath across 2,144 miles of Appalachian Mountain ridgelines stretching from Maine to Georgia. A quarter of the trail is in Virginia.

There’s a turnout on the Blue Ridge Parkway at a spot where it intersects with the Appalachian Trail, and during the busy season local “Trail Angels” sometimes park there to offer food and water to hikers.

Thru-hikers are generally well-prepared and know how much water to carry each day, but water is heavy and sometimes they run a bit short, especially on hot days. Such acts of generosity are referred to as Trail Magic.

Hikers also don’t dawdle, and it’s best not to try to engage them as

See Virgina, Page 13

Page 12 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 13

Virginia From Page 11 they soldier on toward their shelters for the night. But I got lucky, because a few hikers who stopped at the turnout to accept bottled water were up for a quick chat.

Two of the men had the trail names of “Not Yet” and “Wolfy.” Not Yet was from Boston and Wolfy from Wilmington, Del. They were both hiking north to south and on the same general timeline so had gotten acquainted with one another.

Retirees are common on the trail, but so are young people. A woman in her 20s said she had taken time off work and her husband was holding down the fort while she lived out her dream.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy website offers tips on how to show some Trail Magic without hindering hikers or damaging the wilderness.

The pioneers who crossed the mountains to settle the Shenandoah Valley mostly left behind the tobacco culture of eastern Virginia and planted wheat instead. These days the land is primarily pasture for cattle, but the terrain also lends itself beautifully to small niche farms and agritourism.

Among the standouts are the Season’s Yield Farm, which sells bread and pastries made by the family in a wood-fired oven; the mountainside Tantivy Lavender farm with a gift shop and hiking trails and the picturesque Ecco Adesso Vineyards and event center.

KIMBERLY BURK (Editor’s note: Freelance travel journal“Not Yet,” left, from Boston, and “Wolfy,” from ist Kimberly Burk was a guest of LexingKIMBERLY BURK Wilmington, Del., pause for a moment during ton and the Rockbridge County Area Dogwood trees bloom alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway in their journey along the Appalachian Trailer. Hikers Tourism.)

Virginia. often adopt “trail names.”

Page 14 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of motion picture ‘Wonka’

Finally a good family holiday film

By George Gust How many times has Hollywood gone to the well for an origin story of a beloved cinematic character?

How many times has this ploy to mine the depths of your childhood nostalgia actually produced a quality film? “Wonka” is a prequel musical film that follows a young Willy Wonka before he became the reclusive and eccentric chocolatier, but would this reimagining of a touchstone character recapture the magic and edge of the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder?

With dreams of opening a shop in a city renowned for its chocolate, a young and poor Willy Wonka (Timothee Chalamet) discovers that the industry is run by a cartel of greedy chocolatiers.

“Wonka” comes to us from the creative talent behind the “Paddington” movies, and if you’ve seen those movies, you can draw a direct line from the charm and joy of those movies that has been transposed onto the Roald Dahl characters and story.

From the first frames you get transported to a whimsical and fantastical world that fits perfectly with the magic you’d want from a live action children’s movie about loving and making chocolate treats. And this whimsical charm is accompanied by back-to-back musical numbers as “Wonka” is through and through

musical film, which may come as a surprise to some with the lack of advertising this movie as a musical.

The cast of “Wonka” feels like a cavalcade of top line British character actors who are all wonderfully cast. From Oscar darling Olivia Coleman leaning into the sharp villainous character that fits with the Roald Dahl tradition of nasty antagonists to the cute but world-weary orphan nicknamed noodled played wonderfully by fresh faced Calah Lane, everywhere you look there are talented actors in even the smallest roles. Hugh Grant also turns in a delightful performance in the few scenes he gets to play the absurdity

of the Oompa Loompa with a mischievous streak.

And while the cast surrounding him is top notch, Chalamet’s Wonka, is more of a steady hand than a standout with a performance that is less edgy than Wilder’s but has a good mixture of optimism and eccentricity.

The result makes “Wonka” feel more of an ensemble than a star vehicle for the titular character.

Overall, “Wonka” is the family movie that we need for this holiday season. Brilliant and colorful visuals amidst a backdrop of a charming “could be any cozy European mountain town” setting that looks and feels like a Christmas village come to life. And while there are some unsavory villainous characters that could scare the youngest in attendance their villainy is mostly harmless and ends up adding more to the emotional stakes of the film.

