Edmond Life and Leisure - June 15, 2023

In This Issue

FOUR SEASONS

Four former mayors question current Mayor, council on nixed park project

Hospital golf tourney raises $230,000

See Page 7 June 8, 2023

Mayor Darrell Davis Members, Edmond City Council

20 South Littler

Edmond, Oklahoma 73034

RE: A Great Place to Grow

Dear Mayor Davis and City Council Members,

FRIDAY, June 16

Mostly Sunny High 93° Low 69°

SATURDAY, June 17

Partly Cloudy High 91° Low 68°

Thank you for your service to Edmond, one of Oklahoma’s most thriving communities. Like you, we have served Edmond. As former mayors, we have deep concerns about recent decisions and attitudes of the City Manager and his top staff.

The loss of Uncommon Ground, the most amazing park proposed in Edmond in the last five decades, along with the dismissal of concerns by citizens on the proposed city services building at a cost of over 44 million dollars, the disconcerted road construction, the calloused disregard of Edmond organizations like UR Special, and many other wayward decisions, give us pause. That is a very nice and polite way of saying “things are not going well.”

SUNDAY, June 18 AM Thunderstorms High 95° Low 71°

As former mayors and community leaders, we served Edmond. We worked for decades to promote our great city as the top town in which to raise a family, as acknowledged by Family Circle, CNN Money and many others. Why has Edmond ranked at the top? Our schools continually rate among the best in Oklahoma year after year, so of course, that is a reason why parents choose to live in Edmond.

Look beyond the quality schools. We have a safe town and value our public safety as shown by citizen support of the Public Safety Center in 2011. We support senior citizens and have taken action to support senior meal programs and activities. We support families as shown by the city support of Liberty Fest – one of the top 10 festivals in the nation celebrating July 4th. We, as leaders, facilitated the partnership between Edmond and two other parties to complete the swimming pool complex at Mitch Park. We support green space – as evidenced by Edmond’s support of the Edmond Land Conservancy and our many public parks.

Is this letter only about the loss of Uncommon Ground, a destination park that would have showcased Edmond’s support for arts and families’ enjoyment? No. This letter is about a wrong direction. A direction that does not value our most vulnerable citizens like at-risk children. A direction that does not consult and listen to input from citizens on traffic, on public expenditures like the City Complex, on modification of city ordinances for funding of community organizations and city parks, on a direction that does not value real input on economic development. A direction that lacks transparency. A direction that does not value Edmond’s quality of life – a quality of life that cities and towns all over America seek to emulate.

Edmond City Council, you are

responsible for our city manager. You are also responsible for vsetting the navigational course for our great city by supporting great projects and by holding top city management accountable. Edmond is a city that values public safety, quality of life and education, that values citizens both young and old, and that values those intangible assets thatmake us great. Edmond has a storied history of public support for our high quality of life. In the past we have been “that city” that other towns aspire to be. Council, we call on you to navigate back to that vision and to hold accountable those who do not share it.

The Edmond City Manager and Directors need to remember that in choosing to be employees of this great city, they have also chosen a life of service. Our city staff must listen to what our citizens value and will sacrifice to improve. For many of us, sacrifice means giving up our egos to keep Edmond a great place to grow. If the city’s current top management cannot do this, it is the Mayor and Council’s responsibility to find individuals who can.

We, as former mayors, stand ready to help. We know that together, we can navigate back to what has always made Edmond a great place to grow.

Sincerely,

Patrice Douglas, former mayor Saundra Naifeh, former mayor Dan O’Neil, former mayor Elizabeth Waner, former mayor

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.

Mayor Darrell Davis

State to boost school safety & security

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma’s public schools will be more secure under legislation signed into law Wednesday. Retired educator, Sen. Dewayne Pemberton, R-Muskogee, led the charge this session to ensure all districts meet certain safety standards to better protect students and staff. Senate Bill 100 was one of the top recommendations of the bipartisan School Safety Working Group, which Pemberton chaired.

“After visiting with school administrators and visiting numerous school sites, it became alarmingly apparent that we needed to create a uniform system of safety standards and protocols to ensure all our students and staff are fully protected during an emergency. It shouldn’t matter if it’s a rural or urban, poor or affluent district, all schools should be safe havens where learning is the focus and students can thrive,” Pemberton said. “I’m grateful

for Representative Lowe’s help in getting this across the finish line and for the overwhelming support of our legislative colleagues and Governor Stitt.”

The measure requires the state’s more than 2,000 school sites to undergo a risk and vulnerability assessment from the Oklahoma School Security Institute (OSSI) or a nationally qualified assessor by July 1, 2026, and then every five years after. Recommendations will include ways to improve facility security. The new law goes into effect July 1, 2023.

Rep. Dick Lowe, R-Amber, was the principal House author of SB 100.

"Security is the last thing children and teachers should ever have to worry about while they are involved in the process of learning,” Lowe said. “This bill will help us ensure our schools are as safe as

they can be with the proper staff, security features and protocol in place to protect our children and those who work to educate them. I'm grateful to Senator Pemberton for authoring this measure and the governor for signing it into law."

The Legislature allocated $1.4 million to the state Department of Education (SDE) to allow the OSSI to hire ten additional staffers to help conduct all the risk assessments in the allotted time period.

The last week of session, the governor also signed HB 2903 and HB 2904, which creates a three-year school safety pilot program to provide each district with approximately $96,000 to hire a school resource officer or make necessary security upgrades. The other measure provides a one-time appropriation of $150 million to fund the safety program.

Chamber remains supportive of park project

On behalf of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, we would like to voice concern over recent events having occurred, the results of which appear to be the loss of the Uncommon Ground Park. The potential for this unique project is something Edmond has never experienced but which could lead to tremendous positive growth and opportunity for our community.

A tremendous primary benefit of this park would be attracting and retaining new talent to our community. Adding amenities such as this would help Edmond augment its sense of community, creating a place where people want to come to live, work and play. Not only would this enhance the quality of life for Edmond citizens, the cultural benefits alone of what Uncommon Ground could provide to the city are immeasurable.

With private fund raising efforts currently underway for this park, as with other projects, it is always helpful for potential benefactors to know that the City is behind the effort and is supporting the park whether through infrastructure and more, even as those costs are still being determined. The Chamber and the EEDA submitted applications for

CARES and ARPA funds for this project. While these applications were not funded, other applications currently in the works along with funds raised to date could enable this project to begin construction. The importance of seeing development happening here adds to the excitement and realization that this could be a unique and special place.

Comparing Uncommon Ground to either the Gathering Place or Myriad Gardens in OKC, it is important to recognize the significant numbers of visitors that would travel here to experience this sculpture park.

In terms of size, this park would be much larger than the 15 acre Myriad Gardens and roughly the same size as the current 67 acre Gathering Place. In the first 2 days of the opening of the Gathering Place, 55,000 visitors attended. The Myriad Gardens estimates 200,000 annual visitors. It is not difficult to imagine the impact that Edmond would realize from visitors to Uncommon Ground making purchases for refreshments within the park or venturing out into the community to visit other attractions or restaurants. Visitors that might not have

even thought to come to Edmond but for the Uncommon Ground.

The Edmond Chamber has always appreciated the relationship it has with the City of Edmond and would be willing to work with city leaders and stakeholders to provide additional support by facilitating discussions with the goal of ensuring that this project, as well as future projects like these, come to fruition.

We stand ready to assist with making the Uncommon Ground a reality.

Sherry Jordan, Edmond Chamber of Commerce

President & CEO

Edmond Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors - Executive Committee:

Leslie Buford, OU Health Edmond

H.J. Reed, Phillips 66, Retired

Shandy Belford, Arvest Bank

Michelle Keylon, Francis Tuttle Technology Center

Jamey Mullin, ServiceMaster by Eagle-Eye

Sarah Clutts, Spencer Fane, LLP

Kenneth Wohl, Regent Bank

Left, Steve Hahn and Jan Moran with AT&T welcome Edmond area legislators to the Edmond Chamber post session breakfast last week at the Edmond Conference Center. AT&T was the presenting sponsor for the annual event.

More on concern ex-Mayors have with city

Just as Edmond residents were licking their wounds over the developer pulling a proposed and donated Uncommon Ground sculpture park, four former Edmond mayors dropped a bomb shell on the city council and our current mayor. The third sentence in the first paragraph sums up the tone of the letter. “As former mayors, we have deep concern about recent decisions and attitudes of the city Manager and his top staff”.

