Edmond Life and Leisure - June 22, 2023

FOUR SEASONS

Enjoy LibertyFest fun

our

LibertyFest guide inserted in today's issue

Get out your best Star Spangled clothes, because it’s that time of year again.

In Edmond, the entire patriotic grandeur is wrapped up in a neat package called LibertyFest. This year we’ll be marking the 51st edition of the festival, which draws raves from all over Oklahoma, as well as the nation.

LibertyFest is comprised of many events, which lead up to the grand

ole day itself — July 4.

On that Tuesday there will be a major parade in downtown Edmond starting at 9 a.m. And then that night there will be a massive fireworks show at around 9:30 p.m. at Hafer Park.

If you need help remembering those times, you’re in luck. This week we put out our annual and official LibertyFest program and event guide.

It’s a 40-page guide that lists all the

events and times and features the people who help put on this wonderful effort.

They include Eriech Tapia, who is this year’s president of LibertyFest. The guide is inserted in this week’s edition. Please keep it, read it and consider supporting the guide’s advertisers.

So stay informed and consider one other thing. Please have a great time saluting our nation.

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

paper. Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. For more information, see page 4.

PHOTOS BY ERIECH TAPIA

LibertyFest fun

Heard on Hurd

Downtown Edmond is the place for fun. Just ask Alaina Smith (10) and Giana Monetti (10) enjoying the snow cones and face painting at the monthly Heard on Hurd event. Heard on Hurd is sponsored by Citizens Bank of Edmond and is held the third Saturday of the warm weather months.

Lily and Luke Terrell checking out the hot air balloon basket, which was at the Truck-A-Truck event Saturday at the University of Central Oklahoma parking lot. The event, sponsored by Edmond Electric, is a benefit Edmond’s HOPE Center, which helps the needy. Touch-A-Truck was originally scheduled for June 2 but bad weather forced a postponement.

Touch-A-Truck

MELINDA INFANTE

A classic Chevy on display,

Fresh start for LibertyFest’s 51st year

It is time once again for Edmond to host the largest and certainly the best 4th of July festival in the State of Oklahoma and beyond, LibertyFest. It is now beginning its 51st year of celebration and no community celebrates their patriotism like Edmond folks. It is an honor that Edmond Life & Leisure has once again been selected to produce the official program for LibertyFest that is included in this week’s issue of the paper and is online from our website www.edmondlifeandleisure.com. We look forward to seeing you at all the magnificent events for this fantastic 51st year of celebration.

Ray Hibbard

Last year, the 50th celebration of LibertyFest was spectacular. Most of the folks working on the committee had been doing so for 30 or more years. The committee chairs had been in place for decades. It was the perfect team to have our 50th celebration with all that experience on hand. We had the same treasurer, secretary and same schedule of events.

So, what do you do to start the 51st year of LibertyFest? Adding to the challenge was that all those experienced committee folks decided that it would be a good time to retire from the committee since we had just celebrated the 50th anniversary. I mean just about 100%. They did not plan it together. It was just that each of them was thinking the same thing. Heath issues were a consideration as well.

Being at any of the events all day in the summer heat is hard on any age group. These entrenched folks forged ahead for so many years in service to LibertyFest and we appreciate what they did to make it the greatest celebration in Oklahoma. Longtime committee member, June Cartwright, was going to stay and steer us through all the changes but tragically we lost her early last year.

I would have been willing to step in as president again but honestly, this magnificent celebration of the 4th of July needed youth and energy to begin the next 50 years. Heck folks, I will turn 65 in a few weeks. Granted, that is young compared to the average age of previous Libertyfest committee presidents but June and I both had talked about much younger folks taking over LibertyFest.

In typical June fashion of being prepared, she had recruited a young man who had been active in the Edmond community for years. She made sure he had been named president of LibertyFest and we are all blessed for what June did. His name is Dr. Eriech Tapia, and he was working on obtaining his Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma. Both his undergraduate degree and masters came from the University of Central Oklahoma. June thought that left him plenty of time to be president of LibertyFest.

Of course, when he agreed to the job, he thought June would be right there to run interference and help the process along. Eriech did not shrink from his acceptance of responsibility. He moved forward in a big and bold way. Here are a few highlights of his success:

He replaced all the vacant positions with a group of young and energetic committee members. These folks are smart and full of youth. They have experience running other festivals and took on their roles in LibertyFest with an incredible attitude. They listened to what had been done in the past but did not hesitate to change what needed to be changed such as

moving all the books to electronic formats. Forms are now digital and more. Odds are that we will not have committee members that stay for thirty years in the future so now the information will be so easy to pass along to the next person that helps put on part of the LibertyFest events.

LibertyFest has always been run on sound financial footing and reporting. The books are audited each year with full reports going to the City of Edmond. We use an outside CPA to review and conduct the audit. Eriech has continued this important function. He has also recruited new sponsors and found a way to decrease some of the cost. LibertyFest is a total volunteer effort with no paid positions, yet he still found ways to cut expenses keeping most of the events free for the public.

He added an event called the ballet and the band concert. It was held right before the flag retirement ceremony conducted by the VFW. I was not able to attend but it was a big hit. Over three hundred people showed up for the show and I am told a couple of recruits for the Army enlisted as well.

He did all of this while finishing his Ph. D from OU. There were times that were tough, but Eriech kept his cool and worked through any issues like the professional that he is. I am telling you folks; we owe the man a giant “Thank You” for making sure that LibertyFest happens this year but also for rebuilding the committee structure for future success as well.

Thank you Dr. Eriech Tapia!

We need volunteers for next year as well. Two events this year could not be held due to a lack of a chair for the committee. One is the beloved KiteFest and the other is the Road Rally. If you have an interest in helping with either of these or other committees for LibertyFest shoot me an email, ray@edmondpaper.com. Some committees have cochairs this year which makes for cutting the work in half and can be fun if friends do it together. So, come on your kite flyers, step forward and help us bring the event back next year! Planning is a yearlong activity, but we only meet once per month for an

hour to coordinate activity and help each other so email me now to get involved at any level.

We also owe a giant thank you to Citizen’s Bank of Edmond for being the Premiere sponsor for this big event. "LibertyFest is truly one of the best line-up of celebrations in Oklahoma. “Citizens Bank of Edmond is proud to be a headlining sponsor of LibertyFest and we look forward to seeing our friends and neighbors at the events throughout our community, celebrating our great nation,” said Citizens Bank of Edmond CEO, Jill Castilla. Castilla will be this year’s parade marshal. She has brought security and soundness to the oldest, locally owned bank in Edmond as well as recognition and innovation from around the nation.

Edmond’s July 4th Festival is a non-profit 501(c)3 operation made up of individual volunteers from the Edmond area. Its purpose is to produce a series of family-oriented events around the 4th of July to celebrate the birthday of this great nation and the heritage of Oklahoma. As the host city of LibertyFest, Edmond highlights a series of events that help enhance the quality of life in Edmond, show pride in the community, support for non-profit and civic organizations, and provide educational opportunities.