“Wonka” is rated PG for some violence, mild language and thematic elements.

4 out of 5 stars (You may reach George Gust for comment at gust.george@gmail.com)

Answers on Page 19 Timothee Chalamet stars in ‘Wonka’ the heartfelt musical prequel that is a fun bit of cinematic confectionary.

Some changes for OKC baseball team Oklahoma City’s Triple-A baseball team will undergo a brand identity transition as the organization develops a fresh and local team name.

Effective immediately through the 2024 baseball season, the team will operate under the temporary name of the Oklahoma City Baseball Club. Following the conclusion of the 2024 baseball season, team officials will unveil a new permanent identity.

Although the organization will no longer be known as the Oklahoma City Dodgers, the team will proudly remain the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate under the current Professional Development League license.

“For the last nine years, it has been an honor and a privilege to share one of the most iconic brands in all of professional sports,” said Oklahoma City Baseball Club President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “However, we’re excited this new era affords us the opportunity to strengthen our connection to our community and reinforce that we are Oklahoma City’s team.”

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: COCKTAILS

ACROSS 1. Great divide 6. Priestly vestment 9. Took to court 13. Haile Selassie's disciple 14. 10 decibels 15. *Appletini's ____ schnapps 16. Rose oil 17. Maui garland 18. Birth-related 19. *Old Fashioned liquor option 21. *Gin+vermouth rosso+Campari 23. Not him 24. Bye, in Palermo 25. VA.gov beneficiary 28. Puerto follower 30. Like Ferris Bueller 35. Exclude 37. "____ Your Enthusiasm" 39. Green-light 40. Tiny coffee cup, or ____-tasse 41. Cut mission short 43. Not final or absolute 44. Makes a sweater 46. Wing-shaped 47. Bird, in Latin 48. One with drug dependency 50. Do like a frog 52. A U.S. time zone 53. Dance with #17 Across 55. Anatomical duct 57. *It usually comes in a conical glass 61. *Popular cocktail mixer 65. Spy's other name 66. Knicks' org.

68. Give a speech 69. Clan emblem 70. Party barrel 71. Clean a spill (2 words) 72. Part of pump 73. Sargasso or Barents 74. Same as apse DOWN 1. Sticking point, in alimentary tract 2. Possesses, archaic 3. *Bellini with ____ Spumante 4. Squirrel away 5. a.k.a. felt-pen

6. Competently 7. M tley Cr e's Tommy ____ 8. Russian pancakes 9. Practice in the ring 10. As far as (2 words) 11. Distinctive flair 12. Place for a hero 15. Fluffy sweater material 20. "All My Children" vixen ____ Kane 22. 2010 Movie "____ Pray Love" 24. Toyota model 25. *Moscow Mule spirit 26. Make corrections 27. Shy 29. *____ Libre 31. Forearm bone 32. Not dead 33. Honkers 34. *Lemon or orange piece 36. South American monkey

38. Highlands hillside 42. Crossbeam 45. Religious split 49. 252-gallon wine cask 51. *Tequila+grapefruit juice+sparkling water 54. Kind of golf course 56. Razor sharpener 57. S.A.T. section 58. Balm ingredient 59. Baptism or shiva, e.g.

60. Asian weight unit 61. John Galsworthy's "The Forsyte ____" 62. Nukes 63. Sewing case 64. Gym set 67. *____'s Knees

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 15

Five strategies to use for business success

By Jim Denton, CPA/PFS, CGMA Partner Emeritus/Wealth Management Advisor Owning a business offers a unique opportunity to shape your family's financial future. Let's explore five key strategies for financial success: 1. The Profitability Bucket: Profitability is the cornerstone of wealth creation for business owners.

By generating profits and distributing them to yourself, you can enhance your personal wealth. Diversifying your investments beyond your business helps mitigate concentrations of risk.

2. The Retirement Bucket: . Consider establishing qualified retirement plans like a 401(k) for yourself and your employees. Beyond the ubiquitous 401(k), there are additional plans that owners can implement to contribute more for their retirement in certain cases.

While these plans offer tax advantages and promote long-term wealth accumulation, such retirement arrangements may increase costs as well as lose value in the investment markets.

3. The Leased Asset Bucket: Whether you lease or buy assets like property or equipment, it's a taxadvantaged way to accumulate wealth. Buying them outside of the main business entity allows for fair and reasonable leasing agreements that can provide asset protection and continue generating income even in retirement.