Wow, that is not good folks. As stated in the letter, these former mayors have all been in the same shoes as the city council. They walked the walk and talked the talk. They have also navigated through difficult decisions and challenges. It would seem that the death of the proposed sculpture park has caused more challenges within our city processes to surface.

“Is this letter only about the loss of Uncommon Ground, a destination park that would have showcased Edmond’s support for the arts and families’ enjoyment? No” the letter states. We have received complaints from developers and residents as well on specific issues that have come up with city staff and processes that can seem unfair on the surface.

To be fair, through this newspaper’s 23-year history, we have received such complaints from time to time. Upon investigation, it is usually a case of there being two sides to every story. A great example centers around road construction. Why did the city start two road projects so close together is often asked. Many times, it was that Federal funds were available and if construction was delayed on one project those funds would be lost. It is a complicated process but can have Federal funds pay for up to 80% of the road’s construction. Being cheap, I would prefer the inconvenience over losing the funds.

To be honest, this time has a different feel and look to it. In some areas the processes seem to be moving too fast and in other areas they are moving too slowly. Does that mean the city manager and his staff are picking and choosing the projects they prefer? I would not judge it that way, but it is time for a wake up call on how the processes are handled and what the processes will look like in the future.

The common denominator in all this is the lack of communication. It is similar to what The Captain says to Paul Newman in the 1967 movie Cool Hand Luke right after he knocks Newman to the ground, “What we got here is failure to communicate”. If our mayor and city council’s expectations are not being met by the city manager and his staff, they need to communicate that in no uncertain terms and set a new path for what needs to be done in the future. If they are pleased with the way processes are being handled, they need to speak up in support of the city manager. Silence is not golden in this case.

The Edmond Chamber of Commerce also released a letter offering help with Uncommon Ground. They are willing to arbitrate and improve the communication process between all parties. I am afraid that ship has sailed but I know the good folks at the chamber would be willing to extend their offer of improving communication to other processes that go on between developers and city staff. The council and city management should lean on the chamber folks. They are all experienced in how to get things done and the leadership of Sherry Jordon as president of the cham-

ber is unmatched.

It is a bit of a pickle that city staff, council and residents of Edmond find themselves in. Probably a shake up that is overdue. For many years the council and mayor regularly challenged city staff on the way business was conducted, especially regarding developers. I served on a committee former city manager Larry Stevens convened with the chamber’s help to find ways to streamline the process. It worked but I am thinking it has been disbanded.

Running a city is a complicated process with so many tentacles most of us cannot get a grasp on understanding them all. However, communication is the fix my friends and Edmond needs to get back to good communication one way or the other, now.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

I know most folks think they have the best dad, but the truth is I had the best dad, for me anyway. He was and still is bigger than life. This will be the 16th Father’s Day I have celebrated without him. People will tell you it gets easier as time goes buy but it does not. There is not a day that goes by where dad does not enter my mind, or I share one of his stories or say something he would have said. The good news is that dad left a lot of material behind including a number of jokes and sayings. Some of them I can even repeat in public. He was not a politically correct guy, but he loved people and his family most of all.

He was a hard-nosed U.S. Marine through and through. After serving his tour he decided to join the reserves. “It paid $60 a month which covered your mother’s and my rent, and I got to get together with some of my buddies once a month” he told me. It came as a complete surprise when he was called up and put on a ship. “That is when I learned to read

the newspapers” he added. Not knowing where he was going, he ended up in the Incheon invasion kicking off the Korean War.

Although he was wounded shortly after getting off the beach and carried metal from a Chinese hand grenade in his legs his whole life, he considered himself lucky. Dad was evacuated before the Chinese crossed the border. The marines were cutting through the north Korean lines like a hot knife through butter until the Chinese regulars crossed the border and joined the fight. Dad was out by then and it left the brave soldiers trapped behind enemy lines where they had to fight their way out. It is where the phrase, “fighting in a different direction” was born.

Dad never let that experience define him. I never saw him lead with his combat experience. He did his duty, served, was wounded and then moved on to be the best dad he could be. As one of his three children I would say he was a big success and even a bigger hit as a grandfather.

A couple of years ago I wrote that we fathers do not need a whole day. Father’s Hour or two would be good. Being a dad is the greatest thing I have ever been. Loved it and it gets better with time. We dads just want to do what we do which is be ready when needed. We mostly hang out in the garage or backyard waiting for the call, “DAD”. We then jump into action until the situation is resolved and then we fade back to our space ready for the next challenge.

Of course, we worry about our kids and go to extreme measures to make sure they are safe. The mothers are the real star of the show and do not get all the credit they deserve. As many of you know the great thing about having kids is becoming a Grandpa!

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

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

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

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

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

dok.com/public-art.php.

visit

Ray Hibbard

Gas prices hold steady

For the first time since 2021, domestic gasoline demand was over 9 million barrels daily for a third straight week. Yet despite the robust numbers, pump prices barely budged as the low cost of oil is countering a spike for now. The national average for a gallon of gas dipped two cents since last week to $3.58 today, $1.39 lower than one year ago. In Oklahoma, the gas average is $3.21 today, down a penny in the last week and $1.34 lower than one year ago.

School’s new president

The Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM) announced last we3ek that its Board of Trustees named Tony Cornforth as the school’s new president. He was unanimously selected by the Board of Trustees, and his term began on June 1. He follows Edna McDuffie Manning, Ed.D., the founding president who served as interim president for the past year.

As only the third president in the school’s 30-year history, Professor Cornforth has worked with OSSM for more than 20 years. An Oklahoma native, Cornforth started his career with the school as a math professor at its Ardmore regional center in

2002.

He taught at the residential campus in Oklahoma City in 2004, and in 2007 he moved to Wayne, Okla., to launch a regional program. During his 14 years there, 287 students completed the program, and his students achieved greater success on the ACT and AP exams. He also had 17 Oklahoma Academic All-Staters.

“OSSM is the exemplar of science and math education and academic pursuit in Oklahoma,” said Cornforth. “Our sacred mission is to provide premier academic opportunities for our talented high school students. We should zealously and relentlessly pursue this mission.”

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand increased slightly from 9.1 to 9.22 million barrels per day last week. Meanwhile, total domestic gasoline stocks rose by 2.7 million barrels to 218.8 million barrels. Although gas demand increased, increasing stocks and fluctuating oil prices have contributed to limiting increases.

New OSSM President Tony Cornforth

(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.)

May 30

Chanda Maria Briggs, 46 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of police officer, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and false personation of another.

Samuel Robert Smith, 46, of Edmond. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and felony DUI/APC.

Brandon Tyler Gage, 36 of Edmond. Arson in the first degree and public intoxication.

Forrest Christopher Tucker, 29 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Abraham Zechariah Daniels, 46 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Terry Joe Payne, 45 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and (misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property.

May 31

Ryan Lance Thompson, 43 of Luther, Okla. Felony warrant.

Bradley Chet Wedel, 47 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Matthew Lee Goodwin, 31 of Idabel. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and disregard traffic signal.

Bennie Williams IV, 37 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana, non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Abraham Zechariah Daniels, 46 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Bobbi Jo. Ismael, 45 of Edmond. Shoplifting.

Diamond Alexis Jones, 21 of Warr Acres. Speeding, 15 mph over limit, cutting across private service driveway and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Abigail Rose Graham, 19 of Edmond. Stop sign violation and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Syreeta Denise Long, 40 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

June 1

K Last Ismael, 32 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence and two counts of failure to appear.

Kennedy Rae Herdon, 22 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Kayleen Tishara O’Hern, 21 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Zachary Duane Jaco, 36 homeless. Three counts of failure to appear.

William Frank Housel Jr., 63 of Tulsa. Failure to

appear.

Rueben Scott Hernandez, 48 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

June 2

Scott Lee Hill, 52 of Guthrie. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and felony DUI/APC.

June 3

Pedro Asturo Valles, 19 of Hennessey. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Deborah Lynn Waterman, 58 of Oklahoma City. Two misdemeanor warrants and a felony warrant.

Miranda Dawn Henson, 25 of Oklahoma City. Two misdemeanor warrants and a felony warrant. Arther Triplett, 41 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Lauresse Renee Williams, 32 of Oklahoma City. Two misdemeanor warrants.