The big heroes for LibertyFest are all the volunteers. They contribute hundreds of hours to making this weeklong celebration easy for Edmond to enjoy. The work and planning for LibertyFest events go on year-round. Volunteers take time away from their families and other responsibilities to make sure we all have a pleasant and safe experience at these events.

We wish you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July and hope you will join us in our Edmond LibertyFest Celebration. It is certainly a fitting tribute to our fine nation. It is one of the best celebrations in our great United States. Our family looks forward to seeing you along the parade route and at all the other events.

(Ray Hibbard may be reached 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. For more

on Edmond public

dok.com/public-art.php.

please visit

In June, men reminded of health checkups

Officials say preventive care can be vital

Men’s health statistics often aren’t something to celebrate. Men live an average of five years less than women. They’re more likely to have high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. And they face more severe cases of dementia.

But hope is available in the form of testing and lifestyle changes that can help slow or stop the progression of these conditions, say experts at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. And that can help make this Men’s Health Month a time to celebrate.

“Men are less likely to get preventive care than women,” said Hal Scofield, M.D., an OMRF physicianscientist. “Many go through young adulthood without needing anything specific from their doctor, so they put it off.”

For years, scientists have studied how and why men are less likely to seek care. Study after study has shown traditional ideas about masculinity — like the need to be tough or brave — result in men ignoring medical problems. A 2022 survey by the Cleveland Clinic found more than half of U.S. men forgo regular checkups.

Scheduling annual physicals and building a relationship with a primary care physician can be critical to prevent a serious condition, though the “delayed gratification” of these visits can be difficult, Scofield said.

“Conditions like cancer and vision loss are much more treatable with early detection, which is only possible through testing like colonoscopies and eye exams,” Scofield said.

OMRF scientist Jasim Ahamed, Ph.D., studies cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for Ameri-

can men. As many as 1 in 4 male deaths is attributed to heart disease each year in the U.S.

The American Heart Association recommends regular blood pressure and cholesterol screenings beginning at age 20. These and other simple tests, like blood sugar assessments, are “inexpensive and effective” ways to monitor heart health, Ahamed said.

Lawmakers not happy with OU raising tuition

Three Senate education leaders last week called on the University of Oklahoma to reconsider the Regents’ decision to raise tuition on students for the third year in a row.

The sharp response from lawmakers is in reaction to the 3% tuition increase the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents approved earlier this week. This is in addition to the increase in 2021 when University of Oklahoma regents approved a 2.75% hike and another 3% increase in tuition for out of state students in 2022.

The tuition increases continue, even after the Legislature pumps more money into higher education. Including this year where higher education received over $1 billion, which represents the largest increase in recent history.

Senate education chairman Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, said the continued tuition hikes are unsustainable for families and kids.

“The higher education system just received the largest increase in appropriations in recent history,” Pugh said. “For any university to turn around and immediately raise tuition on students is absurd. At a time when young adults are considering the value proposition of a degreed program, saddling students and families with more debt increases the likelihood of students seeking alternative pathways for their career. Last year with SB 363, I called for a freeze on tuition and fees for public colleges and universities in Oklahoma. Sadly, that bill stalled. I hope students and parents who are shouldering this burden will call their senators and representatives to begin the conversation surrounding these continuous tuition increases by the universities. At a time when Oklahoma businesses need a skilled and educated workforce more than ever, we should be doing everything in our power to lower the cost of educational attain-

ment, not raise it.”

Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, who is the vice chair of the Senate education appropriations subcommittee, said the university’s continued increase in tuition is harmful to increasing the state’s workforce and critical occupations.

“I was extremely frustrated to see this rate increase less than a month after the Legislature gave higher education a 14.9% increase in its budget," Thompson said. “I am a proud graduate of the University of Oklahoma. I support The University in a variety of ways, and I believe in the value of an education from this institution. However, continuing to raise tuition year after year is unsustainable and an impediment to increasing Oklahoma’s workforce, especially in critical occupations. As a business owner, if I raise the prices of the services I provide, our customers will look for a more cost effective alternative and go elsewhere. To keep our clientele base strong, we find ways to ensure our services are affordable. I strongly suggest the University of Oklahoma find creative ways to save money over burdening future generations of Oklahomans with more debt.”

Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, who is the vice chair of the Senate Education Committee, said college is already unaffordable for most kids and continued tuition increases are doing more harm than good.

“Higher education received over $1 billion in this year’s budget,” Seifried said. "If the University of Oklahoma wants to stay competitive and is serious about keeping students in their classrooms, they need to figure out a way to make it more affordable. Increasing tuition three years in a row will not only increase debt for students but dissuade future students from obtaining a higher ed degree at a time when we are experiencing a workforce shortage."

In addition to testing, Ahamed also recommends proven heart-healthy habits such as a diet based on vegetables and fruits, whole grains and lean proteins, as well as regular physical activity and reducing stress.

“Encourage the men you care for to live a heart-healthy lifestyle,” Ahamed said. “Exercise doesn’t have to be boring; any activity that gets

you moving will be a benefit.”

Scofield noted that by combining social connections with cardiovascular fitness, men check two important boxes.

“Social isolation is associated with an increased risk of dementia and other serious conditions,” he said. “Blending fitness and friendship is a win-win.”

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation physician-scientist Hal Scofield, M.D.

(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law. Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)

June 5

Breydon Gregory Benefield, 26 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Anthony Troy Mishion, Jr., 42 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.

Arthur Gene Island, 59 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of failure to appear.

Yvonnie Velvetta Stone, 49 of Guthrie. Operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license.

Victorine Catherine Stone, 52 of Guthrie. Shoplifting.

June 6

Conner James Dryden, 30, of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned.

Trence Darrell Green, 52 homeless. Felony warrant.

Abby Lyn Durham, 46 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor value) Obtaining by false pretense, trick or deception.

Charles Teaberry Jr., 62, homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

June 7

Terri Anne Stroud, 39 of Luther. Operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Candace Fay Graves, 37 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Precious Renee Fleming, 21 of Spencer. Three counts of failure to appear.

Grant Michael Waters, 39 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

June 8

Philip Don Robinson Jr., 42 of Choctaw. Public intoxication.

Tony Ray Bowen, 60 of Custhing. Operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

June 9

Angela Rae Wright, 45 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

John Joseph Niewiecki, 53 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Bryan Lee McKinzy, 35 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia, trafficking in illegal drugs and operate (DUI or APC) under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Bryan McCaelam Ward, 30 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Tony Allen Burley, 54 homeless. Public intoxication.

Floyd Christopher Whiting, 39 of Fort Worth, Texas. Obstruction of police officer, (misdemeanor value) obtaining stolen property, (misdemeanor) larceny of lost property, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, felony warrant, (possession of a stolen vehicle) unauthorized use of vehicle or implement of husbandry and elude police officer endanger others (F).

