Edmond Life and Leisure - January 4, 2024

January 4, 2024 Vol. 24, No. 33

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

A look back ….. at 2023

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.

Latest George Gust review See Page 14

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 Showers High 44° Low 32°

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 Partly Cloudy High 45° Low 30°

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 Mostly Cloudy High 50° Low 37°

Before we plunge head first into 2024, we thought it might be a good idea to take a look back at the year 2023.

After years of COVID concerns, it seems that most people finally were comfortable again with attending events and mingling with others.

Around Edmond there are lots of scheduled events — including the Edmond Arts Festival in May and the LibertyFest celebration in June and July.

Other venues, such as the UCO Jazz Lab, Armstrong Auditorium and the University of Central Oklahoma have many entertainment events.

The Edmond Life & Leisure staff appreciates you — our reader for using us as a trusted source for news and notices.

Happy 2024. Please don’t hesitate to email us if you have any concerns or have a news tip for us.

Page 2 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 3

A look back at 2023 High schools again give back to others with charitable efforts In February and March Edmond’s high schools again hosted their annual community benefits.

Thousands of students banded together to raise money and awareness for various non-profit organizations.

Left, a scene from Memorial’s Swine Week after the announcement of total funds raised.

Below left, North and BALTO Week.

The elation of gtiving back

Packed assemblies at Memorial, above, and North, below.

Page 4 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Edmond builder dies at 93 Longtime Edmond builder and developer, Thomas F. Freeman died last week after a fierce battle with Parkinsons. He helped shape the footprint of the Edmond community back in the mid 1980’s and early 1990’s. Kickingbird Shopping center and the Kickingbird movie theater are his two-signature projects that live on here in Edmond. He was a developer of housing additions as well including Rustling Hills, Kingwood Estates, Fox Hollow, Borgata and shopping centers that house Hobby Lobby and Mardel. He had many projects around the Oklahoma City area and Ray Hibbard Shawnee.

He was also my father-in-law and someone I loved and cared about beyond his incredible daughter. His obit is on this page, but I have some examples that might just let you know what kind of a great fellow he was.

Before becoming a builder and developer, Tom was a dentist for 30 years and before that served in the United States Navy after dental school in Kansas. Oklahoma did not have a dental school at the time. He downplayed his service because he viewed being a dentist on a U.S. Marine base and not “real” military service. I can assure you that my combat veteran Marine father would have considered Tom’s service just as important as anyone else. It takes all kinds of talents to make a military run; his contribution was important.

Our first serious meeting was a bit awkward for both of us. When you are 58 years old it is an odd thing to be asking for the hand of a daughter from her father. Another story for another day but Lisa and I had known each other for 47 years yet we have only been married for 6 years. We sat down and looked at each other and Tom said, “This is interesting, isn’t it?”

We went on to have a great conversation which told me not only had I been lucky enough to get to marry the perfect gal for me, but I was getting a bonus from a perfect father-in-law. My father died in 2007 so the two never got to meet which was a shame since the two had a similar sense of humor.

I had the joy of relating stories about the wonderful things her father had done in the community to Lisa. When folks found out he was my father-in-law they were quick to relay a story of something beyond that Tom had helped them with. Lisa never knew because her dad said nothing about these acts of kindness.

His business activity was always conducted with the highest of integrity and honesty.

He did handshake deals at times and never lost his trust in other human beings. If he gave you his word it was his bond. There was no wriggle room in his word. I have told others that Tom was proof that you could still be a businessperson with integrity and be incredibly successful at the same time.

He had the best sense of humor. He called my service on a bank board and a hospital Tom Freeman board as my “night” jobs. Over the years he had been asked to serve on bank boards over the years but thought they were too much liability and I assure him they were.

We will miss his quiet nature, good sense of humor and his love of family. He and Joi Dell his wife had their loves of a lifetime married over 69 years. Another true inspiration.

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

Obituary notice Thomas F. Freeman August 12, 1930 – December 28, 2023 Thomas (Tom) Franklin Freeman fell asleep in the Lord December 28, 2023, at his home in Oklahoma City after living a full and joyful life. Born August 12,1930, to John Fuller Freeman and Anna Mae Freeman, he was raised in Oklahoma City and attended Classen High School.

Tom met the love of his life in Oklahoma City, Joi Dell Nolan where they dated for four years before joining together in a loving marriage for 69 years and raising four children. Joi says it was love at first sight and Tom often said he looked up and she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen.

They went on to build a family, a successful business and a life together full of love.

In addition to attending Classen High School, Tom attended Kemper Military School and went on to Central State University before being accepted into the Kansas City Dental School where he graduated in 1956. After serving in the United States Navy, Tom went on to practice dentistry for 30 years. He was known as a gentle dentist and someone who cared deeply for his patients. After retiring from dentistry, Tom was not done making his mark on the community.

