In This Issue
FOUR SEASONS
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 2.
Holiday Happenings
2024
See pages 16 & 17
UCO wins Conference
Team marches into playoffs with a 10-1 record
Head Coach Adam Dorrel, MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy, UCO
UCO First Lady Monica Lamb, and UCO Vice President for Athletics Stan
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22
Sunny High 60° Low 40°
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
Mostly Sunny High 67° Low 49°
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24
Mostly Sunny High 70° Low 46°
prepare for the trophy presentation on stage following the game.
Central Oklahoma president Todd Lamb proudly proclaimed Saturday that UCO has ‘the best football team in Oklahoma.”
His remarks came shortly after the Bronchos beat Emporia State 55-38 Saturday at home. The win upped the team’s record to 10-1 and, more importantly earned the MIAA title for the Bronchos. It also qualified UCO for the playoffs. They will host a playoff game at Chad Richison Stadium this Saturday.
Central Oklahoma is returning to the NCAA Division II Football Championships for the first time since 2003 and the Bronchos learned their postseason position with the announcement of the 28-team bracket Sunday night.
UCO will be the No. 4 seed in Super Region III and will host a first-round playoff game against Ouachita Baptist Saturday, Nov. 23 at 1 p.m. The postseason contest at Chad Richison Stadium will be the first home playoff game in Edmond since the 1998 season.
Central Oklahoma posted a 10-1 record this year, with a 9-1 mark in the MIAA. The Bronchos won the league title for the first time since joining the league in 2012.
Ouachita Baptist, of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, also went 10-1 this season and won the Great American Conference title.
See Page 12 for an account of UCO’s win Saturday
PHOTOS BY UCO PHOTO SERVICES
Sophomore running back William Mason (22) runs the ball.
PHOTOS BY UCO PHOTO SERVICES
President Todd G. Lamb,
Wagnon
From the Publisher
Small Business Saturday is Nov. 30
Small Business Saturday is an annual event that takes place nationwide on the Saturday following Thanksgiving to encourage more holiday shopping at small businesses. Every year, we spread the Shop Small campaign wider than just Small Business Saturday because small businesses need our support yearround. The day has grown into an annual holiday shopping tradition.
Ray Hibbard
We are blessed in Edmond with many locally owned small businesses. Downtown Edmond is full of them and a great place to go for your Christmas shopping list. I like it because it is outside like the old Penn Square Mall days when you really felt that nip in the air while shopping. We have so many wonderful places to eat and the merchants have made sure there are plenty of activities to keep the entire family happy.
In 2010, in an effort to support local small businesses – many of whom were hurting during the economic recession – American Express launched Small Business Saturday to help drive more holiday shopping to small businesses. One year after the launch, local officials across the nation noticed and promoted the day. In 2011, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution in support of Small Business Saturday and by 2012 officials in all fifty states began to participate – and they have every year since.
Now more than ever, small businesses need our support. Please join SBA and organizations across the country as they celebrate small business contributions to their communities by shopping at a small business on November 30, Small Business Saturday. By designating a day in their honor, we are reminded that these businesses rely on our patronage during critical consumer shopping seasons as well as year-round. This year, support for small businesses is especially important as consumers are expected to spend $191 less at small businesses this holiday season, a 40% downturn from last year, as rising costs and continued inflationary pressures are causing a pullback on spending.
This could cause a strain on small businesses in Edmond who rely on holiday sales to drive a profit, as 61% say holiday revenue is a key factor in the success of their business, according to data from Quickbooks. When locally owned stores do not make a profit, they go away. I just cringe when I hear folks say, “What ever happened to…” or “I really miss…I just loved that store.” Now is the time to do something to help folks. Skip the big box stores and shop locally.
There are 33.2 million small businesses in the U.S., and they make up 99% of all businesses. For the past 20 years, small businesses have accounted for roughly 40% of the United States’ gross domestic output (GDP), which equates to trillions of dollars of economic activity.
While total consumer spending is expected to be down, one positive outlook for small businesses this season is that consumers remain loyal to supporting and shopping small. Nearly half of consumers (47%) said a key reason they choose to shop at a small business over a larger retailer is their desire to contribute to their communities and support overall entrepreneurial success.
When you support a local business, you are also supporting Edmond by way of paying sales tax.
Being a small business owner has always been a tough job, but the people who choose this path are doing it for the vision and passion of their products or services. It is their dream to support themselves and their families. The highs and lows that come with owning your own business can sometimes be exhausting. There is no time clock for a business owner, as there is always something that needs to be done. With those lows comes amazing heights, like getting to know your customers on a personal level and building relationships that can last a lifetime.
During the holidays, patronizing small is the biggest way you can support those business owners. Not only are you supporting a dream, but you are supporting those that give back the most to our city. Small businesses give more donations to schools and organizations than any large box
The sales tax money is used to support public schools, parks, roads, and sidewalks, as well as fund public service workers, like firefighters.