Braian Daniel Corea Rodriquez, 22 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and child endangerment.

June 10

Kenneth Eric Young, of Oklahoma City. Oper-

ate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Alfredo Devon Christian Tapia, 31 of Guthrie. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Kellie Ryan Brody, 23 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Christopher Brett Polen, 48 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Mario Jesus Ontiveros, 34 of Oklahoma City. No tag – improper tag and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Lizbeth E. Corpus, 37 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Arianna Selene Jones, 34 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, two counts possess CDS and public intoxication.

June 11

Cleopatra Zunye Deere, 20 of Norman. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Carin Grace Archer, 20 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Asynnauz Jhaela Nikiemta Griffith, 24 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of ,08 or more.

Taznuva Shaharina Haque, 40 of Edmond. Child endangerment and driving (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Pendavou Lasha Crain, 49 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Efrem Timothy Reese, 48 of Norman. Assault and battery on an EMT.

Weekend calendar of events, June 22-25

What’s Happening

This Weekend June 22-25 --- In the Gallery --- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

--- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 --- 2020

Beginners Pickleball Club --- Farmer’s Market

AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse World Championship

--- Concert in the Park

Edmond LibertyFest Open Rodeo

Cycle 66 Training Ride

LibertyFest Car Show & ParkFest

Vinyl Record Show

Earth, Wind & Fire

Signature Tour

Pollard Theatre presents: Little Shop of Horrors --- National Reining Horse Association Derby

--- Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival --- Make Ready Market

--- Guided Gardens Tour

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

AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse

World Championship Location: Lazy E Arena

Extra Info: Tue, Jun 20 – Sat, Jun 24;

Concert in the Park

Location: Hafer Park

Extra Info: Thu, Jun 22; Free; 6:15 – 9 p.m.; edmondok.gov

Edmond LibertyFest Open Rodeo

Location: Edmond Round Up Club

– Carl Benne Arena

Extra Info: Fri, Jun 23 – Sat, Jun 24; 8 – 11 p.m.; edmondroundupclub.com

Cycle 66 Training Ride

Location: Edmond Library

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 24; 7:30 a.m.; Free; mapmyrun.com

LibertyFest Car Show & ParkFest

Location: Hafer Park

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 24; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Free

Vinyl Record Show Location: Hilton Garden Inn & Edmond Conference Center

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 24; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; $8; vinylrecordshow.com

Earth, Wind & Fire

Location: Riverwind Casino, Showplace Theatre

Extra Info: Fri, Jun 23; 8 p.m.; riverwind.com

Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 24 – Sun, Jun 25; 1 --- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.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

Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival

Location: State Fair Park, The Pavilion Building

Extra Info: Thu, Jun 22 – Sat, Jun 24; Thu & Fri: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Advance tickets: $10; At the Door: $12; quiltcraftsew.com

Make Ready Market

Location: 220 NW 13th st, OKC, OK

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 24; 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; facebook.com

Guided Gardens Tour

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Sat, Jun 24; 10 a.m.; myriadgardens.org

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

Street Party

Heard on Hurd, sponsored by Citizens Bank of Edmond, is held the third Saturday of the month, from March to October. Last weekend, the event was held prior to a big rain storm, which through the state.

New city budget includes paid parental leave policy

As part of the City Council's unanimous approval of the budget for FY 2023-24, the City of Edmond unveiled a groundbreaking employee leave program that provides not only maternity/paternity leave for new parents but also paid time off for employees who are adopting a child or fostering a child.

"As our city continues to grow and we look for ways to improve our constituents' quality of life, this allows us to recruit and retain talented people needed to serve our city," Mayor Darrell Davis said. "Improving opportunities for employees to help manage their health, families, and careers is a positive step."

With the new policies, Edmond is the first city in Oklahoma to offer a week of paid leave for fostering a child.

"Healthy communities are built on a foundation of healthy homes and families. Oklahoma has many children in need of a healthy and supportive home," said Tom Robins, Councilmember representing Ward 1. "Edmond, Oklahoma, is blessed to be a community that supports fostering with city employees willing to open their hearts and homes to foster children. That is why I called for, and City Council voted to support, Edmond, Oklahoma, being the first city in the state to offer a full week – 40 hours – of flexible paid leave each year for employees who are providing foster care. New paid time off policies will also be provided to support adoption. There is no substitute for a safe and stable family to the health and well-being of children in our community."

AAA:

Under the new policy, effective July 1, 2023:

A City employee giving birth will now be eligible for up to 8 calendar weeks of paid maternity leave.

An employee who is the parent of a newborn child whose spouse or partner is the mother now will be eligible for up to 4 calendar weeks of paid leave.

An employee who is in the process of adopting a child now will be eligible for 8 calendar weeks of paid leave upon the initial placement of the adoptive child.

Employees receiving a child as a foster care placement now will be eligible to use a bank of 40 hours of paid leave in a calendar year.

"This innovative policy allows Edmond to recruit and retain talented employees to serve our citizens while supporting their families and providing loving homes for children in our community,” said Lisa Goodpasture, Director of Human Services for the City of Edmond.

The new leave policies were only part of the enhancements included in the upcoming fiscal year budget.

“Edmond wants to recruit and retain a talented workforce to serve our citizens,” said City Manager Scot Rigby. “Across the nation, cities face the challenges of attracting and retaining quality employees. Supporting our employees with benefits that allow them to support their families while opening their hearts and homes to fostering and adoption while serving Edmond citizens is a true winwin."

Be mindful of kids playing

Summer is a favorite time for children to be outside, riding bikes and scooters, and enjoying a whole host of outdoor summertime activities.

But with more children on or near the roadways, the threat of motorists speeding through neighborhoods, driving distracted and ignoring traffic signals can turn a child’s carefree summer into a tragedy. When children haven’t learned safe road-use habits, the threat of injury becomes even greater.

Kids on bikes.png“Whether riding their bikes, scooters or hoverboards, enjoying a walk or other outdoor fun, summer brings more children outside,” says Rylie Mansuetti, public affairs manager, AAA Oklahoma.

“Unfortunately, with more kids in and near the roadways, there’s a greater likelihood of children suffering traffic-related injuries and deaths. Behaviors of both motorists and children can be a recipe for tragedy when safety takes a backseat.”

Statistics show that traffic-related child fatalities peak during the summer months. In the 10-year period from 2012 to 2021, there were a total of 3,334 traffic-related fatalities of children aged 14 and younger nationwide during the months of June, July and August. Fatalities during those three months accounted for 29.4% of all traffic-related child fatalities for the year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While the majority of victims were vehicle occupants, over 16% of child fatalities were pedestrians and nearly 6% were riding bicycles or other pedal-powered transport.