4. The Life Insurance Bucket: Life insurance plays a vital role in

securing your business and family's financial stability. It can fund buy-sell agreements as well as ensure a smooth transition in the event of a key person's passing. Some premiums may be tax-deductible, and death benefits are often tax-free. A paid-up permanent life insurance policy is a great retirement benefit for a departing owner.

5. The Business Succession Bucket: Profitability is key to making your business an attractive prospect for successors. Effective succession planning is essential. Business succession requires clearly defined goals and plans, ensuring a seamless transfer of ownership. The aim is to sell for substantial proceeds and reduce the concentration of your assets in a single business.

In conclusion, these five financial strategies can help provide distinct avenues to help with your family's financial story. Properly executed, they can lead to long-term wealth and financial security.

Jim Denton, CPA/PFS, CGMA is Partner Emeritus of Arledge & Associates, PC where he is responsible for providing leadership to the firm’s Wealth Management firm, Summit Capital Advisors, LLC. Mr. Denton empowers his clients, so they may live their best life. He may be reached by email at jim.denton@arledge.cpa Securities offered through Avantax Investment ServicesSM. Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Avantax Advisory ServicesSM. Insurance services offered through an Avantax affiliated insurance agency.

Jim Denton

‘Business ownership allows you to plan for retirement effectively.’

Page 16 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Expect strong holiday travel, AAA predicts A strong desire to travel has been driving holiday travel volume all year, and the end of the year holiday season is no exception. Airports across the nation will be especially busy this year with record-breaking numbers.

“If there is one thing we have seen throughout the year, it is pent-up demand for travel,” says Rylie Fletcher, public affairs manager, AAA Oklahoma. “Whether people are hitting the road for a visit with friends and family, or planning a more significant getaway, there is little discouraging them.”

AAA expects both the roads and the airports to be extremely busy from December 23 through New Year’s Day, as they have been over most holiday weekends this year.

Nationally, AAA projects 115.2 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the 10-day year-end holiday travel period. This

year’s total number of travelers is a 2.2% increase over last year and the second highest year-end travel forecast since AAA began tracking holiday travel in 2000.

In Oklahoma, AAA projects nearly 1.1 million Oklahomans will travel over the 10-day year-end holiday travel period. That is a 1.2% increase over last year.

Road Travel Most holiday travelers are going by car as AAA expects nearly 104 million people will drive to their holiday destinations, an increase of 1.8% compared to 2022. Locally, it is expected that over 1 million Oklahomans will drive.

Air Travel AAA projects 7.5 million air travlers across the country this holiday season, suprassing 2019’s record of 7.3 million passengers. In Oklahoma, that number is also up this year.

Helping the food bank Oklahoma consistently ranks as one of the hungriest states in the nation. This holiday season, donations to fight hunger in Oklahoma are doubled in impact thanks to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma's Holiday Match. Through Jan. 15, all donations will be matched, up to $450,000, thanks to APMEX, the Cresap Family Foundation and other generous donors.

“As we approach the festive season, our community faces unprecedented challenges, and the need for support has never been more critical,” said John Cresap, president of the Cresap Family Foundation.

“Supporting the Regional Food Bank allows us to join together as a community and make a meaningful impact on the lives of our fellow Oklahomans. Together, we can bring warmth, nourishment and hope to our neighbors who need it most.”

Typically, the Regional Food Bank is able to provide four meals for every $1 donated. During the match, every dollar will help provide eight meals to Oklahomans living with hunger.

"As we near the end of the year, we urge everyone to use this time to make a tax-deductible donation to help provide much needed meals and nutrition to Oklahoma families," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank.

Help deliver hope this holiday season by making a donation at rfbo.org/give or by calling 405-6003161. Donations may also be mailed to: Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma Holiday Match P.O. Box 270968 Oklahoma City, OK, 73137-0968 An automatic $10 donation can also be made by texting the word "Food" to 501-501.

Gardening courses offered The Oklahoma County Master Gardeners are pleased to once again offer their fun and intensive three-day workshop for novices and experienced gardeners alike: Home Gardening 101. Held on three successive Saturdays in early spring, this quality program offers university-based horticulture education by expert presenters to help get the growing season off right. Enrollment in HG101 is a wonderful idea for holiday gifting to the green thumbs and plant lovers in your life.