June 4

Jill Allison Smith, 54 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Sierra Dawn Sutton, 22 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Charles Derek Hodges, 32 homeless. Public intoxication.

Andrew Clayton Haley, 39 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Weekend calendar of events, June 15-18

What’s Happening

This Weekend June 15-18

---- In the Gallery ---- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 ----

2020 ---- Beginners Pickleball Club ---- Farmer’s Market

---- Concert in the Park

Spark Softball

---- Edmond Jr. Rodeo

---- Edmond Electric Touch-a-Truck

---- Heard on Hurd ---- Signature Tour

---- Read the West Book Club: All the Pretty Horses

---- Oklahoma Shakespeare Presents: Much Ado

About Nothing

---- Pollard Theatre presents: Little Shop of Horrors

---- National Reining Horse Association Derby

---- Cactus & Succulent Show & Sale

---- Picnic on the Prairie

Father’s Day Fest ---- Father’s Day Cruise

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Featuring the art of Herb Graves; edmondfinearts.com

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

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

Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal

Fashion 1875 – 2020

Location: Edmond History Museum

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

Beginners Pickleball Club

Location: Kickingbird Pickleball Center

Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sat, Dec 30; 8 – 10:30 a.m.; Free; edmondok.com

Farmer’s Market

Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market

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

Concert in the Park

Location: Hafer Park

Extra Info: Thu, Jun 15; Free; 6:15 – 9 p.m.; edmondok.gov

Spark Softball

Location: University of Central Oklahoma

– UCO Nigh Center

Extra Info: Thu, Jun 15 ---- Wed, Jun 21; 1 – 7 p.m.; $20; okcspark.com

Edmond Jr. Rodeo

Location: Edmond Round Up Club

– Carl Benne Arena

Extra Info: Fri, Jun 16 – Sat, Jun 17; Adults: $5, 18 & younger: $1; Fri: 7 p.m.; Sat: 4 & 7 p.m.; facebook.com

Edmond Electric Touch-a-Truck

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO

Nigh Center

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 17; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; suggested $2 donation; edmondok.com

Heard on Hurd

Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 17; 6 – 10 p.m.; mycitizens.bank

Signature Tour

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 17 – Sun, Jun 18; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Read the West Book Club: All the Pretty Horses

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sun, Jun 18; 1 – 2:15 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Oklahoma Shakespeare Presents: Much Ado About Nothing

Location: Shakespeare Gardens

Extra Info: Thu, Jun 8 – Sun, Jun 18; Thu & Sun: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; okshakes.org

Pollard Theatre presents: Little Shop of Horrors

Location: 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Jun 9 – Sat, Jul 1; Fri & Sat: 8 – 10; thepollard.org

National Reining Horse Association Derby

Location: State Fair Arena

Extra Info: Tue, Jun 13 – Sun, Jun 25; nrhaderby.com

Cactus & Succulent Show & Sale

Location: Will Rogers Exhibition Center

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 17 – Sun, Jun 18; 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; oklahomacactus.com

Picnic on the Prairie

Location: Harn Homestead

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 17; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; harnhomestead.com

Father’s Day Fest

Location: Scissortail Park

Extra Info: Sun, Jun 18; 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; facebook.com

Father’s Day Cruise

Location: Regatta Landing

Extra Info: Sun, Jun 18; Boarding: 1:15 p.m.; Departure: 1:30 p.m.; okrivercruises.com

(E-mail items for calendar to infante318@cox.net)

deficit reduction in history

By Senator Markwayne Mullin

Americans want Washington to spend less. Yet for the past two years, hard-working Oklahomans have been crippled with the consequences of Joe Biden’s reckless government spending, skyrocketing inflation, and high interest rates. In Biden’s economy, families and businesses have been forced to make near impossible choices to keep themselves afloat.

It’s clear that Washington does not have a revenue problem; it has a multi-trillion-dollar spending problem. Thankfully, last November, the American people elected a Republican majority in the United States House of Representatives to be a check on Joe Biden’s out-of-control liberal agenda. Now, Republicans are delivering.

Just last week, Congress passed the largest deficit reduction legislation in American history. Despite negotiating in a divided government, Republicans achieved many conservative victories that will put us in the right direction.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned after being in business for 25 years, it’s that you must be willing to negotiate to move the ball forward.

For 100 days, Joe Biden refused to come to the table with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and negotiate a responsible path forward to meet our fiscal responsibilities and address the debt crisis. But, thanks to the relentless work of House Republicans, Congress forced Biden’s hand and took the first step to restore fiscal sanity and hold Washington accountable.

Among many other wins, the Fiscal Responsibility Act reduces the national deficit by $2.1 trillion over the next six years – making it the largest deficit reduction bill in American history.

This legislation cuts spending year-over-year for

all discretionary costs, and fully protects veterans’ programs and national defense priorities. It also caps top-line spending at one percent growth for the next six years while preserving Social Security and Medicare. That’s a huge victory.

Republicans also successfully rejected the White House’s request for $5 trillion in new taxes and slashed $400 million from COVID-19 slush funds directed to China. Furthermore, this bill guts funding for Biden’s army of new Internal Revenue Service agents to spy on hard-working Americans.

Importantly, the Fiscal Responsibility Act also secures work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents who receive federal assistance from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families welfare program, both designed to help those who need the most among us. These commonsense work requirements will allow the American dream to thrive by lifting people out of poverty, getting Americans back to work, and growing the economy.

From our farmers and ranchers to our diesel truck drivers and domestic producers, increased energy costs under the Biden administration have crippled many Oklahoman’s livelihoods. The Fis-

cal Responsibility Act cuts bureaucratic red tape and streamlines energy and infrastructure projects, offering the first significant reform to the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) since 1982. This reform will save Oklahoma’s domestic producers time and resources on infrastructure projects, often years’ worth of delay, and in turn reducing production and consumer costs. With the passage of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, we are one step closer to regaining U.S. energy independence.

Oklahomans should know that although this bill is far from perfect, it represents a key step to finally get America’s fiscal house in order. As your Senator, I will always fight to cut spending, shrink the size of government, and bring fiscal sanity to Washington.

U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) is a successful business owner and working cow-calf rancher serving Oklahoma on the Armed Services; Environment and Public Works; Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; and Indian Affairs Committees. He is an enrolled member of Cherokee Nation and is the first Tribal citizen to serve in the U.S. Senate in nearly two decades.

Integris Golf Classic raises $230K for cancer care

The INTEGRIS Health Foundation recently hosted the 36th Annual INTEGRIS Health Golf Classic at Oak Tree Golf and Country Club in Edmond. We are pleased to announce the event raised more than $230,000 for cancer care.

The funds will be used to enhance and expand the infusion programs at the INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute.

The INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute offers one of the foremost collections of physicians along with state-of-the-art comprehensive therapies for the diagnosis, treatment and survivorship of cancer patients. It is more than just a cancer treatment facility - it's a cancer treatment philosophy, focused on treating the whole person, not just the disease. We would like to thank our tournament sponsor, Anesthesia Medical Professionals, as well as all the other supporters, volunteers, caregivers and players who made this year’s Golf Classic such a success.

UCO learning program

OKA+ Schools gets help from Genesis group

Oklahoma A+ Schools Institute at the University of Central Oklahoma (OKA+ Schools) recently received a $50,000 grant from the Genesis Inspiration Foundation — part of the Genesis Motor America corporation. The grant will be used to support the initiatives of the program to provide youth arts education to schools across the state of Oklahoma.

OKA+ Schools works with schools to make learning more intuitive and fun. By integrating other academics with arts, they create an environment where every student can thrive. Schools in the OKA+ network have higher student achievement, fewer disciplinary referrals, better attendance and higher levels of parental involvement compared with other schools in the state.

“The Genesis Inspiration Foundation sees the value in what we do,” said Sandra Kent, executive director of OKA+ Schools Institute at UCO.

“We have been leaders in integrating arts education into curriculum for more than 20 years, and this grant will help us continue to advance our mission.”

The Genesis Inspiration Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to connecting youth to the transformative power of the arts. Their mission is to improve educational outcomes by providing access to arts programs that engage and inspire children in under-resourced communities.

Since its inception in 2002, the OKA+ network has provided the state’s only research-based, whole school reform model and supports schools throughout the state that encourage creativity, innovation and critical thinking.