In that same 10-year period, there were 66 traffic-related fatalities of children aged 14 and under in Oklahoma during the months of June, July and August, accounting for over 3% of all traffic-related fatalities during those months, according to NHTSA.

Making summer travel more affordable

Summer is peak travel season. Whether vacationers plan to travel internationally or domestically, they can expect to pay top dollar as they head off for parts unknown.

Much has been made of inflation over the last year-plus, as the cost of seemingly everything has risen considerably since early 2022. And the cost of travel has seemingly increased by an even greater percentage than the cost of groceries. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index indicates the cost of airfare increased by more than 25 percent between January 2022 to January 2023.

Though travel has never been inexpensive, the rising costs noted in the Consumer Price Index have scared

many consumers into staying home, However, consumers who want to travel but don't want to break the bank can try various strategies as they seek to get out of the house this summer.

· Travel domestically. With airfare costs skyrocketing, now might not be the most budget-friendly time to travel overseas. Thankfully, wouldbe vacationers can still get away. Average gas prices in early spring 2023 hovered around $3.43 per gallon, which is nearly $1 less per gallon than the year prior. By driving to their destinations, vacationers can save substantial sums of money and also maintain greater control of their trips, something that isn't always so

easy in an era marked by routine flight delays and cancellations.

· Change your timeline. If a faraway dream destination beckons, travelers might still be able to make it work if they have the flexibility to alter their timelines. Rather than taking a Monday through Friday off from work, consider starting and ending a vacation in mid-week. It's generally less expensive, and sometimes significantly so, to fly mid-week compared to flying Friday-Monday.

· Cash in your credit card points. Another way to ensure summer travel doesn't put a big dent in your savings is to utilize cash back rewards or airline miles linked to your credit card account. If you have a lot of cash and/or miles saved up, the

coming summer of expensive travel could be the ideal time to use them.

· Consider a homestay over a hotel. Homestays, which includes bookings through sites such as Airbnb and VRBO, are typically much less expensive to book than hotel rooms. But homestays also save travelers money on food, as many listings feature fully operational kitchens that can help travelers avoid dining out three times per day over the duration of their trips.

Travel is a significant expense as consumers continue to confront sharp increases in prices on various goods and services. However, it's still possible to vacation without breaking the bank From Metro News

Driving to a vacation destination rather than flying can save travelers lots of money on costly airfare.

Batter up! How corny can you get with cornbread?

By Carol Smaglinski

Remember radio personality Garrison Keillor of Prairie Home Companion back in the day?

He said a lot, but here’s one: “Sex is good, but not as good as corn, fresh sweet corn.”

Well, that's his opinion.

With corn, the best is fresh off the stalk. With shucked corn, with each hour that flies by, the sugar content converts to starch and its sweetness is diminished. Never, never purchase corn that has been shucked as that ear of corn will deteriorate rapidly.

One traditional item is cornbread often served with a big bowl of scrumptious pinto beans, also known as Mexican red beans.

There are no clear-cut rules when making cornbread, which can be a breeze, so don’t just save it for the chilly holidays. There is a cornucopia of different recipes using cottage cheese, jalapeno peppers, green chilies, sour cream, buttermilk and on and on.

However, here is something to consider. When mixing the cornbread batter, because of the large and coarse granules of the cornmeal, it takes longer for it to absorb the liquid. To ensure uniform absorption and avoid annoying lumps, add the liquid slowly making sure that it is thoroughly incorporated.

Take a break and let the batter relax for about 5 minutes before baking. This little “nap” will allow the starches in the cornmeal to swell and soften up. The batter can then be adjusted if needed with a bit more liquid.

Later, while the cornbread is baking in the hot oven, the starches in the cornmeal will bind the batter. During that time, the liquid will produce steam and will be trapped by the starches and the bread will lighten up. Because these starches are somewhat like glue, your best bet is to use a well seasoned pan, such as a cast iron skillet.

Tc guarantee that the cornbread

won’t stick to the sides and bottom,make sure that the if you choose a skillet, it must be well oiled. The oil on the bottom of the pan will enter the porous cooking surfaces, giving them a slick finish and will prevent any rust from forming.

Be sure to season the pan initially. Simply brush the cooking surfaces with a generous amount of flavorless vegetable oil. Put the oiled empty pan in an oven heated to 250 degrees for about 60 minutes. Shut off the heat, but leave the pan in the oven overnight. The next day, wipe off the excess oil with a paper towel. After each use, rinse the pan with water, dry it by wiping with an oil-soaked paper towel. Here’s a new variation of corn bread with red pepper giving the cornbread added spunk.

Cornbread with Red Bell Peppers

2 medium red bell peppers

1-½ cups cornmeal

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 Tbsp. sugar

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup buttermilk

2 cups sweetened condensed milk

3 Tbsp. butter, melted

Set the oven at 400 degrees. Cook the red peppers in boiling salted water for just a minute. Drain, core seed and finely chop. Sift the dry ingredients together into a large bowl. Combine eggs, buttermilk, and a cup of the condensed milk in another bowl. Stir the liquid into the dry ingredients. Stir in the chopped peppers and melted butter. Let sit for about five minutes.

Then, pour the batter into a lightly buttered 9 by 13-inch cake pan, and drizzle the remaining condensed milk over the top of the batter, taking care not to allow the milk to build up in the corners. Try not to tip the pan.

Bake until set and golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes.

By Steve Gust

Voting woes loom? Edmond state senator lauds American Army

I read an article the other day about Georgia voting reform.

Apparently the voting machines there are due an update to their software to prevent any possible hacking. Such outside interference could lead to faulty voting results.

Virtually all walk-in voting in Georgia is done by machine. But here’s the odd part. There isn’t enough time to install the software updates before the 2024 general election.

Wow and huh. That’s interesting.

That election is still almost a year and a half away and they don’t have enough time?

And, of course the Georgia Secretary of State, maintains the machines will be fine and the election process in Georgia is safe.

That statement comes a day after agencies of the federal government reported ransom computer attacks on various agencies. What gets me about that story is the government

wouldn’t name which agencies were attacked. Hey, there is nothing like transparency in government.

I still wonder why Georgia can’t install software updates in a year and a half?

We’re a nation that went to the moon multiple times over 50 years ago. I guess software updates are a lot tougher.

How come we can update our phones in 10 to 15 minutes, but we can’t update a voting system in a year and a half?

When you think about it though, the next election might be a good time to fudge the results. If anyone complains, they can call someone a conspiracy lunatic or insurrectionist and then just move on from the complaint.

At least that’s the standard operating procedure if liberals win. If they don’t then a special prosecutor will be named to find out why updates weren’t done on Georgia voting machines in a timely manner. That’s when people like Nora O’Donnell and Lester Holt will demand answers.

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

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, gave the keynote address ;ast weel during a ceremony at the Oklahoma State Capitol recognizing the 248th anniversary of the United States Army inception and welcomed around 30 new recruits from Oklahoma, who are leaving for basic training.