Small businesses are deeply engaged in their communities, so supporting a small business supports your local community. Think about it, folks. Who do local charities and organizations turn to in Edmond for help with fundraising and sponsorships? According to the MetLife and U.S. Chamber Small Business Index, nearly all small businesses owners agree that community engagement is important for their business—and are actively engaged in giving back in several ways—including hosting or sponsoring community events, donating to local charities, and forming partnerships with other local businesses.
The items found in small businesses are often made by hand in small batches, resulting in one-ofa-kind pieces. Local stores may also be able to offer customized products, hands-on service, and other personal touches that big box stores cannot. In fact, 52% of consumers say they purchase from small businesses to find unique gifts or offerings that cannot be found at big retailers.
Additionally, consumers looking to avoid the stressors of holiday shopping are favoring small businesses. According to QuickBooks, 1 in 3 consumers say a desire to avoid crowded or busy big retail stores during the holiday shopping rush motivates them to shop small.
Support the small businesses in your area and shop local – especially during Small Business Saturday on November 30th. Be sure to share your shop small experiences on social media using #ShopSmall and thank the businesses you visit for their contributions to our neighborhoods.
With the growth of the digital economy, more and more entrepreneurs are starting or moving their businesses online. This year, the majority of consumers plan to shop equally online and in-person for the holidays (compared with only 26% who say they plan to shop primarily in-person and 23% who say they plan to shop primarily online).
On this page is a piece submitted by Stephanie
“Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.
Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.
Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011.
Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable. For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.
store or online shopping site. In fact, .68 cents of every dollar spent in a small store stays in that community. And 99.9% of all businesses in the country are owned by small business owners, and many of those are minorities. Those small businesses generate 1.5 million jobs, resulting in 64% of all new jobs in the United States. Those are some great numbers and a bigger reason to Shop Small! With such impressive numbers, you can see why it is so American to shop small!
So, when you are making those Thanksgiving shopping plans with your family and friends, Come to Downtown Edmond on November 30th to help us celebrate our small businesses and their hard-working owners and employees.
Carel, owner of Silver Leaf Gems in downtown Edmond. She does do much for her community and is responsible for all the activities you see during Christmas and throughout the year in downtown Edmond. I thought it would be good to hear from an important locally owned business about Small business Saturday:
(Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Stephanie Carel Co-Owner Silver Leaf Gems
Stephanie Carel
Unraveling perfectionism
By Jamie Prisco- Rudolph Edmond Family Counseling
Perfectionism is a state of mind based on the need to meet and exceed personal and societal expectations. An individual focused on perfection may have high standards for themselves, be very organized and structured, and have personal ambitions and goals that they must achieve. While certain traits of perfectionism may help accomplish tasks and set personal expectations, people with perfectionistic tendencies may also experience anxiety, burn out, and low self-esteem. Psychologists distinguish between "adaptive" perfectionism—where high standards help individuals succeed—and "maladaptive" perfectionism, which is driven by anxiety, self-criticism, and a constant fear of failure.
For those experiencing maladaptive perfectionism, the impact on mental health is profound. Research has shown that individuals with high levels of perfectionistic tendencies are at greater risk for a variety of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Perfectionism can also lead to procrastination, as the fear of not doing something perfectly often results in avoidance or delays.
According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, the prevalence of perfectionism in the U.S. has been rising steadily over the past few decades, particularly among younger generations. The study found that individuals who scored higher on perfectionism scales were more likely to report higher levels of distress, burnout, and dissatisfaction with their lives.
There are several ways to transform maladaptive perfectionism into more adaptive perfectionism to help people set realistic goals and expectations for themselves and improve their overall mental health.
• Challenge Unrealistic Expectations: It’s important to examine the standards you’re setting for yourself. Are they realistic or are they making you feel stressed and overwhelmed? Reframing these expectations can help reduce unnecessary pressure. Ask yourself “If my friend told me about their personal expectations and they were unrealistic, how
would I help them think about it differently?” Practicing perspective taking can help shift your focus to a more neutral state of mind.
• Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome: Rather than fixating solely on results, appreciate the effort and progress you’re making. This shift in focus can help reduce feelings of inadequacy when things don’t go perfectly. By practicing mindfulness (a strategy that focuses on the “here and now”), you can see the progress you have made towards the goal instead of focusing on what you didn’t do in the past or what you still need to get done in the future.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Perfectionists are often their harshest critics. Learning to treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend can help ease the negative impact of perfectionism. Practice using positive self-talk strategies like positive affirmations to give yourself credit for your accomplishments, no matter how small they may feel.
• Seek Professional Help: In some cases, perfectionism may be tied to deeper psychological issues. Speaking with a therapist can provide valuable tools for managing perfectionistic tendencies and improving mental health.