For more information about OKA+ Schools at UCO, visit www.okaplus.org or call 405-974-3779.

For more information about the Genesis Inspiration Foundation, visit genesisinspirationfoundation.org.

Benefits of volunteering

Debbie Scott, Gamma Zeta member, delivers an educational on the benefits of volunteerism not only to one’s community but also to oneself.

Volunteering allows a person to connect to the community and makes it a better place. Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference in the lives of people animals, and organizations in need. The principle of donating time and energy toward a greater cause benefits both community and volunteer. Volunteers help change the lives of those in the community as a social responsibility rather than receiving a financial reward.

Scott gave several reasons for volunteering: 1. gaining new skills 2. making new friends 3. mental and physical health and wellbeing 4. giving something back 5. improving one’s confidence

Epsilon Sigma Alpha, an international philanthropic organization, works with UR Special, No Boundaries, Boys’ Ranch Town, Salvation Army, and Free to Live as well as Oklahoma School for the Deaf and Oklahoma School for the Blind. Our national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Oklahoma’s Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s 30 chapters donated a total of $1,017,731.61 last year to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

If interested in joining this energetic group of ladies, call Jacci Gantz 405-922-5954.

Scott

Francis Tuttle Technology Center Danforth Campus Assistant Director Brian Eccellente and Automotive Service instructor Kody Van Osdol accept the donation of a 2020 Nissan Leaf from Bob Moore Auto Group. The vehicle will be used for training Automotive Service Technology students starting in the fall. See article, Page 14.

Donation to Francis Tuttle

OMRF hosts educators from around the state

With lesson plans complete and classrooms closed for the summer, nearly 35 Oklahoma middle school science teachers from around the state took a field trip to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation last week.

The visit was part of OMRF’s sponsorship of the Oklahoma School of Science and Math Summer Science Institute. The program brought teachers from more than two dozen Oklahoma communities to Oklahoma City for a weeklong experience aimed at expanding their science background and building classroom resources.

OMRF President Andrew Weyrich, Ph.D., welcomed the educators and thanked them for their roles in creating a pathway for students to get excited about science.

“Oklahoma teachers are laying the foundation for the next generation of home-grown biomedical researchers,” Weyrich said. “OMRF is proud to be a resource for these educators.”

Lisa Day, OMRF’s vice president of government relations and advocacy and an OSSM Foundation board member, helped organize the event.

“Our researchers get to share with these teachers the real-world applications of the concepts they explore in the classroom,” Day said. “OMRF and OSSM’s longstanding partnership helps cultivate Oklahoma’s future scientists through hands-on experiences for teachers and students.”

During their afternoon at OMRF, the teachers split into groups to visit lab stations staffed by scientists focused on aging, cell division and microscope imaging.

At one station led by Courtney Sansam, Ph.D., researchers from the foundation’s Cell Cycle and Cancer Biology Research Program explained how using various cell models – from zebrafish and frog eggs to baker’s yeast – can help scientists better understand human cell behavior.

Moore’s Highland East Junior High science teacher Carla Shackelford said the program “opens your eyes” to the importance of engaging students with hands-on activities for each subject.

Scientists at the Cell Cycle and Cancer Biology lab stop also demonstrated how mistakes in cell division can happen by sorting playing cards by color. When errors in cell division occur, it can lead to miscarriage and birth defects. Shackelford said she plans to add this activity to her genetics lessons next year.

Special needs teacher Lisa Mosmeyer, also from Highland East Junior High, said the aging-focused lab visit impacted her because some of her students have conditions that cause them to age differently. Still, each activity inspired new ideas for her classroom.

“Many of my students have learning difficulties, so getting them to experience science with their hands makes it make more sense. It becomes alive to them,” Mosmeyer said.

Edmond teacher Thomas Atchison peers through a microscope at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation on June 6, 2023, as part of a workshop with the Oklahoma School of Science and Math Summer Science Institute.

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientists Bartosz Rapacz, Allison Jevitt, Ph.D., and Courtney Sansam, Ph.D., explain how their research program uses different cell models to study cancer on June 6, 2023, during a workshop with the Oklahoma School of Science and Math Summer Science Institute.

A grumpy public

By Steve Gust

There seems to be a bunch of grumpy folks these days.

The Internet is abuzz with film clips of people who are mad at each other. It can be political or simply someone who got the wrong order at a fast food restaurant. People then start shouting, and in some cases, they resort to physical violence. I can safely say I don’t think I’d ever want to harm someone over an order of French fries.

I wish I could measure the blood pressure of some of these people. It simply has to be off the scales. Men, women and even some children are involved in some odd situations. The situations result in screaming and an endless stream of obscenities.

It’s a brave new world folks.

—-

Social media lit up, and rightfully so, last week with the Sooners winning another softball title. There was another aspect to the victory. The

players gave a very strong Christian testimonial after winning the title. Their comments were made at the post-game press conference. It was refreshing to hear such a strong proChristian message. A lot of people online thought the same thing. Even Oklahoma City Catholic Archbishop Paul Coakley shared the press conference video online.

There is hope for the future, folks.

——-

Of course this time of year we seem to have maverick rain storms. The first night OU played Florida State in the championship round, there were two rain delays. I applaud the people who make those decisions. Safety should always be paramount. Yet I found it a bit odd that after the first rain delay they resumed play at about 8;10. But then they had a second delay eight minutes later at 8:18. That was a bit odd. But like I said, safety is goal No. 1.

I’m sure the fans were a bit miffed to have to come back in from a long rain delay, only to leave eight minutes later.

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

New law will crack down on land sales to foreigners

Legislation was signed this week to stop the proliferation of illegal purchases of Oklahoma land by aliens and non-U.S. citizens since the legalization of medical marijuana. Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, authored Senate Bill 212 to keep such individuals from directly or indirectly, through a business entity or trust, owning land in the state, unless otherwise authorized by law.

“While there is more work to do, SB 212 is an important step to help us shut down the foreign buy-out of our state by communist China and cartels,” Bullard said. “I’m proud of the work we have put into shutting this down, and I am thankful for Representative Humphrey for his hard work and dedication to this cause as well as the Governor for signing it into law.”

Currently, it is illegal for non-U.S. citizens to acquire or own land in Oklahoma, and if they acquire it “by devise or descent,” they must dispose of it within five years. SB 212 addresses the common practice of foreigners using “straw owners”, which can be individuals, businesses, or trusts, to fraudulently complete real estate transactions to get around the law. It requires any deed

recorded with a county clerk to include an affidavit signed by the person or entity coming into title attesting that the individual, business entity, or trust is lawfully obtaining the land and that no funding source is being used in the sale or transfer that violates any state or federal laws. The bill further requires an affidavit before a county clerk may record any deed. The attorney general will create a separate affidavit for individuals and business entities or trusts to comply with the new law. Businesses engaged in regulated interstate commerce in accordance with federal law are exempt from this prohibition.

Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, is the House principal author of the legislation.

"Anything we can do to stop the drug cartels and the Chinese Communist party from operating illegally in our state, we are going to try to do. This bill helps us stop illegal straw sales of our farmland to these bad actors. I'm grateful to Senator Bullard for his work on this and the governor for his signature, making this law," Humphrey said.

The new law will go into effect Nov. 1, 2023.,

Lankford seeks federal transparency on AI

Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced a bill to require transparency of the federal government’s use of artificial intelligence (AI). The bill would require federal agencies to notify individuals when they are interacting with or subject to decisions made using certain AI or other automated systems. The bill also directs agencies to establish an appeals process that will ensure there is a human review of AI-generated decisions that may negatively affect individuals.

“Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our federal government, but we must always keep security, privacy, and any unintended consequences in mind before we turn any process or decision over to a computer,” said Lankford. “The federal government can and should thoughtfully integrate new technology to help improve customer service for Americans. But agencies

should be transparent about when, where, and how we are interacting with AI to ensure continuous oversight and accountability for how these tools impact Americans.”

“Artificial intelligence is already transforming how federal agencies are serving the public, but government must be more transparent with the public about when and how they are using these emerging technologies,” said Peters. “This bipartisan bill will ensure taxpayers know when they are interacting with certain federal AI systems and establishes a process for people to get answers about why these systems are making certain decisions.”

“No American should have to wonder if they are talking to an actual person or artificial intelligence when interacting with the government. The federal government needs to be proactive and transparent with AI utilization and ensure that decisions aren’t being made without humans in the driver’s seat,” said Braun.