In paying homage to the Army’s date of inception, Pugh, a United States Air Force Veteran, also thanked the recruits for their willingness to sign up to defend the nation.

“The United States military must always be ready for international uncertainty, and it requires brave and strong men and women who answer the call to put their lives on the line to defend our country,” Pugh said. “Second place is not an option because there is no consolation prize. As we celebrate the 248th birthday of the United States Army, the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen, I applaud these future soldiers for their commitment to their country and for their sacrifice behind their decision to sign up for this path. They have chosen to join the ranks of those who fought at Valley

Forge, San Juan Hill and the Minutemen from the start. Citizens turned soldiers, who have been ready at arms since 1775."

“To these new recruits and future soldiers who stood today inside the Capitol rotunda with their right hand raised and took an oath, thank you. You will be asked to defend your country on behalf of national security interests of the United States. Our nation owes you a debt of gratitude. The Legislature will continue to make Oklahoma the most veteranfriendly state in the country. We are incredibly proud of our military installations, and the great men and women and who fight and serve.”

Sen. Pugh is a former captain in the United States Air Force and AWACS aviator. As an Air Battle Manager, he logged combat support missions in the Global War on Terror, coordinating hundreds of U.S. and allied aircraft at any given time in the theater of operations. Pugh flew missions in Iraq, the Balkans, Asia, and eastern Europe. As chief of Readiness and Inspections, he led and prepared an entire airwing for sustained combat flying operations.

While stationed in Germany, Pugh developed new training methods for aircrews. His ideas to better use technology and integrate training tools saved the USAF and our NATO allies millions annually.\

Awareness for Alzheimer’s disease

By Senator Markwayne Mullin

June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to encourage national conversation about brain health and raise awareness to improve health care outcomes. Over six million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Of that number, 67,000 are Oklahomans. Anyone who is impacted by Alzheimer’s understands the gravity of this disease and the hardship endured by both the individual and the loved ones surrounding them.

Some estimate the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s may triple by 2060. Now more than ever, we must prioritize innovation and access to beat this statistic and work together to end Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. In 2023, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the U.S. an estimated $345 billion. By 2050, these costs could rise to nearly $1 trillion. The incentive for finding a cure for Alzheimer’s is not just personal but economical as well.

This Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Oklahomans who are working to advance research and improve the lives of those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are over 129,000 Oklahomans who are providing care to family or friends who have Alzheimer’s. Special thank you to organizations like the Okla-

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.

homa Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association for offering educational training to recognize the signs of Alzheimer’s and connecting patients with local resources. This is in addition to their support for patients and caregivers and participation in advocacy work and research.

Alzheimer’s disease has impacted both my mother’s and father’s sides of the family, and I know there is nothing more devastating than seeing a family member who is not themselves. While many loved ones provide care without expecting anything in return, please accept my heartful gratitude for your care, patience, and endless support for those you love.

This disease takes and takes some more, and I couldn’t be more grateful for those who keep giving so one day, we can find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. May we never cease in our efforts to find a cure and end Alzheimer’s disease as we know it.

Steve Gust

Adam Pugh

‘I applaud these future soldiers for their commitment to their country.’

State Sen. Adam Pugh

Find lots of family fun in Edmond

By Jennifer Seaton Tourism Director

Visit Edmond

Unplugged activities create lasting memories. Edmond has limitless options for family time. The Boydstun family attends downtown street festivals like VIBES (first Thursdays) and Heard on Hurd (third Saturdays) and shared their experiences.

“We usually start at a downtown restaurant for dinner, then wander around admiring the art, said Matthew Boydstun. “It is fun to run into friends,

participate in various activities and listen to live music. Our kids always have to take photos with the statues, especially Humpty Dumpty.”

Be like the Boydstuns and enjoy your hometown! In addition to street festivals, the following list of attractions will keep your family entertained.

• 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse open Saturdays from 1-4 p.m.

• Pelican Bay Aquatic Center on 9th and Bryant

• Barnett Field Splash Pad at Kelly and Main St

• Two movie theaters: Icon Cinemas at Danforth and Bryant and ShowBiz at I-35 and Covell

• Edmond Library at Boulevard and Main St

• Edmond Unplugged Board Game Lounge in

• Blocworks climbing gym in Downtown Edmond

• UCO’s Co-op Esports and Gaming Arena on University Drive

• Rage Smashers on Broadway

Find an up-to-date event list with details at https://visitedmondok.com/events

The Boydstun family knows where to go for fun — Edmond

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Innovations, Designs, Experiences and Applications (IDEA) team, housed within Central’s Center for eLearning and Connected Environments (CeCE), and Niccole Miller, Ph.D., senior director of strategic initiatives for student success and adjunct professor for UCO’s College of Business, were recently honored for their work in online or hybrid learning by the Oklahoma State Regents' Council for Online Learning Excellence (COLE). Pictured, front row, left to right, Brad Griffith, director of online learning initiatives for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE); Kara Stanley, instructional designer for the University of Oklahoma; Niccole Miller, Ph.D., senior director of strategic initiatives for student success and adjunct professor at Central; Gina NeeDels, instructional tech specialist at Central; and, Andrea Melvin, meteorologist with Oklahoma Mesonet. Back row, left to right, Kathy Essmiller, Ph.D., assistant professor at Oklahoma State University; Christala Smith, instructional designer at Southeastern Oklahoma State University; Sean Gausman, eLearning web developer at Central; Allison Garrett, J.D., OSRHE chancellor; Robert Wall, director of research and development for CeCE at Central; Linda Banks, Ph.D., assistant vice president for Academic Affairs at Central; Chris Fiebrich, executive director at Oklahoma Mesonet; James Hocker, program manager at Oklahoma Mesonet; Michael Turpen, OSRHE regent and chairperson; and, Kevin Kloesel, meteorologist at Oklahoma Mesonet.

Online learning earns UCO recognition

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Innovations, Designs, Experiences and Applications (IDEA) team, housed within Central’s Center for eLearning and Connected Environments (CeCE), and Niccole Miller, Ph.D., senior director of strategic initiatives for student success and adjunct professor for UCO’s College of Business, were recently honored for their work in online or hybrid learning by the Oklahoma State Regents' Council for Online Learning Excellence (COLE).

The UCO CeCE IDEA team was honored with the Oklahoma Online Excellence Award for Innovation for the second consecutive year, which recognizes their design method of continuous refinement to maximize effectiveness. Their goal is to enhance learning experiences around Central’s campus and create interactive learning tools and environments.

“This accomplishment highlights our team’s dedication and innovative approach to developing higher education resources,” said Linda Banks, Ph.D., assistant vice president for Academic Affairs at Central.

“The recognition drives us to continue exploring new horizons and developing creative solutions to enhance the educational experiences of our students, faculty and staff. We remain committed to fostering a culture of innovation, and we are grateful for everyone’s unwavering support in acknowledging this remarkable accomplishment.”