Topics will include: Sustainable gardening practices; Working with and improving Oklahoma soils; Home composting; Landscape and lawn management; Smart irrigation and water conservation; Vegetable and flower gardening; Native plants; Houseplants; Insects and plant diseases, and much more.

HG 101 will be held at the OSU Extension Conference Center at 2500 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City, OK, 73111 on these Saturdays: February 10, February 17, and February 24, 2024. Classes are from 9am to 3pm each Saturday. Bringing a sack lunch is suggested.

For more information about HG 101, please call 405.713.1125. Registration in advance is required.

The complete three-day workshop and all materials cost only $75.00. You can register by mailing your contact information (name, complete address, phone # and email) with a check for $75.00 made payable to OCMG. You can also save your spot by emailing the same information to 2024HG101@gmail.com, with payment required

by Feb 1, 2024.

Please mail your check to: OSU Extension Center, Attn: HG 101 2500 NE 63rd St Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 17

Red carpet rolled out for Vignolas Italian Kitchen

Italian food lovers in Edmond now have Vignolas Italian Kitchen.

Vignolas Italian Kitchen held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Chamber of Commerce at 23 W 1st St, Suite 130.

Vignolas Italian Kitchen is a family owned-and-operated restaurant located in the Edmond Railyard that will offer authentic Italian comfort food. Owners Ashley and Giovanni Vignola opened their doors on Dec. 4 to the community after moving to Edmond from Maryland in 2020.

Committed to creating an aesthetically warm and inviting gathering space in downtown Edmond, they kept the locals in mind with every step of designing their small restaurant in hopes to create a feel-good space promoting connection within the community.

Vignolas will offer three different

menus. Their restaurant and carryout menu will consist of a variety of pasta dishes, traditional small plates, gourmet hot and cold subs, salads, soups, and desserts. You can view their other offerings on their website listed below. Chef and owner, Giovanni Vignola grew up in the restaurant business alongside his parents and grandparents, spending summers with family in his parent’s towns in Italy and eventually moving to Florence to attend culinary school in the 1990s. Every dish he serves is infused with memories of family, warmth, love, travel, tradition, and community; and it shows in his flavors and presentation.

To learn more about Vignolas Italian Kitchen, visit https://www.vignolaskitchen.com

Accreditation earned by UCO teacher prep program The University of Central Oklahoma’s educator preparation programs have received full accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This accreditation reflects the hard work of faculty and staff focused on meeting rigorous national standards for educator preparation. UCO’s programs have been continuously accredited nationally since 1954.

Accreditation is achieved by programs that demonstrate excellence in the areas of pedagogy, clinical partnerships and practices, candidate recruitment, progression and support, program impact, quality assurance and continuous improvement.

“A CAEP accreditation indicates that UCO meets the highest standards for educator preparation and that our graduates are ready from day one to successfully begin

their teaching careers in Oklahoma classrooms,” said Kim Pennington, Ph.D., assistant dean and director of educator preparation. “UCO education graduates are comprehensively prepared teachers who are filling critical workforce needs across the state.”

UCO’s teacher preparation programs are housed within the UCO College of Education and Professional Studies, Jolene Schwind Office of Teacher Education Services. Central offers 14 undergraduate degree programs in education including art education, dance education, early childhood education, and elementary education,dard certification through one of the state’s alternative pathways. For more information about educator preparation at UCO, visit the Jolene Schwind Office of Teacher Education Services website at www.uco.edu/ceps/teacher-education-services.

Integris names three new members of leadership team INTEGRIS Health is pleased to announce three new executive leaders.

Matt Pollard, M.D., has been selected to serve as the new INTEGRIS Health vice president of clinical programs. Pollard comes to Oklahoma from Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City where he was Pollard serving as the vice president of continuous improvement for the system. Pollard has expertise in strategy deployment, continuous improvement and physician engagement. He is extremely passionate about perfecting the patient experience at all levels.

Peter Valenzuela, M.D., has been selected as the INTEGRIS Health Medical Group president. He is a highly respected physician executive who has led several premier medical Valemzuela groups nationwide, most recently he was

the chief medical officer for Mercy Medical Group in Sacramento, California. Before that, he was the chief medical officer for Sutter Medical Group of the Redwoods in Sonoma County, California, and the vice president of the Northwest Network for PeaceHealth Medical Group in Washington.