• Listen to constructive criticism Perfectionists may view any type of criticism as an attack, causing them to feel defensive. A key factor in listening to criticism is determining if it is meant to be constructive or hurtful. Constructive criticism can give you important details on what went right versus what could use some improvement over time. Make note of the positives learned from the experience and view the changes to be made as stepping-stones to reach future goals and objectives.
• Practice “Chunking” Perfectionists tend to set unrealistic goals for themselves and may not think about the small steps that could take place in between to reach the end goal. For example, a goal related to fitness may sound something like “I am going to work out every day for an hour”. If you aren’t used to working out that often, it may be difficult
See EFC, Page 5
Jamie
to go from nothing to an intense workout schedule in the matter of a few days. By breaking down this goal into smaller pieces (a.k.a. chunking), it takes the daunting task and creates smaller steps to achieve. So, “working out every day for an hour” becomes a task list like: “get workout gear, research gyms near me, look at my daily schedule to determine when I can fit in a workout, workout for 15 minutes 3 days a week” and so on. Creating
smaller goals may help with motivation and will ensure the goal is realistic.
Perfectionism is not inherently bad—it can drive success and personal growth when balanced with self-compassion and realistic goals. However, when perfectionism becomes a source of chronic stress or dissatisfaction, it’s important to take steps toward healthier thinking. Ultimately, finding contentment doesn’t mean achieving flawlessness, but
City looking to fill a vacancy on Edmond Council
Due to the resignation of Councilmember Tom Robins, there is a vacancy in the position for Ward 1. City Council is accepting letters of interest and resumes from eligible persons who are interested in being selected to the fill the vacancy.
The next election for the Ward 1 Councilmember position will be held in the spring of 2027.
To be eligible for this appointment, the City Charter requires the following criteria be met:
Legal citizen of the United States.
A minimum of twenty-five (25) years of age.
A freeholder (landowner) and resident of at least one year prior to selection to serve.
A qualified voter of the City of Ed-
mond and of Ward 1.
If interested, eligible persons should submit a letter of interest and resume addressed to the Edmond City Council by 5 p.m. Dec. 2, 2024. Materials can be submitted via mail to P.O. Box 2970, Edmond, OK 73083; hand-delivered to the City Manager’s office at 24 East First Street; or emailed to Director of Management Services Casey Moore at Casey.Moore@EdmondOK.gov.
It is anticipated that the Edmond City Council will vote to fill the vacancy at their regularly scheduled meeting Dec. 9, 2024. To view a ward map of the City of Edmond, please visit: https://www.edmondok.gov/DocumentCenter/View/773 1/2024-NEW-WARD-MAP?bidId=.
learning to embrace the messy, imperfect aspects of life.
Jamie Prisco-Rudolph, MA, LPC-S is a Staff Therapist and Assistant Clinical Director at Edmond Family Counseling. Edmond Family Counseling is a non-profit organization.
We may be reached at 405-341-3554 to schedule an appointment with one of our professional counselors.
(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.)
Nov. 4
Jalen Michael Beadles, 21 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication. Shane Lee Curtis, 38 homeless. A misdemeanor warrant and a felony warrant.
Gregory Wayne Brewer III, 41 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia, driving while license canceled, suspended or revoked, trafficking in illegal drugs and possess CDS.
Nov. 5
Haleigh Lauren Murray, 29 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Nov. 6
Jeremy Robert Ramirez, 35 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
John Colin Fuller, 35 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Irene Baby Latdrik, 24 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Nov. 7
Renson Anton, 45 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Bonifacio X Quiroz Jr., 27 of Edmond. Possession of CDS, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer.
Daniel Chavez-Carapia, 40 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Princess Jacklon Nicole Spencer, 23 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.
Baio Zekimo Patton, 34 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege has been canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.
Chad Louis Maxwell, 56 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Christopher Adam Watkins, 47 of Wichita, Kan. Conspiracy.
Amilia Batten Watkins, 19 of Wichita, Kan (Felony) larceny of merchandise from retailer.
Sean Paul Sousa, 21 of Wichita, Kan. (Felony) larceny of merchandise from retailer.
Nov. 8
Christopher James Lewis, 45 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear and public intoxication.
Linhang Dong, 29 of Seminole. Proceeds derived from illegal drug activity, possess with intent to distribute CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.
Xiaofei Feny, 56 of Edmond. Engage/solicit prostitution.
Xiuzhen Chen, 68 of Edmond. Prostitution houses.
Nov. 9
Steven Lamon Sizemore, 57 of Edmond. Expired tag, possess drug paraphernalia, failure to maintain compulsory insurance and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.
Tyler Brandon Beard, 37 of Dallas, Texas. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Tyler Juryan Burris, 21 of Edmond. Failure to appear.