Miller was honored with the Oklahoma Online Excellence Award for Teaching, which recognizes her commitment to improving the quality and effectiveness of online learning experiences. Her instructional videos have made a significant impact on students, faculty and staff, including testimonial evidence of her support and guidance contributing to academic success.

"Dr. Miller consistently demonstrates a desire to excel and a willingness to innovate in all her endeavors," said Jeremy Oller, J.D., Ph.D., dean of the UCO College of Business.

"This award is a result of the tremendous effort she puts into her course preparation combined with a passion to help our learners succeed.”

COLE is a framework that grows knowledge networks and advances collaborative initiatives that enhance student, faculty and institutional success and provides resources for supporting diverse missions of state institutions.

As part of the effort to improve online learning in Oklahoma, COLE members recognize the excellent work of faculty, staff and administrators at Oklahoma's colleges and universities. The Oklahoma Online Excellence Awards were established in 2017 to formally recognize individuals and teams for excellent work in online or hybrid learning.

For more information about COLE, visit www.okhighered.org/cole/.

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

For more information about UCO’s CeCE, visit cece.uco.edu.

Gas prices & a grim anniversary

One year ago, the Oklahoma gas price average reached $4.67 per gallon, setting an all-time record high. Gas prices in the state have dropped 31% since last year, with today’s gas price average sitting at $3.21 per gallon.

This year, recession fears due to high inflation, somewhat curbed by ten straight Federal Reserve interest rate hikes, have pushed crude oil prices lower. When the price of crude oil drops, gas prices typically follow, as more than half the cost of a gallon of gasoline is made up of crude oil costs. Crude oil prices have dropped 40% to 50% since last June when the commodity was trading at about $120 per barrel. By comparison, the price of a barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude has been trading in recent weeks in the upper $60s or low $70s per barrel.

There are factors that could push gas prices higher this summer – a hurricane that shuts down

major U.S. refineries, war or geopolitical issues elsewhere in the world that could impact crude oil supply, or increased demand for gasoline and other energy sources. But if none of these instances occur, gas prices are not expected to reach the levels they did last summer.

“This time last year, gas prices were above $4.50 in many areas of Oklahoma, causing motorists to adjust driving and spending habits,” said Rylie Mansuetti, spokesperson for AAA Oklahoma. “Today gas prices are more than $1 per gallon less than this time last year, fueling the return of the Great American Road Trip and what is likely to be the busiest summer travel season we’ve seen in years. If Memorial Day weekend was any indication, significantly lower gas prices are driving travel plans as the summer travel season kicks into high gear.”

QCB promotions noted

Quail Creek Bank introduces Jeff Hayden as Treasury Management Officer and Vice President. Hayden’s role with the bank will focus on providing concierge level service to our business depository customers through our treasury offering which includes remote deposit capture, lockbox, ACH and credit card processing to name a few. Hayden has been in the banking industry for nine years and graduated with a Master of Business Administration from Oklahoma Christian University in 2012. Prior to his banking career, Hayden was a Home-Based Case Manager for nine years, working with families and DHS Child Welfare workers. He and his wife of 16 years, Katie, reside in Edmond with their daughter.

——-

In other QCB news, Jerika Coffman was recently promoted to senior vice president & chief credit officer by the board of directors. After completing an Oklahoma Bankers Associ-

ation (OBA) internship in 2009, she made Quail Creek Bank her career home in 2011 as a credit analyst. Coffman holds a major in finance with a minor in accounting from The University of Oklahoma, and is currently attending the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. In addition to her role at the bank, Coffman sits on the Oklahoma Banker’s Association (OBA) Intern Committee each year and interviews candidates interested in a summer internship, the same program she began her banking career through.

She also serves on the Basic and Intermediate School of banking boards at the OBA. Coffman has been married to husband, Brett, for eleven years and they have two daughters, Evyn and Aidyn. They spend much of their evening and weekend time at the ball field for either the girls’ games or Brett’s games as softball and tennis coach for a local area school.

Jeff Hayden

Jerika Coffman

Review of Netflix’s ‘Extraction II

Action film fans will appreciate movie

By George Gust

There are rare movies that change the conversation around a particular genre, and years ago the breakout success of “John Wick” ushered in a new age of Hollywood action filmmaking.

Some filmmakers would take the wrong lessons from the success of Wick-opting to include a mysterious history and underground criminal/assassin society. However, with “Extraction”- Netflix’s budding action star vehicle franchise for Chris Hemsworthhas leaned further into the brutal stunt driven action and the sequel “Extraction II” has turned up the action again in the closest copy of the successful “John Wick” formula to date.

After barely surviving his grievous wounds from his mission in Khaka, Bangladesh. Tyler Rake (Hemsworth) is back, and his team is ready to take on their next mission: rescue a ruthless Georgian gangster’s family from the prison where they are being held.

“Extraction II” is a pure action movie, and it knows it. The filmmakers are not trying to produce anything other than a brutal and exciting action film. Video game aesthetic has been used as a pejorative for bad

CGI or unrealistic action. However, in ‘Extraction II” there is a long uncut sequence of action that is as immersive an experience that you may find in the best kinds of violent video games. With sweeping camera movements that track in and out of the action and clear views of the action “Extraction II” creates a propulsive story through beats of action instead of dialogue. And the brutal beauty of this movie is that there are several action moments that are so visceral and effective that you’ll remember them long after you’ve logged off Netflix for the night.

Answers on Page 19

In terms of performances, the physicality of the cast is all top notch, and their action hero delivery of the script fits the tone of this movie. With Hemsworth at the helm of most of the screentime, he has a certain action movie star charm that is able to impress during action scenes and pull off the hyper masculine “I’m the best and I know it” dialogue without coming off as cheesy or trying too hard.

Overall, “Extraction II” is another satisfying entry into the new “John Wick” style stunt-driven action film with a true action movie star in Hemsworth. With a focused approach to action over world building, “Extraction II” accomplished exactly what it set out to do- providing compelling action sequences shot with clarity and a story that feels cathartic in a way the best action films can.

“Extraction II” is rated R for strong/bloody violence throughout and language.

4 out of 5 stars

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

Art exhibit opens at OKC museum

A once-in-a-lifetime exhibition opened last weekend, at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA). True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism features more than 50 sculptures by French artist Auguste Rodin, known to many as the father of modern sculpture. This exhibition, organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and presented by Inasmuch Foundation and George Records, also showcases the work of Rodin’s Impressionist contemporaries, including Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, and Paul Cézanne, among its 100 works of art.

OKCMOA is the first venue to present the exhibition in its entirety and will be the final stop for the exhibition in the United States before it travels internationally.

Tickets for True Nature are available online at okcmoa.com, in person, or by calling the Museum’s main number (405) 2363100. Timed ticketing will run throughout the length of the exhibition and allows visitors a 15-minute window for arrival time with slots available throughout regular Museum hours.