The federal government is already using AI to interact with and make decisions about the public, and use

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of these systems is only expected to grow. While AI systems can help improve government efficiency, they can also pose risks if deployed improperly. People who unknowingly interact with AI can often be confused or frustrated by how or why these systems make certain determinations. The Senators’ bill will increase transparency of the government’s AI use and provide increased opportunities for the public to appeal decisions that may be inaccurate or biased.

The bill requires the Director of Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance to agencies to implement transparency practices relating to the use of AI and other automated systems. This guidance would direct agencies to notify individuals when they are interacting with certain automated systems. It would also require agencies to notify individuals when a critical decision is made about them using an augmented decision process. Finally, the guidance would instruct agencies to establish human review appeals processes for individuals who receive an adverse critical decision made using an augmented critical decision process.

House speaker lauds OU team

Oklahoma House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, congratulated the University of Oklahoma women's softball team and Coach Patty Gasso on their win of the 2023 Women's College World Series.

"I want to congratulate Coach Patty Gasso and the University of Oklahoma women's softball team for winning the 2023 Women's College World Series.

This team made history on multiple fronts, not only winning the championship for a third year in a row, but also setting the record for the best winning percentage in college softball in a single season.

They are the epitome of hard work, determination and excellence and I am proud of not only their accomplishments, but the fact that they call Oklahoma home.

Lankford

Steve Gust

A jaunt to Europe & the Black Forest

By Elaine Warner

The Black Forest sounds like an ominous destination – echoes of fairy tales with witches in gingerbread houses and wolves waiting to prey on innocent children. The name was given to the area by Roman soldiers who found difficulty traveling through parts of the region heavily forested with dark evergreens.

We had arrived at the town of Breisach in the night. It is a popular entry way to the Black Forest, which covers more than 2000 square-miles. Our bus on our half-day tour passed through patches of towering dark trees and swaths of picture-book meadows with small houses with red-tiled roofs. At times we were surrounded by wisps of low-lying clouds.

Our ultimate destination was the Hofgut Sternen Black Forest Village. This collection of buildings includes a four-star hotel (Hofgut Sternen) plus a variety of shops and workshops with demonstrations.

One of the items most associated with the Black Forest is the cuckoo clock, whose origin stretches back into the 17th century. Producing these wooden clocks provided work and income for local farmers during harsh winter months. It wasn’t until the 1800s that the mechanism which produced the cuckoo’s call, a clever arrangement of whistles and bellows, became a standard feature.

A centerpiece of the compound is a giant cuckoo clock. Nearby a clock-making demonstration explained the many elements which go into the making of a cuckoo clock. I was particularly taken with the skill of the hand-carved ornamentation. If you buy a clock here, it comes with a cer-

tificate of authenticity that states that 90 percent of all the parts in the clock are from the Black Forest.

In another area, we watched the finishing touches being added to a Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte – Black Forest Cherry Cake. This threelayered confection was made with dark chocolate sponge cake, cherry jam, sour cherries, Kirschwasser Schnaps, and loads of whipped cream topped with chocolate curls.

We sampled schnapps in a shop which carried items from all over Germany. Time ran out for us before we had a chance to watch a glass blowing demonstration and check out the wide selection of blown-glass pieces.

On the trip back to the ship we passed a number of fields covered with what looked like white sheets. We were told they were fields of white asparagus, a local specialty. We must have been there just before harvest – had it been available, I’m sure Chef Karl would have included it on the special regional section of the menu. I was sad, but my husband was not. I cheered up considerably when I found that one of the desserts that day was Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte.

Our family group broke up after lunch – Jack and Zoe, both with colds, decided on naps. Mark and I were intrigued by the large church which loomed over the town and set out to explore. The road rose steadily up the steep hill from the river and we soon encountered ancient walls and cobblestones.

Climbing on, our walk took us under a tall tower – Hagenbachturm. First mentioned in 1393, it went by several names before being named after a prominent official who was imprisoned there.

Even though we stopped several times on the way up, we were panting by the time we reached

the top of the hill and St. Stephan’s Minster. The church, built between the 12th and 15th centuries blends both Romanesque and Gothic elements. Badly damaged in the Second World War, the structure was not completely restored until 1956.

For me, the most outstanding feature was a large, carved, wooden altar screen (1523/1526). In a side chapel, carved stone figures surrounded a dead Christ. There was no attribution or date that I could find. Though lacking the sophistication of Renaissance sculptures, they were nonetheless moving.

The trip back down the hill was much easier but not much faster. Uneven stone stairs and the cobblestones made slow going for safety’s sake smart.

Later afternoons on our Viking ship provided opportunities to visit in the Lounge and listen to live music. Also during the pre-dinner time, our program director Sharon would give a briefing on the next day’s stop. We left Breisach just before dinner.

In case you’re wondering, I can’t imagine anyone having problems with motion sickness – but my experience with river cruises is limited. We would occasionally feel and/or hear a bump when going through a lock, but otherwise the cruise was so smooth, the only way we could tell we were moving was by looking out the windows.

The Rhine here is the border between Germany and France – “Sprechen sie Deutsch?” on the east side and “Parlez-vous Francais?”on the west. Over the centuries, this region – Alsace – has shifted control numerous times so there’s a real blending of cultures. Our ship would be docking in Kehl, Germany, but we would be crossing the river by bus to our next destination. In my next column, we’ll visit Strasbourg, France.

The 14th century Hagenbachturm was once used as a prison.

Bethima Salgado demonstrated the construction of a Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte at the Black Forest Village.

Handmade cuckoo clocks come in many sizes and designs, but even a small authentic Black Forest clock will cost several hundred dollars.

Elaine

Good part-time jobs for seniors

Many adults nearing retirement age count down the days until they can bid adieu to the daily tasks of commuting and working so they can enjoy much more time for recreation, travel or whatever is they aspire to do.

As enticing as unending free time may seem, some retirees find it is not ideal to be entirely free from the responsibility of working. As current seniors can attest, inflation can drive up the costs of living, meaning that seniors who were once able to afford a certain retirement lifestyle may no longer enjoy that hard-earned luxury.

Others may miss the daily opportunities to socialize that working provides, or the way problemsolving on the job stimulates the brain. But even retirees who miss working may not be ready to return to the workforce full-time. That can make part-time employment an ideal fit for mature workers.

Here's a look at some part-time positions that could be a good fit for older adults reentering the workforce.

Retail sales associate

Working in retail opens seniors up to a wide array of responsibilities and scenarios. Jobs may include greeting customers, making sales, putting out inventory, and helping customers select merchandise. Being personable and having good customer service skills are necessary traits to have when working in retail. Many stores offer part-time employees flexible hours so schedules can be customized.

Consultant

Retirees who loved their job but wanted to spend less time doing it can return as consultants. According to The Balance: Money, individuals often find they earn more per hour working as consultants than they did as full-time staff members. Consulting is a way to share expertise and experience without making a full-time commitment.

Customer service representative

A customer service representative is tasked with helping customers solve problems and ensuring customer satisfaction. He or she may work ain a

Tax credit measure goes into law

traditional office or store location, or answer calls and resolve issues from home.

School positions

Retirees may want to consider jobs working in schools or in related capacities. Driving a school bus is an option if people are willing to undergo the proper training and licensing to operate this type of vehicle. Seniors also may consider working as lunchroom aides or lunch service providers, crossing guards, substitute teachers, and paraprofessionals. School employees will only work a few hours during the day. They'll also enjoy many holidays off as well as summer vacations.

Receptionist

Receptionists greet patients or customers in office settings. According to AARP, they are the welcoming faces of organizations. Answering phones and light clerical work also may be required of receptionists. Those who want to work off-peak hours can think about working nights and weekends in hospitals or skilled nursing facilities.

Good news for 490,000 Oklahoma caregivers

Oklahoma will be the first state in the nation to adopt an expansive caregiver tax credit after the Caring for Caregivers Act became law this month. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

House Majority Leader Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City, who championed the legislation in the House, praised the enactment of the bill that will allow tax credits for individuals who are caring for older loved ones in their homes.

"For Oklahoma's 490,000 family caregivers, caregiving is decidedly a labor of love, but the experience is stressful, isolating and has a real financial cost," West said. "This will provide these unpaid family caregivers much-needed financial relief and keep loved ones at home and out of costly taxpayer-funded nursing home. This presents a great solution that lets Oklahomans take care of

their own without having to rely on the government to take charge of their family members."