Jeremy Allen Leach, 46 of Vinita, Okla. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and shoplifting — petit larceny.
Eric Dale Gomez, 35 of Edmond. Obstruction of police officer and domestic abuse assault (strangulation)
Nigel Lynn Kirkwood, 49 of Edmond. Violation of protective order.
Nov. 10
Zander Crawford, 22 of Edmond. Expired tag, possess CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Matthew Martin Roukat, 25 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.
Eric Dale Gomez, 35 of Edmond. Obstruction of police officer and domestic abuse assault (strangulation)
Adam Chamberlin Wipf, 47 of Edmond, Failure to appear.
Princess Jacklon Nicole Spender, 23, homeless. Shoplifting – petit larceny.
Melinda Ann Perrott, 51 of Edmond., Felony warrant.
Darrius Lamont Vaughn, 35 of Oklahoma City. Elude police officer endanger others (felony), driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and possess drug paraphernalia.
Michael Jasper Williams, 23 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Weekend Calendar of Events Nov. 21-24
Weekend Calendar
Events Nov. 21-24
---- In the Gallery
---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
---- Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
---- Edmond Ice Rink
---- Devon Ice Rink
---- Downtown in December
---- Red Earth Treefest
---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights
---- Edmond’s Electric’s Luminance Merry Marketplace
---- Kaleidoscope Dance Company in Concert
---- Rachel Barton Pine ---- Karaoke Thursdays ---- Speakeasy
---- Holiday Extravaganza
---- The Polar Express ---- Barrel Racing Futurity World Championship
---- OKC Broadway presents: Beetlejuice the Musical ---- Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol
---- Stockyards City Tree Lighting ---- The Santa Market ---- Workshop: Putting Your Garden to Bed ---- Oklahoma Gun Show
---- Myriad & Bright Extra Information
In the Gallery
Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Extra Info: Gallery is open Mon –Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Free; Featuring Behnaz Sohrabian; edmondfinearts.com
Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market
Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 9 – Sat, Mar 22; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.com
Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered
Location: Armstrong Auditorium
Extra Info: Mon, Feb 26 – Fri, Jan 17 2025; Free; Mon – Thu: 10 a.m. –6 p.m.; Fri & Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; closed Saturdays; armstrongauditorium.org
Edmond Ice Rink
Location: Mitch Park
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 8 – Mon, Jan 20; edmondicerink.com
Devon Ice Rink
Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 8 – Sun, Feb 2; Mon – Wed: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 12 – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
Downtown in December
Location: Downtown OKC
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 14 – Tue, Feb 4; downtownindecember.com
Red Earth Treefest
Location: BancFirst Tower, OKC
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 15 – Tue, Dec 31; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; redearth.org
OKC Zoo Safari Lights
Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 9 – Wed, Jan 1; 5:30 – 11 p.m.; okczoo.org
Edmond Electric’s Luminance –An Enchanted Stroll
Location: Mitch Park
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 22 – Wed, Jan 1; edmondlights.com
Edmond Electric’s Luminance See Calendar, Page 7
Merry Marketplace
Location: Mitch Park
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 22; Free; 4 – 8 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Kaleidoscope Dance Company in Concert
Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Mitchell Hall Theater
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 21 – Sat, Nov 23; $10 ---- $20; 7:30 p.m.; calendar.uco.edu
Rachel Barton Pine
Location: Armstrong Auditorium
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 21; $35-$55; 7:30 p.m.; armstrongauditorium.org
Karaoke Thursdays
Location: The Frosted Mug, 1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite 107, Edmond, OK
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 21; Free; 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; frostedmugedmond.com
Speakeasy
Location: Ellis Island Coffee and Wine Lounge
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 22 – Sat, Nov 23; Free; 6 – 9 p.m.; ellisislandcoffee.com
Holiday Extravaganza
Location: Silver Leaf Gems
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 23; 9 a.m.---- 3 p.m.; silverleafgems.com
The Polar Express
Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum
Extra Info: Thu, Nov 14 – Fri, Dec 27; Showtimes vary on select departure dates; oklahomarailwaymuseum.org
Barrel Racing Futurity World
Championship
Location: Lazy E Arena
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 16 – Sun, Nov 23; 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.; bfaworld.com
OKC Broadway presents:
Beetlejuice the Musical Location: Civic Center Music Hall
Extra Info: Tue, Nov 19 – Sun, Nov 24; Tue – Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri: 8 p.m.; Sat: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun: 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; okcbroadway.com
Pollard Theatre presents:
A Territorial Christmas Carol
Location: Pollard Theatre, Guthrie,
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 22 – Sun, Dec 22; Thu – Fri: 8 p.m.; Sat: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; thepollard,org
Stockyards City Tree Lighting Location: Stockyards City, OKC
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 22; 6 – 7 p.m.; stockyardscity.org
The Santa Market
Location: OKC Fairgrounds Pavillion
Extra Info: Fri, Nov 22 – Sun, Nov 23; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; sites.google.com
Workshops at the Myriad Botanical Gardens
Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 23; Putting Your Garden to Bed: 2 – 3 p.m.; Harvesting & Saving Seeds: 10:30 a.m. –11:30 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
Oklahoma Gun Show
Location: OKC Fairgrounds
Extra Info: Sat, Nov 23 – Sun, Nov 24; Sat: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun: 10
Ward 3 seat sought
Edmond resident and leader Preston Watterson has officially announced his candidacy for Edmond City Council, Ward 3. With over 26 years in Edmond, Watterson and his wife, Sara, have raised their three children here, experiencing the growth and benefits of Edmond firsthand. Watterson brings extensive financial and project management skills to his campaign with more than 21 years of engineering and business experience, including oversight of major projects for the U.S. Air Force and Navy.