Crossword Puzzle

Answers on Page 19

Chris Hemsworth returns in “Extraction II” reprising his role as the tough as nails tactical specialist Tyler Rake in another seemingly impossible extraction adventure.

FAI to feature work of artist Tanner Muse in July

Edmond Fine Arts Institute is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated July Gallery Opening, featuring the talented, up-and-coming artist, Tanner Muse, on Thursday, July 6th, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Edmond Fine Arts Institute located at 27 E. Edwards St. Edmond, OK.

Tanner Muse, an emerging local artist known for his innovative artwork, has captured the attention of art enthusiasts with his unique contemporary western style and artistic vision. With an impressive portfolio focusing on acrylic work, Muse has garnered recognition within the local art community, setting him apart as an artist to watch.

"We are delighted to host Tanner Muse's gallery opening and provide a space for local artists to share their creative endeavors," said Shannon Price, the Executive Director of the Edmond Fine Arts Institute. The gallery opening on July 6th promises to be an unforgettable evening, celebrating the fusion of artistic expression and community engagement. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the artist, explore Muse's captivating artwork up close, and immerse themselves in a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and inspiration.

This event is open to the public, and art enthusiasts, collectors, and members of the community are encouraged to attend the gallery opening. The Edmond Fine Arts Institute and Tanner Muse look forward to welcoming everyone to this exciting event.

The Edmond Fine Arts Institute Gallery is open daily for public viewing Monday – Thursday or by appointment. Monthly gallery exhibits are a program of the Edmond Fine Arts Institute, with support from presenting sponsor, BancFirst. FAI is Edmond’s nonprofit community arts organization providing year-round visual and performing art classes for children and adults and the Art in Schools Program for 3rd and 4thgrade students in Edmond Public Schools. For more information, visit EdmondFineArts.com or call 405-3404481.

RedBud Award Winners

Pictured left to right: Stacie and Doug Peterson (Edmond City Council) Derek Lee and Allison Snider (Edmond History Museum), Jennifer Seaton, Jodi Fetrow, Miranda Petre, Terry Lanham (Visit Edmond) Amy Stephens (Edmond History Museum) and Marian Free (Cycle 66) The award stemmed from a Visitor’s Guide put together by Visit Edmond last year. Please see Page 17 for more photos and an article on the awards.

Photo of artist with work. Provided by artist, Tanner Muse.

2021

By Jamie Prisco -Rudolph, M.A.,-LPC-C Edmond Family Counseling

Have you ever stared out of the car window on a long drive and thought to yourself: “Who am I?” If you have, you are certainly not alone! Establishing a true sense of self is an important process to achieve personal goals and feel secure in personal values and ideals.

Individuals with a strong sense of self typically feel more confident when making decisions, whether that be deciding what to cook for dinner or deciding to move across the country to a new state. A strong sense of self aids in identifying core beliefs and values and people who feel sure of their beliefs are often more assertive when explaining them to others. Individuals who lack a sense of self-worth may often feel disengaged or uncertain about making decisions or struggle identifying their beliefs and values. Lacking a sense of self may lead to feelings of confusion, misalignment, and unhappiness. With some insight and introspection, finding your true sense of self is possible.

To begin identifying a true sense of self, ask some clarifying questions.

• On a scale of 1-10, how sure of myself do I feel?

• What are my strengths and abilities?

• What are my values? Do I behave in a way that demonstrates these values?

• What brings me happiness?

• Do my choices and decisions reflect the person I want to be?

Once these questions are answered, take some time to consider where a true sense of identity comes from.

There are several factors that contribute to finding a true sense of self. These factors include individuation, family of origin, and societal expectations. The process of developing a sense of self begins in childhood. Erik Erikson, an ego psychologist, created a theory that highlighted stages of psychosocial development from infancy and mature adulthood. The 5th stage in his theory, called Identity versus Role Confusion, highlighted a child’s desire to be more independent and unique. If a child is provided the opportunity to learn and express their own thoughts and desires, this will help them feel more individualized from their peers, increase their level of self-confidence, and help them to feel more independent. Early childhood development also plays a role in defining a sense of self. As we grow up, we are taught values and beliefs by parents, caregivers, and family members. These initial beliefs that we are taught help build ideas about the world around us. Throughout development, we decide if these

values still make sense or if we need to identify new values to replace old ones. Societal standards and influences also play a role in how we see ourselves. Social media, gender roles, and cultural traditions can impact feelings of identity and must be considered as a true sense of self is formed.

Developing a strong sense of self takes time and a dedicated effort to self-reflect and evaluate. Some tools to help develop a strong sense of self include:

• Determine interests, likes/dislikes, and hobbies: Reflecting on personal likes, dislikes, and hobbies can help to find common themes and preferences in areas of interest. Defining these interests can assist in trying new hobbies or finding social groups with similar interests and ideas.

• Identify personal values, goals, and beliefs: One place to start when defining personal values is to consider what values were taught in childhood. If these values still apply, determine how to make them an integral part of setting and completing personal goals. If not, discover new values to replace old ones. Completing a value assessment is one way to discover personal values and beliefs.

• Try new things and embrace alone time: Occasionally, societal pressure and influences can make it difficult to understand individual ideas and values. Use alone time to complete self-exploration by journaling or note taking. Reflect on personal strengths and abilities and how past experiences have shaped your personality.

• Practice decision making skills: Being able to trust your instincts and make decisions is another way of defining your sense of self. Start with making small choices to make your day more successful to build up confidence in decision-making skills. Take time to reflect on these choices and the results of them. Over time, you may begin to feel more confident in being assertive and voicing your choices with others.

Feeling like you are unsure of yourself can make it difficult to set goals and feel successful. Spending some time to reflect on who you are and where you want to be will help develop a strong sense of self and confidence in personal strengths and abilities.

Jamie Prisco-Rudolph, M.A., LPC-C is a staff therapist and Intern Coordinator at Edmond Family Counseling. We may be reached at 405-341-3554 to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed professional counselors.

Oklahoma History Center Workship will show how to create a simple ring

On Tuesday, June 27, from noon to 5 p.m., the Oklahoma History Center will host a workshop to teach participants how to create a simple sterling silver ring while learning basic jewelry-making skills.

The class is for ages 16 and up, and the cost is $65 for Oklahoma Historical Society members and $80 for nonmembers. The class cost includes all materials for each participant to make and take home their silver band ring. Registration is required, and the registration deadline is June 20. The class is limited to 12 participants.

The Oklahoma History Center is located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Please call 405-522-0765 or visit www.okhistory.org/histo-

rycenter for admission costs and group rates.

The Oklahoma History Center is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society and is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, National Archives and is an accredited member of the American Alliance of Museums. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.

Visit Edmond honored for volunteer & tourism efforts

Visit Edmond, a City of Edmond department responsible for promoting Edmond as a tourism destination, was honored with special awards ;ast week.