After leaving dentistry, Tom started a successful construction, development and management company. He believed in honesty and integrity for all his projects. Even when disappointed, Tom would go forward and continue with trust in others. Tom was always a hard worker. His first job was at 8 years old when he would push a Borden ice cream cart about three miles a day. He had to decide how much ice and ice cream he was required to prepurchase for the next day. His experience built the family business in caring for customers and staff. The folks that worked for them were treated like family.

Tom loved his family and the bigger the better for him hosting large family get togethers at their home every holiday. He and Joi were always there for family members who might need help shouldering a problem or difficulty. He had kindness and a welcoming face for a family

Thomas Freeman member in need.

Next to family, Tom loved traveling and the out of doors. His achievement to the rank of Life in Boy Scouts started him on a lifetime of outdoor adventure. Being with family and friends outside was his favorite place to be. He and Joi loved their time tent camping around the United States and Canada. He loved snow skiing, hiking, fishing, and exploring small out of the way places such as the island of Anguilla. They also traveled to France and Switzerland to snow ski.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, brother William Freeman and sister Mary June Duskin. He is survived by his wife Joi, brothers John Freeman and Jim Freeman; children Tom Freeman Jr. and wife Cynthia; Monica McCain and husband Greg; Lisa Hibbard and husband Ray; and Bill Freeman and wife Carolyn. Also, eleven grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren.

The family respectfully requests that any donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Family graveside services provided by Corbett Funeral Services.

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- LibertyFest parade memory ........................................................Page 7.

---- Columnist looks back on 2023 ................................................Page 10.

---- A roundup of state politics ......................................................Page 10.

---- Geprge Gust’s latest movie review............................................Page 14.

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

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

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

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

The police booking reports returns next week

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 © 2024 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 • January 4, 2024 • Page 5

A look back at 2023

Last summer, Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis, was one of the first golfers to tee off at the renovated Kickingbird Golf Course.

Below, Mayor Davis poses for his official city photograph.

Earlier in the year he won his second term as Edmond Mayor.

Page 6 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

A look back at 2023

The Glen Miller Orchestra tribute act is scheduled to appear at Edmond’s Armstrong Auditorium. It was a special year for Armstrong in 2023 as the northern Edmond college marked its 25th year of its Peforming Arts series — bringing some of the top talent in the world to Edmond.

Weekend Calendar of Events, Jan. 4-7 Weekend Calendar of Events Jan 4-7

– 5 p.m.; edmondhistory.org

– 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

---- In the Gallery ---- Edmond’s Social Fabric ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events ---- Downtown in December ---- Cattlemen’s Congress ---- Stampede at the E ---- First Friday Gallery Walk ---- Arcadia Lake Eagle Watch

Edmond Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 4 – Mon, Jan 15; $10 ---- $14; edmondicerink.com

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

Cattlemen’s Congress Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Extra Info: Sat, Dec 30 – Thu, Jan 11; cattlemenscongress.com

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

Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 16; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; edmondparks.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Events Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Thu, Jan 4 ---- Thu, Jan 11: Choose Your Adventure & Explore the Code: The Code of the West; Sat, Jan 6 – Sun, Jan 7: Signature Tour @ 1

Stampede at the E Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: Wed, Jan 3 – Sat, Jan 6; wcrarodeo.com First Friday Gallery Walk Location: Paseo Arts District Extra Info: Fri, Jan 5; 6 – 9 p.m.; thepaseo.org Arcadia Lake Eagle Watch Location: 9000 E 2nd St, Arcadia, OK Extra Info: Fri, Jan 5 – Sun, Jan 7; edmondok.gov

About this time last year the Oklahoma City Ballet presented the classic fairytale, Cinderella, at the Civic Center Music Hall.

Please check our weekly Weekend Calendar, as well as our Calendar of Events, to be aware of such top entertainment events.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 7

A look back at 2023

Jill Castilla, president and CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond, proudly served as Grand Marshal of Edmond’s LibertyFest parade — held in downtown Edmond last year and drawing thousands of July Fourth revelers.

Page 8 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

A look back at 2023

Edmond’s U.S. Senator James Lankford, answers press questions with fellow Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. Both were touring the open southern border. The border remains a problem — and a threat — for America.

New UCO Leader Former Lt. Governor of Oklahoma, Todd Lamb, officially took over as President of the University of Central Oklahoma during the summer.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 9

A look back at 2023

Gerardo Myrin, M.D., of Integris achieved a major milestone in 2023. He completed his 1000th joint replacement surgery using the Mako robotic-arm. This number is significantly higher than the national average.

Page 10 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Another year in the books More issues under review

By Steve Gust In this week’s issue we are having a look back at 2023.

As I write this, it’s not quite the year 2024, but it’s awfully close. Just think, the dreaded pandemic was just about four years ago. That’s hard Steve Gust to believe.