HB1029XX – The Caring for Caregivers Act – will allow a tax credit up to 50% of eligible caregiver costs, capped at $2,000 per year for most participants and $3,000 per year for those caring for veterans or people with a dementia-related diagnosis. Eligible expenses include home modifications such as installing a ramp, durable medical equipment, assistive technologies, home health and more.

The family caregiver must have a federal adjusted gross income below $50,000 for single filers or $100,000 for joint filers. The credit is for out-ofpocket costs incurred by the unpaid family caregiver for a limited set of services. It is capped at $1.5 million per year.

Other states offer smaller tax cred-

its to certain caregivers or for expenses like home modifications, but according to AARP, Oklahoma is the first to adopt the more expansive credit.

According to AARP's Valuing the Invaluable report released earlier this year, Oklahoma family caregivers provide a staggering $6.6 billion in unpaid care with the average individual spending an estimated $7,200 a year on expenses related to their duties. That’s on top of the emotional and physical challenges that often come with providing unpaid care for an older loved one.

A recent AARP survey shows 93% of Oklahoma family caregivers pay out-of-pocket expenses for the following;

Transportation – 84%

Medical equipment – 50%

Home modifications – 42%

Hire in-home support services –28%

Respite services – 16%

AARP Oklahoma State Director Sean Voskuhl also praised the enact-

ment of the legislation.

“We appreciate the strong leadership from House Majority Leader Tammy West and Sen. John Michael Montgomery and commend the Oklahoma Legislature for becoming the first in the nation to pass an expansive caregiver tax credit bill to ease the financial burden family caregivers face. When 91% of Oklahomans agree on an issue regardless of political affiliation, the message is clear, and we applaud our legislators for taking action,” Voskuhl said. "Family caregivers are the backbone of our country’s long-term care system. The Caring for Caregivers Act recognizes the hard work and sacrifice and helps lessen the financially challenging impacts of family caregivers’ responsibilities.”

The measure passed the House unanimously in special session and earned majority passage in the Senate where it was carried by Sen. John Michael Montgomery.

Local news?

Information on Edmond art group

The Edmond Art Association meetst on the 4th Monday of every month from 7-9pm.Visitors may attend for a small fee of $5 and a membership is only $35 a year. The group of local artists was established almost 52 years ago and brings monthly demonstrations by local Oklahoma artists, in addition to local shows and exhibits. We are currently meeting at St. Mary's Episcopal Church on 3100 N. Broadway, Edmond, OK.

Our Sept. 25th demo artist is Alisa Nelson of Edmond. Alisa has a degree from Abilene Christian University and has taught in many capacities.including the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond and now owns her own business teaching childrens art classes. She will be doing a demo in the medium of Cassein. More info can be found on her website www.alisaneelsonstudio.com and also on FB & Instagram.

License renewal reform

Members of the House Democratic Caucus applaud the passage of HB1956, signed into law this week.

The new law allows Oklahomans to renew their occupational licenses with the state despite their tax status.

Co-author Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa said this law delivers real help to the working professionals in her district and throughout Oklahoma.

“To the nurse in my district who was denied renewal of her license because she wasn’t quite done paying off her back taxes, and who reached out for help-thank you for everything you do, and help is here,” Rep Provenzano said.

Co-author Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman said it’s important to keep skilled laborers in the workplace.

“With the current deficit of skilled workers in Oklahoma, removing barriers to work and paying off debt is a no brainer. I’m proud to be part of legislation that helps working families get on their feet.” Rep. Deck said.

Current law requires state licensing entities to deny renewal applications of those who owe back taxes.

Co-author Rep. Annie Menz, DNorman said it’s important that legislators find ways to protect working people.

"I was thrilled to be able to coauthor this important legislation and I'm grateful that the Governor signed it. I will always stand up for working people and any effort to improve the quality of life for Oklahoma families."

Rep. Menz said.

Co-author Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City is a leading advocate for Oklahomans with intellectual disabilities and said this legislation would positively impact families who rely on state-licensed therapists.

"Families who rely on specialized therapists for their children will have a continuation of services with the passing of HB1956 into law. I’m proud and honored to be a part of legislation that helps take the weight off families who have a child with a disability," Rep. Hefner said.

Obituary

Edmond Trail Blazer, Dr. Nancy N. Robertson Wotring

Nancy Neal Robertson Wotring, Ed.D, was born on December 19, 1934, in Ponca City, Oklahoma. She died peacefully with her family at her bedside in Sugar Land, Texas on March 28, 2023, at the age of 88. Nancy Wotring is survived by her husband of 65 years, Earnest Howard Wotring, Jr., Ph.D, a former minister of The First Methodist Church of Edmond, OK. Dr. Wotring and her husband moved to Edmond in 1965. Dr. Nancy Wotring was the Principal of Ida Freeman Elementary School in Edmond for 15 years, from 1983 to 1998. At the time she became principal of Ida Freeman, she was the first female principal at Ida Freeman. Her career in the Edmond Public Schools began in 1972 as a kindergarten teacher. She taught kindergarten at Clyde Howell Kindergarten until 1977. Subsequently, she worked as an elementary school counselor at Sunset, Will Rogers and Russell Dougherty Elementary Schools until 1983.

Dr. Wotring is survived by her four children who attended Edmond Public Schools and graduated from Edmond Memorial High School: Cynthia N. Wotring Ulrich, M.Ed., and her husband Steve Ulrich of Edmond, Oklahoma; Deborah M. Wotring, Attorney at Law of Houston, Texas; Melissa M. Wotring-Norman, M.D., and her husband Bryan Norman, Ph.D., of Lubbock, Texas; and Earnest W. Wotring, Attorney at Law and his wife Ju Wotring of Houston, Texas. Dr. Wotring’s surviving 9 grandchildren include Aaron F. Meek, Attorney at Law and his wife, PJ Meek, Noah E. Meek, Attorney at Law and his wife, Heather Meek, RN, Michelle W. Landis, D.P.T., Alexander E. Norman, M.S.I.E., Laura N. Landis, M.D., Jacob F. Norman, MSBME, Elliott B. Norman(Medical Student), Samantha K. Wotring, and Nicole C. Wotring. Her five great grandchildren include Anne Meek, Gus Meek, Thomas Meek, Ophelia Meek, and Lucia Meek. She is also survived by her sister, Ann McPhail and her husband, Clark McPhail and brother, Frank Robertson and his wife Jill Robertson along with many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Dr. Wotring’s memorial service will be in Edmond on June 24, 2023, 10:00 A.M. at First United Methodist Church Edmond, OK. Burial service will be at 11:30 A.M. at Memorial Park Cemetery, Edmond, OK. For information please see Memorial Park Park and Cemetery at dignitymemorial.com.

Donations in her honor can be made to Edmond Public Schools Foundation (connection below) using Nancy Robertson Wotring, Ed.D., Ida Freeman Elementary School Library Book Endowment Fund in the notes.

The funds will be used to endow the Ida Freeman Elementary Library Book Fund each year in perpetuity. Dr. Wotring loved reading to and with her family and students. In this way we will remember her foresight and dedication to education.

Artwork from Alisa Nelson of Edmonde. She will be the4 featured speaker of the group Sept. 25.

A passing grade for live-action film

By George Gust

“The Little Mermaid” is the live action reimagining of the 1989 Disney animated classic adaptation of the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale. A young mermaid (Halle Bailey) makes a deal with a sea witch (Melissa McCarthy) to trade her beautiful voice for human legs so she can discover the world above water and impress a prince (Jonah Hauer-King). There’s no doubt that this most recent iteration of “The Little Mermaid” aims to engender the nostalgic feeling that the music and story of the original stirred in a generation of movie-goers. The only problem with that approach is that this live action interpretation does little else to justify its widespread release. There are some story and visual elements that have been added to this interpretation that are welcome and new, but on balance this live action version feels like a pale copy of the original animated film. As is the case with many of these re-imaginings there is a magical element that is lost making the jump from a colorful and vibrant animation that can exaggerate the animalistic expressions to comedic and emotional effect to a flatter, yet more ‘realistic’ nature documentary style. And the largest causality of this changeover is removal of the slapstick elements that younger kids loved about the original movie.