Watterson
“I am running because I love Edmond and want to see it thrive,” said Watterson. “I believe in reasonable, respectful leadership and family values, and I want to bring my 20+ years of engineering and business experience to the table. I am passionate about local government’s ability to serve people directly, especially through open-minded, community-focused leadership.”
Watterson’s community involvement is broad, reflecting his commitment to Edmond’s development and quality of life. He is a member of Leadership Edmond Class 39, serves on Edmond’s Capital Improvement Projects Advisory Board, and is a board member for the Project Management Institute (PMI) OKC Chapter. He is active as an HOA officer and is Board President of a local nonprofit organization. He also serves in various leadership roles in his church.
Watterson’s vision for Edmond centers on four pillars essential to the city’s future:
Continuing a Strong Foundation –Preserving Edmond’s strengths while enhancing its appeal for residents and businesses alike.
Financial Diligence – Ensuring disciplined and transparent fiscal policies for a more resilient government.
Culture of Collaboration – Fostering a community of neighbors working together and serving each other.
Responsible Growth – Balancing growth with infrastructure and community needs.
Recently elected as Chair of the Capital Improvement Projects Advisory Board, Preston is already working to ensure current and future funds are directed toward citizens’ priorities, including road improvements. He believes the City can address infrastructure needs in a balanced and responsible way.
“Edmond needs leaders like Preston Watterson who are civicminded, servant-hearted, and family-oriented,” said Mike Osburn, Oklahoma State Representative for District 81, which covers most of Edmond’s Ward 3. “I know he will bring these qualities to the City Council to help us build a better Edmond together.”
The Edmond City Council elections will take place on April 1, 2025. If three or more candidates file for the Ward 3 seat, a primary election is scheduled for February 11, 2025. Ward 3 covers Edmond’s southern limits, generally south of 15th Street and west of I-35.
For more information on Preston Watterson’s campaign and to support his vision for Edmond, visit www.PrestonForEdmond.com or contact Preston directly at prestonforedmond@gmail.com. For voter
Edmond Hall of Fame inductees
The Edmond Hall of Fame banquet, held every five years since 1981, celebrates individuals with exceptional civic and professional contributions. To date, 79 individuals have been inducted. The 2025 Hall of Fame banquet will take place on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at the Edmond Conference Center.
The 2025 inductees are Dwight Adams, Shannon Miller, Pete Reeser (deceased), Larry Stevens, and Bob Weiss.
Dr. Dwight Adams: The first Director of the
UCO Forensic Science Institute, Dr. Adams transformed it into the nation’s largest forensic science program. Before UCO, he spent 23 years with the FBI, pioneering DNA techniques and establishing the National DNA database, which has solved over 500,000 cases. Dr. Adams retired in 2023, the same year he was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
Shannon Miller: A two-time Olympian with seven medals, Shannon is the only female athlete inducted twice into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame. After a successful Olympic career, she became a motivational speaker and advocate for women’s health, especially after surviving ovarian cancer in 2011. Shannon remains a powerful voice for health awareness and resilience.
Pete Reeser: A cherished Edmond figure, Pete was known for his community dedication, often seen at Around the Corner restaurant, his real estate office, or
volunteering at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Over a 45-year career in real estate, he earned many accolades. His legacy lives on through his family and his contributions to Edmond.
Larry Stevens: Larry Stevens, who served as Edmond's City Manager from 2002 to 2022, was recently inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for City and Town Officials. With a career spanning over 40 years across Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, Larry’s leadership significantly shaped Edmond’s growth and development. Known for his dedication, he also contributed to numerous professional organizations.
Robert S. Weiss: A successful entrepreneur with 47 years in business, Bob has launched 32 ventures, including the enduring Othello’s Italian Restaurant. His leadership extends to nonprofit roles, guided by his motto, “Doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason.”