While I was searching for the photographs of this year I couldn’t help but notice the many business grand opening photos we published during the year.

We may take that for granted in Edmond – but as far as I’m concerned it’s great news for the community.

It means we’re building and our economy, despite the efforts of some in Washington, is probably better than most places.

I’ve lived in small towns where they might go a month or so without the chamber welcoming a new business.

That’s tough ion sales tax collections.

I doubt Edmond’s had to worry about sales tax collections much in the past 40 years.

We also get lots of tourism here. We probably had 40,000 people here, at

least, during the high school football championships. Probably a lot more.

We have a great swim facility at Mitch Park and good tennis and golf venues as well.

Edmond has a lot to be grateful about as we head into 2024.

—— There’s been a lot of talk about leaving Donald Trump off the ballot in some states.

It’s ridiculous.

Since the liberals declared Jan. 6 to be an insurrection — they are convinced that it’s illegal to put him on a ballot.

I don’t think this is the way we want to go.

Abe Lincoln wasn’t on the ballot in southern states during the 1860 presidential election. Is that the path we want to go down again?

Should some states keep Kamala Harris off the ballot for her posting bond for some rioters in 2020?

Or maybe Biden’s refusal to protect our border makes him unqualified to run?

Can’t everyone see where this is heading? Let the people decide not partisan unelected judges.

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

by Sen. James Lankford Editor’s Note: The following is the second part of letter Sen. James Lankford sent to his constituents.

Honoring Fallen Hero Paul Henry Carr – I recently led our Oklahoma Congressional Delegation to recommend the naming of a new Constellation-class frigate in honor of Oklahoman Paul Henry Carr, from Checotah, who gave his last full measure of devotion to our nation aboard the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in World War II. CLICK HERE to read our letter request to the Navy.

Stopping Medicare’s Burdensome Staffing Rule for Rural Nursing Homes – COVID-19 restrictions created tremendous hardships on our senior care facilities and the health care industry in general. Now, federal health regulators want to put staff mandates on nursing homes who are already struggling to find enough caregivers for loved ones, particularly in rural areas of our state. I introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to

Care Act. The legislation would stop the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary from finalizing a proposed nursing home staffing rule that would force many rural nursing homes to close.

Supporting our Pregnancy Centers – The Biden Administration proposed a new rule that tries to eliminate the use of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funding by pro-life pregnancy centers that give food, baby supplies, and baby clothes while they present alternatives to abortion. The rule threatens to irrationally strip millions of dollars in support for pregnant women and their unborn babies through pregnancy centers, maternity homes, and alternatives to abortion programs. CLICK HERE to read my demand for the withdrawal of this proposal.

Protecting OK Energy Companies from Unfair Taxes - If you own a restaurant, a repair shop, or a hardware store, you can deduct your normal business expenses. But the Democrats’ so-called Inflation Reduction Act attacked oil and gas companies by taking away their ability to deduct their normal business expenses, which has led to a tax increase and higher energy costs for Americans. Higher energy prices hurt every family. I introduced a bill that will restore basic tax fairness to energy businesses, encourage stable energy production and lower energy prices for everyone. CLICK HERE to read about my bill.

Rising Antisemitism in America’s Schools - Since the Hamas-led massacre against Israel on October 7th, there has been a disturbing rise in antisemitic incidents, including targeted harassment, directed at Jewish children in K-12 schools and universities. I have been outspoken for years on the right of every person to practice the faith of their choice without discrimination. As the co-chair of the bipartisan Senate antisemitism caucus, I speak up often against the dramatic rise in hate crimes against Jews in America. In Oklahoma, we should set the example for the nation. CLICK HERE to read more about the rising antisemitism in our nation’s schools, which needs to be addressed immediately.

What’s making news in Okla. politics Rep. Josh West, R-Grove, and Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, last week released the following statement after hearing from numerous 100% disabled veterans across Oklahoma who were unaware of the new July 2023 deadline to apply for the annual sales tax exemption. The deadline was put in place by Senate Bill 415, which became law in 2021.

"Several years ago, Oklahoma's record of 100% disabled veterans was found to be nearly double the record kept by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, causing many concerns about fraudulent activity. After learning of this situation, the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs requested legislation to enact a veterans registry, which took effect after Senate Bill 415 was signed into law in 2021.

While the initial effort aimed to safeguard Oklahoma veterans, unintended consequences instead arose after many 100% disabled veterans missed the registration deadline in July.

We started hearing from veterans over the in-

terim after they received notification from the Oklahoma Tax Commission that they did not meet the deadline, and we immediately began to work on a solution. After meeting with the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs and Oklahoma Tax Commission, we have filed clean-up language that is proposed in Senate Bill 1215.