The performances in “The Little Mermaid” are a mixed bag with some engaging turns from the two leads, with the surrounding cast leaving much to be desired. Bailey impresses early in the film with a fantastic rendition of “Part of Your World” and shows a great screen presence throughout, even as the story removes her voice. Hauer-King is given more backstory and ethos to play than his animated counterpart which adds a more relatable element to the performance. And there is a winning chemistry between the two which adds a more believable romance to this film than existed in the brief courtship seen in the original. However, the supporting cast

misses the mark and doesn’t live up to the original. Javier Bardem as King Triton looks bored to be part of the proceedings and doesn’t bring the gravitas that his past performances have shown he can bring. Awkafina as Scuttle the over-the-top bird delivers another whacky vocal performance like her turn in “Raya and the Last Dragon” but it feels like an uninspired rendition of the character.

Overall, “The Little Mermaid” is one of the better live-action Disney re-imaginings adding some story elements that deepen the human story and feature some entertaining performances. However, the live action look and style remove much of the comedy and life that made the original a VHS repeat classic for a generation of kids. And the additions this film has made to the original bloat the runtime to over 2 hours, which feels like an eternity compared to the quickly paced 1 hour 20 minutes of the original. “The Little Mermaid” 2023 won’t likely be your family’s favorite version of the story, but it achieves its goal of being a nostalgic return to the world and songs of the original.

“The Little Mermaid” is rated PG for action/peril and some scary images.

3 out of 5 stars

Answers on Page 19

Dealer donates

Bob Moore Auto Group has helped the next generation of service technicians by donating an electric vehicle to Francis Tuttle Technology Center.

The vehicle, a 2020 Nissan Leaf, will be available to Automotive Service Technology students at Francis Tuttle’s Danforth Campus starting next school year. Students will get a firsthand look at how EVs operate, how they are maintained, and how they can be serviced to prepare for their future careers.

Bob Moore Auto Group is a member of the Danforth Auto Service program’s advisory committee, a group of professionals who advise on industry training. Danforth Automotive instructor Kody Van Osdol said service managers from Bob Moore asked him about the Nissan Leaf earlier in the spring.

The vehicle will be ready for students when classes resume in August.

The Nissan Leaf adds to Francis Tuttle’s effort to offer Alternative Energy Vehicle (AEV) training. AEV training is offered at the Rockwell Campus to first responders for safety in the field

Crossword Puzzle

Answers on Page 19

Awards and Recognition for UCO Business Students

University of Central Oklahoma College of Business

annual Oklahoma Love's Entrepreneur Cup Business Plan

to right, Jenny Love Meyer, chief culture officer for Love's Travel Stops; Kyla Patterson, an MBA student from Chickasha, Oklahoma; Nikki Boyar, an MBA student from Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas; Davin Burton, an MBA student from Spirit River, Alberta; and, Maurice Haff, team adviser and instructor of business at Central.

Election integrity bills are signed into law

Legislation was signed into law last week to further secure Oklahoma elections and protect legitimate voters, including military personnel serving overseas. The three bills were authored by Sen. Brent Howard, R-Altus, and Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee.

“The Legislature passed these measures overwhelmingly to further strengthen our election and voting processes by providing more time for our military heroes to get their absentee ballots in, clarify how physically incapacitated citizens are to fill out their absentee ballots, and ensure illegals are not able to vote in our elections,” Howard said. “These are commonsense but necessary reforms, and with many important elections coming up next year, I’m glad to have them on the books to protect the integrity of our Oklahoma elections and ensure the votes of all Oklahoma citizens are properly counted.”

SB 375 specifies that primary elections will occur on the third Tuesday of June instead of the last Tuesday of June. Additionally, it moves the starting date of the candidate filing period from the second Wednesday in April to the first Wednesday. This ensures election officials have sufficient time during the 45-day window between the last primary election and the runoff to meet the federal and state deadlines to get absentee ballots to servicemen and women deployed overseas. The new law became effective upon being signed by the governor.

SB 376 clarifies that if someone signs on behalf of a physically incapacitated voter on an absentee ballot affidavit, the assistant must sign the voter’s name. There is another section on the affidavit for the assistant to sign his or her personal name. Confusion over current law wording resulted in what should have been

valid ballots being discarded because they could not be traced back to the registered voter. This will go into effect Nov. 1, 2023.

SB 377, which will also become effective Nov. 1, will require the cancellation of voter registration of anyone excused from jury duty for not being a U.S. citizen. County court clerks will prepare a list each month of these individuals and submit it to their county election board secretary, who will cancel the registrations and report them to the district attorney and the U.S. attorney for that county.

The bill will also allow county election boards to re-send returned voter I.D. cards to the mailing address on file if the card has been returned to the board due to “no mail receptacle,” which occurs especially in rural areas where voters cannot or choose not to receive mail at their physical address. Voters will also now be allowed to get their voter I.D. card in person at the county election board with proof of identity.

"These measures will improve our elections, ensuring members of the military receive primary and general ballots on time and that those who are physically incapacitated have their votes counted while protecting our voter rolls from people not eligible to vote,” Newton said. “I'm glad to see these signed into law and thank Senator Howard for asking me to be the House author of this important legislation."

The bills were requested by Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax.

“These laws will help protect the rights of military voters, enhance the integrity of our elections, and improve service to our state’s voters. We are very appreciative of the authors’ leadership in shepherding these bills through the Senate and the House of Representatives,” Ziriax said.

Medicare seminars being offered

The Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) announced last week that they will host free educational events for Medicare beneficiaries in Oklahoma this summer. These events aim to provide unbiased Medicare resources to consumers and offer them an opportunity to ask questions directly to industry experts.

Medicare 101 is designed to help Oklahomans understand the complexities of Medicare and make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. Whether they are approaching Medicare eligibility or looking to enhance their existing coverage, these events will provide the necessary insights to navigate the Medicare maze.

The events will be held in the OID’s public conference room, located at 400 NE 50th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105. Each event will run from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and will be open to the public.

Medicare 101 Event Schedule

June 19, 2023, at 2 p.m.

July 17, 2023, at 2 p.m.

August 21, 2023, at 2 p.m.

September 18, 2023, at 2 p.m.

students placed third overall and received two individual awards at the 19th

Competition. Pictured, left

Career Tech teacher garners national award

Oklahoma CareerTech science instructor

Heather Voss was honored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) as a 2023 State recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

Voss teaches science and math in the Computer Science Academy at Francis Tuttle Technology Center. She is one of three Oklahoma educators to be recognized as a PAEMST State winner, and all are eligible to receive a national award.

“I feel so honored to be nominated for science this year and to be selected as a finalist,” Voss said. “When I received the call that I was one of the finalists, it was during the same class that was videoed as part of the application process. Those students told me they thought it was a given that I would be a finalist, despite the tough competition.

I feel blessed to know those students think so highly of me.”

Juliette Dalhed, a science and math instructor in the Biosciences and Medicine Academy at Francis Tuttle, was nominated for a PAESMNT state award.

PAEMST instructors are selected from across the country. They were all recognized by the NSF in a virtual celebration meeting in May.

“The important thing is, win or lose at the national level, you are all winners at the state level,” Dr. Robert Mayes, Program Director for Excellence Awards in Science and Engineering, said to award recipients.

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Voss has been an instructor at Francis Tuttle since 2015. She holds a Master of Science degree in Nuclear Physics from Iowa State University and Bachelor of Science degrees in Physics and Mathematics from Oklahoma State University.

PAEMST are the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government for K-12 STEM teachers. It recognizes educators who have extensive knowledge of the subjects they teach and the ability to motivate students to learn more. This year is the 40th anniversary for PAEMST, with over 5,200 teachers recognized during that time.

“What you have accomplished is already a testament to your contributions to the next generation of scientists and leaders,” Dr. Jermelina Tupas, Deputy Director of Equity for Excellence in STEM with the NSF, said. “That’s the good thing about being. Teacher: you can see through generations and before you know it, they are already leading the pack because of what you have started.”

National award winners receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation, a paid trip to Washington, D.C., to attend a series of events and professional development opportunities, and a certificate signed by President Joe Biden.

Francis Tuttle has academies in Computer Science, Biosciences and Medicine, and Engineering. They are open to high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who plan on studying STEM subjects in college.