Nominations for this prestigious award were submitted by numerous individuals. "Edmond is fortunate to have citizens who go above and beyond for the community. Choosing inductees was a difficult task for our selection committee,” said Edmond Chamber President and CEO Sherry Jordan.
For banquet tickets and additional information, visit www.edmondchamber.com/eve nts or contact Kristen King at (405) 2162025. Reservations are required by Friday, January 17. Regent Bank is the Hall of Fame Sponsor for the 2025 Hall of Fame Banquet.
The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce, a 100-year-old, 1,000member organization, is dedicated to fostering a strong local economy and advocating for business interests. For more information, visit www.edmondchamber.c om or call 405-3412808.
A Medicare Minute with Michelle
Changes in Medicare coming in 2025
By Michelle Schaefer
Everyone on Medicare should have gotten a book called “Medicare and You 2025”. While it’s not fun to sit and read a book about Medicare, this really is an easy-to-read resource. You can download a copy at https://www.medicare.gov/medicar e-and-you.
pate having an expensive prescription, you can contact your Part D insurance company and ask to enroll in the Prescription Payment Plan. Then your cost will be spread throughout the remainder of the year (page 83).
(Michelle Schaefer is a local insurance agent specializing in helping people make decisions about their Medicare plans. She is an Edmond resident with 30 years of insurance experience AND a card carrying Medicare client. If you have Medicare questions you’d like an-
swered in a future column, contact Michelle at agency@michelleschaefer.com or 405-254-7727. For further information, go to www.medicare.gov, call 800MEDICARE, or contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHI P).
Your current plan should also have sent you an Annual Notice of Change document. Again, it’s tempting to disregard this, but it’s important to know how your plan will change. You can usually download your ANOC from your carrier portal, or call their customer service line and they can email one to you. Here are the highlights of changes coming in 2025, with a reference to the page in the Medicare and You 2025 book for more information.
Lowering your prescription drug costs
Remember the dreaded “donut hole” in your prescription plan? There are fewer levels in the drug plan and a much lower out of pocket threshold starting in 2025. The maximum deductible is $590 (some plans have lower or $0 deductibles), and your yearly out-ofpocket drug costs will now be capped at $2,000. Once your Part D drug costs are high enough to reach this cap, you don’t have to pay a copayment or coinsurance for Part D drugs for the rest of the calendar year (page 83).
Prescription Payment Plan
Starting in 2025, you’ll also have the option of spreading your drug costs across monthly payments throughout the year. If you antici-
Mental Health Care
Medicare covers expanded mental health care, like intensive outpatient program services in certain locations and services from marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors (page 46). During your yearly “Wellness” visit, your health care provider can also use a health risk assessment to better understand your social needs and refer you for appropriate services and support (page 55).
More resources for caregivers
Medicare covers additional caregiver support, like training that helps your caregiver better care for you (page 33) and relief when they’re caring for family members in hospice care (page 27). Also, some people living with dementia and their caregivers may be able to get more support though a new pilot program (page 35).
Changes to
telehealth coverage
One notable loss in coverage is telehealth services. In 2025, you must be in an office or medical facility located in a rural area for most telehealth services. However, you can still get certain telehealth services (like for mental and behavioral health) in your home no matter where you live (page 51).
You can make a change in Prescription Drug and Advantage plans until Dec, 7 effective Jan. 1. Consult your local agent or carrier to evaluate your options.
Michelle
Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side
Surviving the big meal
The holiday season goes into warp drive next week with the annual Thanksgiving feast.
It can be a lot of fun to see, and catch up, with relatives. For some, it can also be stressful.
Like I said a few weeks ago, Thanksgiving may not be the best time to have a spirited discussion on politics.
Having said that (again), I know there are still some people who just can’t wait to needle that one cousin or older brother on how the presidential election played out.
Don’t take the bait, folks. Be thankful to have a family that, for the most part, has been kind to you over the years.
Here’s some other advice. Go ahead and offer to help with one of the million chores it takes to put on a Thanksgiving meal.
And when you’re talking to someone, remember that they may not want to hear every little detail about your life. They have a life also. For a change, find out something about them.
Remember also, the Thanksgiving meal is a dress rehearsal for Christmas, Most likely you’ll have to get back together for another large dinner in December, as well as a gift exchange For now, smile and try to have fun – even if you can think of a few dozen places you’d rather be. When the holidays are over – send some thank-you notes and take a deep breath. You’ll only have another 10 or 11 months left before you do it all over again. All of this is contingent on the weather.
Speaking of weather, I read something fascinating in The Oklahoman Sunday. If you can believe it, the latest recorded snowfall in the metro was in mid-June of 1955. We actually got a tenth of an inch of snow then.
How do you go from suntan lotion and swimming pools to snow in one day?
If that happened these days every environmental activist would be pointing to the end of the world.