We have met with leadership in both chambers to ensure that Senate Bill 1215 will be heard and sent to the Governor for signature as early as possible so that Oklahoma veterans with a 100% disability rating will still receive the tax benefits that they were promised, particularly in the current challenging economic environment."

The Second Regular Session of the 59th Legislature convenes Monday, Feb. 5, 2024.

2024 Oklahoma State Legislature Calendar The second regular session of the 59th Oklahoma Legislature convenes February 5 at the state Capitol. Governor Kevin Stitt will give his sixth State of the State address at approximately

Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments

or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

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

12:30pm. The October/November legislative interim study period has concluded. The bill request deadline is December 8 and all bills must be introduced by January 18. The first legislative deadline (bills advanced from committees) is February 29.

The second deadline (bills advanced from floor of each chamber) is March 21. The third deadline (bills advanced from opposite chamber committees) is April 11. The fourth deadline (bills advanced from floor of opposite chamber) is April 25.

Sine Die is May 31 by 5pm. Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat (SD 47) and Speaker of the House Charles McCall (HD 22) will preside over their last legislative sessions as both will leave the Legislature following the 2024 general election due to term limits.

House Delegation Votes For Biden Impeachment Resolution All five Republican members of Oklahoma’s U.S. House delegation (Rep. Kevin Hern – District 1, Rep. Josh Brecheen – District 2, Rep. Frank Lucas – District 3, Rep. Tom Cole – District 4, Rep. Stephanie Bice – District 5) voted for House Resolution 918 which formalizes the impeachment inquiry into Democrat President Joe Biden. The House voted 221 to 212 along party lines. The vote formalizes the inquiry process but is not a direct vote to impeach the President.

OTA Approves Turner Turnpike Widening The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has approved widening (four to six lanes) a six-mile stretch of the Turner Turnpike from Heyburn to Bristow beginning in 2024. The $98.5 million contract was awarded to Duit Construction. The widening will take approximately two years to complete. A new access point will also be constructed at Heyburn and Rt. 66. The project continues OTA’s plan to widen the entire Turner Turnpike from OKC to Tulsa. A 20+ mile stretch from Heyburn to Tulsa was previously widened under the Driving Forward plan. The six mile widening is contained with OTA’s 15-year Access Oklahoma Plan.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 11

Electric Works is repairing and reclaiming century old factory buildings and turning the former General Electric campus into a multipurpose work, living, and entertainment area.

Fort Wayne makes for a surprisingly good stop

By Elaine Warner Fort Wayne, Indiana was not on my bucket list. It wasn’t even on my radar. But I quickly accepted an invitation to visit from Geiger and Associates Public Relations.

I’ve never been to a destination they represent without coming back with great stories. And Fort Elaine Wayne proved no exception.

Fort Wayne, in the northeast corner of Indiana is the state’s second-largest city.

The French were the first Europeans to explore the area in the 1600s.

The Native American history is complicated. Eastern tribes had supplanted most of the indigenous woodland groups. Through treaties and negations between the tribes, the French and the British, by 1700, the Miami tribe had moved back into the area.

The presence of three rivers and thriving fur trade had made this spot desirable. The French, to protect their interests, built the first fort on the banks of the St. Mary’s River in 1722. Other forts followed – the French built a second fort in the mid-1700s but were forced to surrender it to the British who held it until 1763, when it was taken by the Miami tribe.

In 1794, American General Anthony Wayne, having defeated an army of Native American tribes, moved into the three rivers area and established the first of three consecutive forts – the first and subsequent two all called Fort Wayne.

Though the original forts are all gone, a reconstruction of the last fort opened in the 1970s.

Today, visitors can roam the grounds and, on special occasions, see demonstrations and re-enactments.

In summer months, an ideal way to hear some history and see the fort from the water is by taking a cruise on a re-created 1840 canal boat. As you travel down the St. Mary’s River, you’ll pass the confluence of the St. Mary’s and St. Joseph River, at which point they become the Maumee River, which flows northeast to Lake Erie.

The most surprising thing I found in Fort Wayne was the second-largest genealogical library in the country. Part of the Allen County Public Library, this facility is Nirvana for anyone interested in family history.

Rows and rows of shelves span a city block – 42,000 square-feet of resources. But best of all, the genealogists on staff are there to help seekers get

Spring Dawn Kimono by Eric Markow and Thom Norris incorporates woven ribbons of glass creating the look of fabric at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art.

thing is to travel there – but even armchair genealogists can access many free data bases and even email questions. Check out the web site at www.genealogycenter.org.

The Allen County Public Library is also the cohome (with the Indiana State Museum) of the Lincoln Financial Foundation Collection. The library’s holdings comprise one of the world’s largest accumulations of Lincoln documents, photographs and memorabilia. Clever use of technology bring small items to monumental size and interactive features make digging deep into aspects of Lincoln’s private and political lives easy. You could spend your whole vacation in just this building. But there’s a lot more to see and do in Fort Wayne.