Magicians’ home sells for $3 million in Vegas

Magicians Siegfried Fischbacher and Roy Horn, known professionally as Siegfried and Roy, met while working on the same cruise ship. They soon turned their mutual love of animals into a dazzling stage show featuring tigers and toured the European club circuit. Invited to perform in Vegas in 1967, they made the city their home for the rest of their lives. The duo headlined at the Mirage from 1990 to 2003. The Mirage show was famous for featuring white lions and tigers but was closed when one of the tigers mauled Roy during the show. Siegfried succumbed to Covid-19 in 2020, and Roy’s death from cancer followed shortly afterward, prompting the sale of their spectacular Vegas compound.

On the market for just a few days, the property realized its $3 million asking price with a sale to Brett Carden, owner of the Carden International Circus. Built in 1954 and purchased by the magicians in 1982, the compound known as the “Jungle Palace” or “Little Bavaria” spans eight acres of grounds, and includes multiple parcels with several homes, three pools, and animal

enclosures. White lions and tigers once roamed the grounds and were said to sleep in the same bed with Roy. Statues and paintings of big cats still decorate the meticulously turned-out property.

The compound’s main house covers 8,750 square feet and is marked by striking architecture. Bold style choices include a black-tiled bathroom with a red tub, a stunning entryway with gilded staircase, stained glass windows and terra cotta tile floors.

A cheetah-themed mural adorns one bedroom, another room features a stunning multi-colored ceiling, and unique design elements feature throughout. During the pair’s lifetime, the mansion was also home to a collection of celebrity relics, including Liberace’s cufflinks and Genghis Khan’s sword.

The largest of the property’s other homes is 1,959 square feet, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Two additional homes have their own pools, One guest house is 1,588 square feet while the other measures 1,875 square feet.

Celebrating with Three Dog Bakery

Three Dog Bakery recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand reopening at 1380 W Covell Road Suite 100 Edmond.

Three Dog Bakery started with a beloved rescue pup named Gracie, the sweetest soul with a highly sensitive stomach. From the very first batch of wholesome, handmade treats, they saw how magical doggie devotion can be.

Three Dog Bakery is a place where pets are family and deserve the very best. They specialize in hand made gourmet treats that are made right in the store! Pupcakes, celebration cakes, cookies and much much more! They also carry a variety of other items such as toys, chews, collars, supplements and everything in between so they can be your one stop pup shop! To learn more about Three Dog Bakery, visit www.threedog.com

OSU’s partnership with SW Airlines

Oklahoma State University is a new partner in Destination 225°, a First Officer development and recruitment program at Southwest Airlines.

The new partnership gives OSU professional pilot students access to a career pathway, which can lead to becoming competitively qualified for a commercial pilot career at Southwest.

“Southwest is pleased to welcome Oklahoma State University to our Destination 225° Program through the University Pathway,” said Lee Kinnebrew, vice president of flight operations at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to working with Oklahoma State students as we continue to prepare and inspire the next generation of aviation talent who will join the Southwest family.”

Destination 225° University Pathway candidates build postgraduate flight instructing time within their college's flight program to become competitively qualified to interview for a First Officer role at one of the program's partner carriers. After building their flying experience at a partner carrier, Southwest Airlines considers candidates for a First Officer position. Additionally, candidates receive ongoing career mentorship from a Southwest pilot during their university studies and early flying career.

“We are very excited to add the Southwest Airlines Destination 225° program to support our students,” said Dr. Chad Depperschmidt, head of the School of Educational Foundations, Leadership and Aviation. “This partnership offers students a chance to be mentored by Southwest Airlines pilots, and it is a direct pathway to become competitively qualified for a pilot career at a major U.S. airline.”

Joshua Brant is completing his bachelor’s degree in aerospace administration and operations with a professional pilot option at OSU.

“Southwest’s Destination 225° program is a wonderful opportunity with one of the most highly sought-after airlines,” Brant said. “It allows young pilots like me to build the experience we need to succeed and to connect with mentors that can provide reassurance or to help us understand the process of becoming an airline pilot. I can focus on my training instead of stressing about where my career will go next.”

Promotions at QCB

Pammella Duran was promoted to Assistant Vice President recently by Quail Creek Banks board of directors. Duran had five years of banking experience prior to joining the bank in 2019 as an operations specialist. Duran is a crucial part of our New Accounts department, and has received several promotions as a result of her hard work. Duran also manages our Financial Literacy program and spends many days in the classroom, teaching in several area schools. Duran is a leader in the bank, respected by all her peers and customers.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Southern Nazarene University, and previously worked abroad in the accounting industry from her home country of Brazil. She is a member of the Oklahoma Banker’s Association (OBA) Emerging Leaders class of 2023, and is trilingual. Outside of work, Duran, along with her husband Noe, are cheering for their sons (Noah and Santiago) on the competi-

tive soccer pitch. Their family also takes yearly international trips to warmer climates with sand and waves at their feet.

———

Also Tim Goodwin was promoted to Compliance & BSA/OFAC Officer by the board of directors recently. Goodwin joined the bank in 2019, after graduating from East Central University with a major in applied mathematics. Initially hired as a teller, he moved to compliance within his first month at the bank. After spending a year learning compliance, Goodwin then moved to audit to enrich his banking knowledge. Two years later, the bank needed a manager for the compliance department and sought Goodwin for the position. His work ethic, knowledge, and previous experience in the department made him perfect for this new role.

Goodwin resides in Edmond, with his wife, Loren. He enjoys spending time with friends and family, loves the outdoors and his two dogs, Ada and Alma.

Pammella Duran

Tim Goodwin

Grant given to study obesity

A $1 million grant to the TSET Health Promotion Research Center will help stimulate research on the complex factors that lead to obesity, its impact on the body and new treatments or tools in managing it. The TSET Board of Directors approved the grant funding Thursday.

The HPRC has built an internationally recognized research program, training center and laboratory focused on understanding tobacco-related diseases, treatment and risk factors and developing new methods in tobacco prevention and cessation. This new initiative will expand the scope of the HPRC’s work into obesity.

Along with tobacco use, obesity contributes to the four leading causes preventable deaths in our state: heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and cancer.

“Our work focuses on helping Oklahomans live healthier lives. One way we can continue to innovate our efforts in grants and programs is better understand the complexity of obesity,” said Julie Bisbee, executive director of TSET. “Obesity represents a serious threat to public health similar to tobacco use,

and TSET is proud to partner on efforts to increase research in Oklahoma and addressing this epidemic.”

Oklahoma ranks 4th in the nation for adult obesity, and 14th for childhood obesity. Nearly one-third of Oklahoma children are at an unhealthy weight. Studies show that children who are obese are more likely to experience obesity as adults.

“The prevalence of obesity has increased at an alarming rate in Oklahoma and across the world,” said Dr. Michael Businelle, co-director of the HPRC. “This expansion will enable us to identify specific risk factors for obesity in Oklahomans and support the development of new methods to prevent and treat the condition.”

The problem also represents an economic burden to the state. Obesity-related health conditions and diseases cost the state around $1.1 billion in expenditures each year.

In June 2022, the Oklahoma State Department of Health released a statewide obesity plan outlining the goal of reducing childhood obesity by 3% and adult obesity by 1% by 2026.

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

They hope it opens the door for other religions

Hindus welcome taxpayer religious school

Hindus have welcomed reports of Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board approving the first publicly funded religious school in the nation, and hope that the Board will be receptive to such proposals from ‘other’ religions also.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, who has written to the Board for application form and process to start a religious Virtual Charter School and has not yet received a response, in a statement in Nevada today, commended the Board for this step, pointing out that religion was important in the lives of Americans and Oklahomans and it

spreads the message of peace.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, said that Board should be welcoming to other religious groups of Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Jews, Sikhs, Bahai’s, etc.; when they present such projects to the Board in the future.

Rajan Zed emphasizes that religion is highly important and beneficial for the overall wellbeing of the society as a whole.

It advocates forgiveness; brings deep positive changes; contributes to meaningful, healthier and happier lives; creates a sense of community;

develops relationship with each other and God/supernatural-other; encourages selfless service, helping the helpless and caring of the community; helps cultivate positive emotions; improves our capacity to deal with life’s stresses; promotes ethics, good morals and charity; provides positive strength and courage; reduces anxiety about dying; teaches goodwill and self-control; etc.

Religion provides a unique service to the community and tax dollars on religion was money well spent if all the major religions are represented, Zed adds.

Rajan Zed