(Steve Gust, editor of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com.)
Gov. Stitt recommends returning
illegal aliens
Last week Governor Kevin Stitt announced Oklahoma Commissioner of Public Safety Tim Tipton will lead the charge to expel those serving time in Oklahoma correctional facilities who are in the country illegally.
“The Oklahoma taxpayer should not be left holding the bill for President Biden’s open border policies,” said Governor Stitt. “As law and order returns to the White House, Oklahoma will lead the charge with a comprehensive plan to deport those who have committed crimes in Oklahoma while in the country illegally.
"I am still committed to finding ways to pursue state-based workforce visas for those who want to pursue the American dream, but we will not tolerate criminal activity in our state. I’m thankful for Commissioner Tipton and his willingness to develop a plan for Oklahoma which can also serve as a model for other states.”
Commissioner Tipton will consult with state, county, and local law enforcement as well as the Department
of Corrections to create a strategic plan to address the presence of illegal immigrants who have committed crimes in our state.
Commissioner Tipton will deliver a proposed plan to the Governor no later than January 15th, 2025, and will consult with the Trump transition team and new director of Homeland Security to implement the plan upon President Trump’s inauguration.
“The safety of every Oklahoman is my top priority. We need an all-handson deck approach to ensure criminals who are here illegally don’t bring harm to Oklahomans,” said Commissioner Tipton. “Right now, Oklahoma taxpayers are paying to keep illegal immigrants incarcerated because the Biden administration has refused to enforce the law. This must end now. I look forward to working with law enforcement throughout the state as well as the Department of Corrections to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for crimes committed by illegal immigrants.”
Currently, the Department of Corrections houses 526 illegal immigrants in Oklahoma jails for criminal activity unrelated to their unlawful presence in the U.S. This costs the Oklahoma taxpayer roughly $36,000/day.
Stop the insanity
EDITOR
Letter to the Editor
Edmond’s recent bond issue failed. In the past, requests for public funds were usually approved. But, it has become more and more evident to most voters that the insanity has to stop.
There needs to be accountability by all government and community funded entities. Perhaps it is time for them to review the actual intention and mandate given to them. It would be wise to examine and determine if proposed programs and projects are truly beneficial, required, or wanted.
Governing bodies and community organizations should learn to function within their budgets as do the voters who are expected to fund them.
RESPECTFULLY,
W. GIUNTA
Discrimination against faith-nonprofits alleged
Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Gary Peters (D-MI) sent a letter to Federal Bureau of Prisons Director Colette Peters demanding answers on the Bureau’s discriminatory practices against faithbased nonprofits when approving and implementing programs mandated by the First Step Act (FSA).
“As you know, the FSA prioritized recidivism reduction programming within BOP and required that BOP work with ‘Nonprofit(s) and other private organizations, including faith-based, art, and community-based organizations that will deliver recidivism reduction programming on a paid or volunteer basis.’… According to the 2022 First Step Act Annual Report, BOP received eleven external applications to provide Evidence Based Recidivism Reduction (EBRR) and Productive Activities (PA),” wrote the Senators.
“To the best of our knowledge, the two that have been approved are PAs, meaning there are currently zero external faith-based EBRRs operating within BOP. These numbers are concerning, particularly at a time when individuals across the BOP system are on waitlists to participate in EBRR programming,” the Senators continued in the letter.
Read the letter below.
Dear Director Peters,
We write to request information from the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) regarding the implementation of the First Step Act (FSA). Specifically, we seek documents pertaining to the implementation of 18 U.S.C. § 3621(h)(5)(A).
As you know, the FSA prioritized recidivism reduction programming within BOP and required that BOP work with “Nonprofit(s) and other private organizations, including faith-based, art, and community-based organizations that will deliver recidivism reduction programming on a paid or volunteer basis.” The intent of this language was to create robust public-private partnerships between BOP and private organizations, including faithbased organizations, to provide recidivism reduction programming. Returning citizens need as many tools as possible to ensure a successful transition, enabling these individuals to thrive when reentering their communities. We call on the BOP to ensure a diverse range of community-based, private and nonprofit program options are available across BOP facilities, as directed in the FSA.
The FSA was signed into law over five years ago,
Letters to the Editor policy
but the implementation of recidivism reduction partnerships appears stagnant. According to the 2022 First Step Act Annual Report, BOP received eleven external applications to provide Evidence Based Recidivism Reduction (EBRR) and Productive Activities (PA). BOP approved four new programs, one as an EBRR and three as productive activities. Of the approved productive activities, one program was faith-based. The 2023 First Step Act Annual Report noted that the BOP has expanded its programming capacity by adding staff and creating new programs. The report does not list how many external applications the BOP received that year or how many were approved. Additionally, we learned through communication with BOP that since the FSA became law, BOP has received eight external faith-based applications. Of the eight external faith-based applications, five were denied, two were approved, while another remains pending review. To the best of our knowledge, the two that have been approved are PAs, meaning there are currently zero external faith-based EBRRs operating within BOP. These numbers are concerning, particularly at a time when individuals across the BOP system are on waitlists to participate in EBRR programming.