The city has an amazing cultural district encompassing theatres, performance spaces and the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. The pride of this institution is its Glass Wing. My favorite piece was “Spring Dawn Kimono” by Eric Markow and Thom Norris.

The artists developed a process for weaving glass.

The kimono looks like it’s made of lushly decorated fabric – touching is strictly verboten no matter how tempting.

Another of Fort Wayne’s great attractions – a work in progress – is the Electric Works Campus. In

the late 1800s, General Electric built a giant compound on a 39-acre site west of downtown. With eighteen different buildings and facilities including a company bowling alley and basketball court, it hit its peak during World War II. The company closed the campus in 2015 and the century-old buildings were left to the ravages of time and weather.

The one-point-two-million square-foot tract, near the heart of town needed a new heart. And that’s happening. The center of the reclamation is Union Street Market – the first food hall and public market in northeast Indiana. Other spaces are being used as conventional or shared office spaces, conference sites, even a school. Eventually, this area will be filled with residences, shops, entertainment venues, who knows what else. For now, it’s an exciting place to visit, eat and explore.

That’s not the only old thing that is new again in Fort Wayne. In the oldest part of downtown, where once canal boats landed, historic buildings have been restored and now The Landing hosts a variety of restaurants featuring food from traditional to exotic, bars and a brewery.

My food choices in Fort Wayne ranged from an old-time coney café where they whip out dogs by the dozens (Famous Coney Island, operated by the same family since 1916) and a cute Valentine diner, Cindy’s, where everything is made from scratch – don’t skip the peanut butter pie – to the best dinner I’ve had in a long time.

Proximo, sleek and modern, offered a diverse menu. We’re offered so much food on press trips, I try to find someone to split with me when I can.

So when my split buddy (a local) told me her favorite dish, I stepped out of my comfort zone with jumbo scallops over Spanish chorizo, Manchego and squid ink risotto paired with butter-poached shrimp and clams, onions, sweet peas and fennel.

What a magnificent array of flavors and textures.

Hot dogs are for eating – this was dining!

My home-away-from-home was The Bradley, a unique, boutique hotel designed by a co-founder of Vera Bradley. The hotel was filled with color and beautiful fabrics and wallpapers. My room was attractive, comfortable and offered everything I needed for a great stay.

My trips are always too short – this was no exception. There wasn’t enough time to experience all the activities on the rivers or visit the botanic garden. I raced through the zoo and the science museum, but there’s so much more. So now Fort Wayne is on my bucket list for a revisit. It would be worth the trip!

The Rolland Center for Lincoln Research uses innovative technology to enhance enjoyment and understanding of materials, like this wall-sized reproduction of an actual photos from the Lincoln family album.

A roof-top view from one of the buildings at Electric Works, gives a great view of the downtown Fort Wayne skyline.

A line of hot dogs sits ready for a slosh of special coney sauce and chopped onions at Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island Wiener Stand.

Page 12 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

A look back at 2023

In March, State Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, and the Oklahoma Senate, in partnership with the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission (OAC), and Air & Space Forces Association Central Oklahoma Gerrity Chapter, recognized Col. Charles “Chuck” DeBellevue, the last Vietnam ACE on active duty. The recognition came,on National Vietnam War Veterans Day and the 50th anniversary of the day the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam.DeBellevue served 30 years in the Air Force, most famously in Vietnam

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 13

A look back at 2023

Engagement, Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com.

We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph.

Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

Jan Moran, left of AT&T, welcomed U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin to an Edmond Chamber meeting. Mullin took office in early 2023. Later in the year, Mullin made national news when he challenged a teamsters union leader to a fight during a Senate committee hearing.

Genealogy group to present tips on taking research trips A new year usually brings New Year Resolutions. A resolution that many genealogists make is to finally take that trip to our state capital, our nation’s capital, the cemeteries our ancestors are buried in, the nearest large records repository or maybe, just go back “home” and visit with our elder relatives and gather their stories. Whether you do just one of these or attempt multiple trips, careful, methodical preparation can mean the difference between a successful trip or a giant waste of time and money.

The Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group is excited to start 2024 hosting Andrea Wallis Aven as she presents “How to Prepare for a Genealogy Research Trip” on January 17th, at 10:00 a.m. at the Oklahoma County Extension Center, 2500 NE 63rd. Andrea, a New York City native, was raised in Connecticut, but has lived in Oklahoma since 2011 and had a keen interest in genealogy for over 30 years.

She has conducted significant research on her Wallis and Stewart lines and is currently writing a book about her aunt, Jane Wallis Burrell, a case officer in the office of Strategic Services, America’s first spy agency, and the first CIA officer to have died in service.