Matthew Nussbaum has been selected as the INTEGRIS Health Medical Group chief operating officer. Nussbaum has more than 25 years of progressive experience working in integrated hospital systems and physician Nussbaum practices. He is skilled in organizational change, strategic planning and implementation, capital project and program development, team building and collaboration. He has held multiple leadership roles at Geisinger Health since 2011.

At INTEGRIS Health, our Mission, Vision and Values reflect our commitment to partnering to achieve healthier outcomes for our patients.

Agency hosts ‘Okla. Insurance Day’ The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) successfully hosted the inaugural Oklahoma Insurance Day in Oklahoma City. The conference was held at the Embassy Suites Downtown Medical Center on Dec. 14 and attracted a total of 125 attendees from across the insurance sector in Oklahoma.

“Our first Insurance Day was a huge success, and I’m proud of our entire team for developing a robust, educational agenda and hosting a great event,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready said. “I know attendees walked away with more insight into the industry here in Oklahoma from several expert perspectives.”

The conference covered important aspects of the insurance sector in

Oklahoma and national topics driving the industry. The sessions featured leading experts from industry and regulators across the country. The speakers included Montana State Auditor and Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Troy Downing, Reinsurance Association of America (RAA) Vice President of State Relations Paul Martin, OID's Captive Insurance Director Steve Kinion and OID’s Government and Community Affairs Director Ashley Scott, with the keynote address given by former KTUL anchor Mark Bradshaw.

The event was supported by the Independent Insurance Agents of Oklahoma (Big I Oklahoma) and brought together regulators, business leaders, industry professionals and beyond to connect, learn, and collaborate.

Pictured, a fall 2023 UCO education graduate.

Page 18 • December 21, 2023 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Update on Edmond projects This is a weekly report that provides updates on public and private construction projects, road/lane closures, alternative routes, and other information that is of importance to our downtown community. Anyone interested in getting the email notifications can sign up at https://www.edmondok.gov/list.aspx ?ListID=273.

To see an interactive map of ongoing projects, check Downtown Project Updates (arcgis.com).

DEC. 14, 2023 New projects Littler Avenue closures: Sections of Littler Avenue, between 6th and 8th streets, will be closed to traffic while work to replace the concrete paving and sidewalks is completed. Short sections of the impacted streets will be closed while work is completed.

Each section closure is expected to last approximately 10 days, with cooperative weather. Streets and the adjacent drives will have the concrete paving removed and replaced. Street section work will begin on Littler at

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Hi and Lois

Blondie

Shoe

Hägar the Horrible

Zits

8th and move north to just north of 7th. Sidewalk replacement work will run along the east side of Littler and run from 6th to 8th. Residents in the area will not have street access in the closed sections and will be required to park outside of the closed area.

There will be no through-traffic access in the closed sections.

On-going projects Main and Littler closures: Construction work has begun at the City Center Complex site, which could mean periodic short-term closures of Main Street west of Littler Avenue from the intersection to half a block west of the four-way stop. Full closure of the section of Main is not scheduled before January 2024, and that section could be opened for special events when there is no construction traffic.

The sidewalk on the east side of Boulevard, along the site of the future Municipal Court building, is closed from the south alleyway to Main Street. Work to upgrade that sidewalk section is not expected to impact street traffic.

Edmond Life & Leisure • December 21, 2023 • Page 19

Church to have special Christmas Eve program “Immanuel: God With Us” is the title of this year’s Ambassadors’ Concert Choir Christmas Eve concert.

The concert is set for 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 24, at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 5700 N. Kelley Ave. in Oklahoma City. Admission is free but a goodwill offering will be taken.

The Ambassadors’ Children/Youth Choir, directed by Norma Noble and Cameron Barnett, will also perform during the concert.

The concert will be a mix of classical works, gospel, secular music and spirituals, according to Sandra Thompson, artistic director of the adult choir.

“The Christmas Eve concert is a favorite among choir members and a beloved tradition that many families in our community plan their holiday celebrations around,” Thompson said.

“We love to celebrate the Advent Season, and the concert is a true celebration of the birth of the choir and the birth of the Christ Child. Special guest soloist this year will be Oklahoma City native the Rev. Erica Thomas of Quayle United Methodist Church.”

The concert finale will be a performance of the “Hallelujah Chorus” from “Handel’s Messiah, A Soulful Celebration.”

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

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