The University of Central Oklahoma Endeavor Games inducted Visit Edmond into the Robbie Robertson Hall of Fame for 24 years of service and support. The Endeavor Games concluded on June 11 with more than 250 athletes with physical disabilities from around the world competing in various sporting events on campus and throughout the Edmond community. It is the nation’s largest multi-sport, multi-disability event and contributes $1.6 million annually in economic impact for Edmond as athletes and supporters shop and dine in Edmond during their stay.

The Oklahoma Travel Industry Association hon-

ored Visit Edmond with three awards on June 13. The annual RedBud Awards Gala recognizes Oklahoma tourism attractions and destination marketing organizations for their outstanding efforts to serve and promote Oklahoma’s tourism industry. Visit Edmond received a RedBud Award for Best Publication for the 2022 Visitor Guide, an award of merit for Cycle 66 website and an award of merit for Edmond History Museum’s temporary exhibit featuring Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road which ran from May to December of 2022. Visit Edmond promotes events like Cycle 66 that attracts cyclists and their supporters to ride along historic Route 66 and attractions like the Edmond History Museum that entertains visitors year-round with creative events and exhibits. Stacie Peterson, Edmond City Council Member and Tourism Advisory Board Member, attended

UCO College of Business notes new sales center membership

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Business professional sales program received full membership with the University Sales Center Alliance (USCA), an organization of sales centers connecting universities with sales resources, education and competitions to advance the sales profession. Central is one of two institutions in the state to receive full membership status with USCA.

USCA is comprised of nearly 40 full member and 30 associate member institutions across U.S. and Europe, offering students a combination of specialized sales courses, mentors, internships and other forms of realworld sales experience to help students learn, develop and sharpen their sales skills.

“USCA provides continuing education for faculty and research opportu-

nities to ensure we remain relevant in the field of research and practice,” said Grant Aguirre-Y-Luker, J.D., Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Marketing at Central.

”This membership gives UCO students access to corporations and opportunities for internships and full-time jobs. With regard to competence, it is making us standardize the sales competition and develop best practices. These competitions are enormously beneficial for our students.”

To gain full membership, member schools must achieve good standing as an associate member for at least 12 months. Additional criteria include, establishing standalone sales centers, operating a video-recording facility for skill development and maintaining a maximum number of students in entry level and advanced sales classes.

Lankford wants Oklahomans to pay less at the gas pump

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) to introduce the Pay Less at the Pump Act to lower energy prices for American families by repealing the $10.5 billion “Superfund Tax” on American energy production.

“As I predicted, the so-called ‘Inflation Reduction Act’ was just a front for progressives to slip through Congress many of their Green New Deal priorities, including a ‘Superfund Tax’ on oil and gas,” said Lankford. “Families, farmers, and many forms of agriculture, industry, and business in my state rely on oil and gas for everyday work. Biden’s own experts admit that by 2050—as far out as they’re willing to predict—we will need at least as much traditional energy as we use now. So the fantasy that he can tax his way into a renewable-only economy is only hurting Americans. We should work on lowering prices for Oklahoma families, not punishing

them with more taxes.”

“Hardworking families in Wyoming are paying the price for the Democrats’ war on American energy. Across the country, Americans are feeling the pain every time they go to fill up their gas tanks,” said Barrasso. “Reckless and out-of-touch taxes like this make already skyrocketing energy costs even higher, at a time when Americans can least afford it. We must repeal this tax and put forward proposals that unleash American energy and lower costs for Wyoming families.”

Cosponsors of this legislation include Senators John Thune (R-SD), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Lee (R-UT), Tim Scott (R-SC), and John Hoeven (R-ND).

The bill repeals the “Superfund Tax” on crude oil and imported petroleum products that was reinstated in the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spend bill.

the RedBud Award ceremony and said, “It was exciting to accompany Visit Edmond on stage three times and celebrate their tireless work making Edmond a fun place to visit.”

Edmond AMBUCS awarded Terry Lanham, Visit Edmond’s Group Sales Manager, with a Lifetime Achievement Award on June 9. AMBUCS is a national charitable service organization dedicated to inspiring mobility and independence. Terry has volunteered for the Edmond Chapter for more than 20 years through fundraising, leadership and monthly education efforts working tirelessly with selfless civic involvement.

These volunteer and tourism awards demonstrate Visit Edmond’s compassion for the community and dedication to showcasing Edmond to visitors.

Terry Lanham AMBUCS Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation with Wayne Pettigrew, AMBUCS President

Endeavor Games Hall of Fame Award Pictured from left, are, Visit Edmond Staff Miranda Petre, Terry Lanham, Jennifer Seaton and Jodi Fetrow.

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

MELINDA INFANTE

CELEBRITY SIGHTING — Cohen (3) and Campbell (6) Smith meet Batman at Touch-a-Truck Saturday. Relat4ed photos, Page 3

OSU approves fiscal year budget

The OSU/A&M Board of Regents has approved a $1.7 billion operating budget for the Oklahoma State University System for fiscal year 2024.

The budget, which the board approved Friday during its regular meeting held on the OSU-Oklahoma City campus, includes a significant funding increase from the state. General university state appropriations for FY 2024 are just over $221 million. That's up $26.5 million over the previous year — an increase of 13.76% for the state's largest university system.

OSU’s FY 2024 budget will see tuition and mandatory fees remain flat for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate and graduate students at the Stillwater and Tulsa campuses for the second straight year.

As part of OSU President Kayse Shrum's vision to enhance employment opportunities and growth, a faculty and staff merit-based raise program will be implemented starting July 1, following similar merit-based raise programs implemented in 2021 and 2022.

“This year's budget aligns with our mission to meet the needs of students by providing a highquality and affordable experience,” said Jarold Callahan, OSU/A&M Board of Regents chair. “We recognize the importance of faculty and staff as the foundation of our success. The budget reflects our commitment to operational efficiency and responsible stewardship.”

Led by an enrollment of 24,692 students at its

Stillwater and Tulsa campuses — representing a 4% increase over the previous year's enrollment — enrollment across the OSU System is over 33,000 students. The student body includes representation from all 50 states; Washington, D.C.; Puerto Rico; and 113 countries. In the fall, OSU reported its largest freshman class in history — 4,668 first-time freshmen enrolled — and early indications forecast a large incoming freshman class for the upcoming academic year. In the fall, OSU unveiled a comprehensive strategy to become the nation’s preeminent landgrant institution. The plan includes specific tar-

gets for increasing student access, affordability, retention and enrollment, all while promoting an efficient OSU System with a focus on addressing society’s most pressing challenges.

“Oklahoma State is on a positive trajectory with the systemwide strategy that will increase student enrollment, help address the state's workforce challenges, expand research capabilities and improve access for students," Dr. Shrum said. "A key part of making these things possible is our commitment to financial stewardship as reflected in the budget accepted by the OSU/A&M Board of Regents.