Andrea is the immediate past president of the Edmond Genealogical Society, a former board member and officer of the Edmond Historical Society and Museum, and a public speaker on historical and genealogical topics. She is our State Society’s recording secretary, the state Historic Preservation Committee Chair and the honorary regent of the Cordelia

Andrea Wallis Aven Steen Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Last year she took a “genealogy vacation” visiting distant cousins, and homes and sites in England, Ireland and Scotland so she is well prepared to share her insight on the do’s and don’ts of a research trip.

The OHCE Genealogy Group meets the third Wednesday of every month to learn and share information and tips on researching our family histories. For more information please check out our website: ohcegenealogy.com and our Facebook page: OHCE Genealogy Group.

Page 14 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Some top acting in new wrestling film

By George Gust “The Iron Claw” tells the true story of the inseparable Von Erich brothers who made history in the world of professional wrestling in the 1980s.

Through tragedy and triumph, under the shadow of their domineering father and coach, the brothers seek larger-than-life immortality on the biggest stage in sports.

For old school fans of professional wrestling back in the days when wrestling was spread throughout the country in territories as opposed to a national brand, the tragic story of the Von Erich brothers is well known. However, if you think that “The Iron Claw” is a movie only for the hardcore professional wrestling fan, you would be mistaken. Writer/Director Sean Durkin has taken the tragic story of this wrestling family and created a stunning portrait of modern masculinity through the grace and physicality of the sport of wrestling and the dysfunction of a father who pushed his sons to the brink emotionally and physically.

While “The Iron Claw” features a bevy of talented character actors who turn in both charismatic and moving performances, this movie will undoubtedly be remembered as a breakout dramatic perform-

Answers on Page 19

ance from Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich. Efron has undergone a stunning physical transformation that leaps off the screen for his imposing size as the technically proficient wrestler. However it’s the way Efron is able to play the emotion Kevin experiences through the highs of the brothers’ wrestling career and the heartbreaking lows of the family tragedy that sets him apart from any other performance of his career and will likely garner Oscar attention.

Overall, “The Iron Claw” is a heartbreaking exercise in melodrama that takes the best of the drama and fun in the ring and mixes it with the true-life

tragedy of the Von Erich family to stirring results.

Not since “Brian’s Song” has there been more of a tearjerking sports movie that men will deny crying during. Fantastic performances from Efron and crew coupled with the early 1980s aesthetics make “The Iron Claw” a dramatic and emotional experience that during the first half effectively and entertainingly lays the groundwork to tell a tale of human tragedy and loss in the second half. There are many scenes and lines that if were found in a lesser thoughtful movie would ring untrue, however in “The Iron Claw” the combination of performance and writing makes those melodramatic moments hit you in the ‘feels’ (as the kids would say). Certainly not the family movie to take the kids to this holiday break, but ultimately becomes the ‘feel bad movie of the year.’

“The Iron Claw” is rated R for language, suicide, some sexuality and drug use.

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

Zac Efron grapples with grief and pain in the wresting ring and in life depicting the tragic true story of the Von Erich family in “The Iron Claw.”

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Winter Fun ACROSS 1. Mulligatawny and gazpacho, e.g.

6. Half of NFL 9. "Oscar" of sports 13. Relating to sight 14. Sargasso ____ 15. Dugout glider 16. Not fresh 17. First H in HRH 18. Face-to-face exams 19. *Ice fishing shelter 21. *"Polar" activity 23. *Type of Christmas tree 24. Diagonal 25. Tax return professional, acr.

28. Kind of cola 30. Diaphragm spasm 35. Scepters' partners 37. Of two minds 39. ____ Jean Baker 40. *Rabbit's winter one is white 41. Sheik's bevy?

43. Type of dam 44. Butcher's refuse 46. Etna's emission 47. Secret disclosure 48. Stellar 50. Chap or fella 52. Diabetic ketoacidosis, acr.

53. A or O, to blood 55. Unit of electrical resistance 57. *Finger warmers 60. *Certain sleigh ride 63. Courtroom excuse 64. Gobbled up 66. Train runners 68. Land of taekwondo 69. "Caroline in the City" Thompson 70. Relating to Scandinavia 71. Not home 72. *Last winter mo.

73. Klondike river

DOWN 1. Acronym in a bottle 2. Chooses 3. Colorado's neighbor 4. a.k.a. pilau 5. Like a longer route?

6. Grayish 7. ATM extra 8. Carpus, pl.

9. Bring home the bacon 10. Unforeseen ob-

stacle 11. *Skier's aid 12. Da or oui 15. Jenny McCarthy to Melissa McCarthy 20. Engagement, archaic 22. ____-di-dah 24. Onslaught 25. *Warming drink 26. Faculty members, for short 27. Behind a stern 29. *Frosty's eyes 31. Type of hood 32. Apollo of "Rocky" 33. Inuit skin boat 34. *a.k.a. anorak 36. *Betelgeuse, e.g.

38. *Snow, in Italy 42. Lord's estate 45. Lithuania's neighbor 49. NaOH

51. Like a rosebush 54. Church song 56. Meow, alt. sp.

57. ___-in-the-dark 58. Milano moolah 59. Toe the line 60. Product of lacrimation 61. Michael Douglas' dad 62. "The Sun ____ Rises" 63. *What clues #4 and #34 Down have in common 65. High affair 67. Barack Obama, pre-pres.

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 15

A look back at 2023

Famed guitarist Edgar Cruz, was one of many musical acts during the 2023 Edmond Arts Festival. The Festival drew thousands to downtown during its three-day May run.

Thousands of students, at Edmond high schools, and the University of Central Oklahoma went through commencement exercises in May.

Edmond’s Cycle 66 brought dozens and dozens of riders to Edmond. Part of the ride went through Pops in Arcadia.

Page 16 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

A look back at 2023

Your National Champions From Edmond!

Believe it or not, it had been 15 years since the University of Central Oklahoma had won a national title in wrestling. But that ended March 11 at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dalton Abney and Shawn Streck put the final stamp on Central Oklahoma’s national team title by capturing back-to-back individual gold medals at the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championships. Congratulations to head coach Todd Steidley and all of the Bronchos for their great accomplishment!!!

The Bronchos of the University of Central Oklahoma — ended the football season with a 5-5 mark.

Woman wins $1 million A Yukon resident, Tamara, claimed her $1,000,000 winning Scratcher today at the Oklahoma Lottery Winner Center. This top prize was won on a Platinum Jackpot ticket that was purchased at 7-Eleven at 12201 W. Reno Ave in Oklahoma City.

Tamara told us that when she scratched her ticket, she was shocked to see that she had won the top prize. She immediately took the ticket to her mother and asked her to double check the win to make sure. But even after hearing it confirmed, she said it didn’t sink in until she came in to claim it. Tamara came in to cash in her winning ticket while on her lunch break today and was headed back to work when she was done.

When asked what she planned to do with her winnings, she said that she was going to take her mother on a cruise and then buy a new home in Florida for both of them to live in.

This winning ticket is the first top prize claimed for Platinum Jackpot, which leaves two remaining top prizes in the game. To find a retailer, visit lottery.ok.gov.

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 17

In 2024, master time management There only are a set number of hours in a day and a lot of demands on personal time. Finding ways to use time more efficiently and effectively is a goal many people aspire to, whether they are business owners, students or anyone in between.

A hectic schedule quickly can get the better of anyone, but there are many individuals who seem to have it all together. It is likely they have figured out how to manage time better. According to Starling Bank's "2020 Make Business Simple" report, small business owners and solo entrepreneurs spend up to 31 percent of their weekly time sorting finances and doing other administrative work. Learning early on how to more effectively allot time for tasks is one of the key skills a person can learn.

Use a calendar and set reminders There's only so much the average person can remember. Putting events into a calendar will provide visual cues as to what needs to get done and when. It also may help illustrate a pattern of when blocks of time are more busy and when there are free moments so that tasks can be redistributed,

serving as a time audit of sorts. Reminder functions are a great way to stay on top of things and avoid feeling stressed and rushed when responsibilities are accidentally overlooked.

Learn about the Eisenhower Matrix The Eisenhower Matrix is a tool that helps people distinguish between tasks that are important, not important, urgent, and not urgent. The matrix is broken down into quadrants that correspond with the 4Ds of execution: do, defer, delegate, and delete. This matrix can help a person prioritize tasks revelant to their goals.

Tackle difficult things first Leadership expert Brian Tracy developed a productivity method called Eat That Frog. It is good for those who have trouble avoiding distractions or people who tend to procrastinate. The gist is tackling the most complicated or dreaded task first, and only moving on to other things once you've "eaten that frog."

Use the right tools Certain tools work for some and not for others.

While one person may like making paper to-do lists, another may prefer digital devices. Identifying the resources that help a person manage time better can be an asset.

Limit time spent on each task According to Parkinson's Law, "work expands to fill the time allotted to complete it." People should set reasonable limits on how long to give each task; otherwise, they may spend more time than is necessary.

Multitasking is not the answer Productivity is reduced when individuals multitask, says the American Psychological Association.

Sticking to one job at a time puts full attention on that job and may help it get done more quickly and to a better level.

Time management is a skill like any other that needs to be mastered in order to put it to use effectively.

From Metro News

Goodwill Industries honor outstanding associates Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma is recognizing its associates for outstanding work development, accomplishments and excellent service with the nonprofit’s annual awards.

“Goodwill’s focus is jobs and job training and that starts within our own walls with our associates,” Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma CEO Jim Priest said. “We aim to help our associates build their career with a solid foundation for long-term success.”

Eric Dixon received the Achiever of the Year Award. This award recognizes an outstanding per-

son who has shown great progress and accomplishment in overcoming barriers to employment while still benefiting from the Goodwill work environment or receiving services to support employment in the community. Eric has overcome challenges and completed Goodwill’s Leadership Development Program and the Retail Apprenticeship Program. Eric has been with Goodwill for three years, workin his way up from a Store Associate to Store Manager through hard work and dedication and his will for growth and development.

Longtime airport planner moving on after 40 years The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has announced that engineer, Kelly Fincannon, PE, is retiring at the end of this year.

Fincannon began working for the Department in September of 2021 as the agency’s Chief Airport Engineer.

His primary focus was airport planning, design, construction, and project management with a mission to provide continued development and improvement of the Oklahoma Airport System while working closely with the Federal Aviation Administration, airports, consultants, and construction contractors.

“When Kelly came to ODAA, his experience and knowledge were timely, as we were experiencing a significant increase in construction projects across Oklahoma airports. As he closes his professional career, we thank him for his dedication to ensure the safety of the flying public through meticulous and responsible airport engineering,” said Grayson Ardies, Executive Director for ODAA. Fincannon is a fourth-generation Oklahoman, born in Bartlesville, and attended Grove High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering at Oklahoma State University. After college, working as a Civil Engineer, he obtained his Oklahoma Professional Engineer License where his professional career led him to infrastructure projects from coast to coast. Fincannon also worked internationally.

Kelly boasts four decades of work experience including office and staff management, regional financial oversight, business development, client negotiation, project management, engineering design, bidding services, construction administration, and observation, grant administration, master planning, and capital improvement plans.

His airport experience spans civil,

Kelly Fincannon military, commercial, and general aviation airports as well as other civil infrastructure projects including highways, streets, drainage, water lines, sewer lines, and water resources projects. The airport projects he has been a part of have ranged in size from a $60,000 concrete apron hardstand in Oklahoma to the $5.8 Billion Peace Sun IX Program in Saudi Arabia to the $12 Billion Chicago O’Hare Modernization Program.

He holds professional engineer registrations in Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri.

“When looking back on my 40year professional career, I can tell stories about amazing projects that I am proud to have had a hand in completing. However, what I am most proud to recall is the tremendous, amazing, talented, professional people I have been blessed to work with and call friends and colleagues,” said Fincannon.

Heather Heath received the Pam Henry Award. This award was presented to Heath for dedication to helping those with disabilities overcome challenges to employment and improving life for others. The award is named after Pam Henry, who was a staunch advocate for the disabled community during her time as a long-standing Goodwill board member.

Heath has truly lived the Goodwill mission of helping people overcome challenges to employ-

See Awards, Page 19

Page 18 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure

A look back at 2023

This photo came to us last spring — promoting a Wild West Show in Pawnee - held in June. We thought the shot was very unique.

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Hi and Lois

Blondie

Shoe

Hägar the Horrible

Zits

Edmond Life & Leisure • January 4, 2024 • Page 19

Awards

Agency: Make health a priority in 2024 From Page 17

ment as a store manager, acting as a driven, caring and empathetic leader for her whole team.

Opal Broussard and Vivian Miller were recognized for their recent major milestones of longest-standing employees in the entire organization and 2021 marked their 35th and 30th year with the company, respectively. Both are part of Goodwill’s contract janitorial team and have given their all day-in and day-out for the many years that they’ve devoted to Goodwill. Because of their milestone, both were presented with a $1,000 bonus.

The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) offers free resources to help Oklahomans achieve their New Year’s health resolutions through small daily steps, whether they are eating more nutritious foods, moving more or living tobacco free. TSET programs like the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline and Shape Your Future help Oklahomans plan — and stay encouraged — to reach healthy goals.

“The New Year is a great time to reflect on habits that can improve health and wellness,” said Julie Bisbee, Executive Director of TSET. “Whether that’s quitting tobacco use, ditching soda, eating more fruits and veggies or finding more time in

the day to move, TSET has resources to help make those goals a reality. Small changes to daily routines have huge impacts on our long-term health.”

Prioritizing health starts with quitting tobacco.

While it can be difficult, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline offers free nicotine replacement therapy (gum, patches or lozenges), plus a personalized plan with text and email support and 24/7 coaches to help track progress.

With the Helpline, quitting tobacco can become a realistic goal. Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800784-8669), text READY to 34191 or visit OKhelpline.com to explore all the free resources available to Oklahomans.

Jack Johnson also received the Janitorial Employee of the Year Award.

“We couldn’t be prouder of our employees,” Priest continued. “Ensuring our employees are recognized for the time and effort they put into their roles is something we take great pride in continuously. These awards represent our acknowledgment of their hard work and dedication to our nonprofit.”

To learn more about Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma, visit https://okgoodwill.org/.

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.

Page 20 • January 4, 2024 • Edmond Life & Leisure