To gain better insight into the application and selection process for EBRRs and PAs under the FSA, we request the following information: All documents pertaining to the application and selection process for EBRRs and PAs under the FSA, including any documents that detail the factors used to weigh and select external applicants. Complete data summarizing the approval or rejection of all external applicants that have applied to be an EBRR or PA since the passage of the FSA. Such data shall be delineated by the category of the applicant- including faith-based, art, community-based, higher education, and other private entities.
Steve Gust
The charm & delightful tastes in Kentucky
By Elaine Warner
“If you can dream it, we can cheese it” is a motto you’ll hear around Winchester, Kentucky, which claims to be the birthplace of beer cheese. More accurately, it’s where Kentucky Beer Cheese became famous – celebrating the tasty treat with an annual Beer Cheese Festival. The cheesy concoction is now considered a Kentucky icon along side the Hot Brown openfaced sandwich created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville and mint juleps at the Kentucky Derby.
Howard’s beer cheese. It was definitely addictive.
I’m not sure how Winchester grabbed the title of Birthplace of Beer Cheese, but there’s no better place to get a taste. Winchester has established a Beer Cheese Trail with eight stops in town, six more in the county and the festival held the second Saturday in June.
There are two companies which can claim the original Joe Allman recipe: Howard’s Creek Authentic Beer Cheese and Allman’s Beer Cheese. Allman’s doesn’t ship out of state; Howard’s Creek will – but with a $25 minimum.
The history of Kentucky Beer Cheese goes back to the late 1930s and the Driftwood Inn, a restaurant on the Kentucky River near Boonesborough. Chef Joe Allman, who oversaw menus at a number of race tracks, was visiting his cousin Johnnie’s restaurant. Johnnie was looking for something to increase his beverage sales. Joe came up with a spicy, beery, cheese dip which they put on the table when customers sat down. Served in a small soufflé cup with saltines, radishes and celery, the dip did the trick. Drink sales went up and the dip quickly became a popular feature.
I just returned from a fast five days in Kentucky and Winchester was one of the highlights. We had lunch at Smokin’ Howard’s Sports Bar and Grill. We knew the ‘cue would be good; Paul Howard’s smoker is on the sidewalk in front of the café –and the hickory smoke promised food as good as the aroma.
What we didn’t expect was the beer cheese. We ordered two platters for our group of eight. Ritz Crackers, saltines, celery and carrots surrounded a good-sized container of
Otherwise, there are a number of recipes available online. According to Jack Jones, whose father worked for Johnnie Allman in the 1940s, the original ingredients are sharp Cheddar, flat (but not stale) beer, garlic powder and cayenne.
There are fifteen stops on the Winchester Beer Cheese Trail. I only hit one. If I ever get back there. I’m going to make a serious dent in that list.
Winchester is the seat of Clark County with a beautiful 1855, GreekRevival court- house in the center of the commercial district. Both the courthouse and the buildings surrounding it are on the National Register of Historic Places.
A few blocks away on South Main Street, the Bluegrass Heritage Museum offers a good look at regional history.
The impressive Richardson-Romanesque building, originally a private residence, was built in 1895. It was purchased in 1927 and turned into a hospital which operated until 1971. In 2000 it was donated to the community for a museum.
The collections are displayed on all three floors of the building. An elevator makes the entire museum accessible to those with mobility issues.
I loved a little corner on the first floor with a Kentucky Christmas tree. Myriad decorations – from sheet music for “My Old Kentucky Home” and bourbon labels to the state bird (a cardinal), a banner for the Kentucky University Wildcats and a paper turkey representing the farm which supplies the turkeys for the White House pardoning – provides fodder for photos. In another room, Civil War items from both the North and South are displayed. Kentucky was one of those states which de-
clared neutrality and did not secede from the Union. Families, however, were torn apart by their loyalties to one side or the other.
Among the most charming items are several quilts – hand-pieced and quilted and an Erector Set from the early 1900s. Other exhibits show farm and home items and highlight the importance of small tobacco farms in the area.
On the top floor, the operating
See Eaine, Page 13
The 10,000 square-foot building which houses the Bluegrass Heritage Museum was built in 1893 as a private residence
Elaine
UCO wins game & conference title! Sports
A dominating defensive performance in the first quarter of improbable proportion set the stage for Central Oklahoma's (Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association) MIAA Championship trophy celebration at Chad Richison Stadium Saturday afternoon.
UCO 55, Emp. State 38
Central Oklahoma held Emporia State to minus-11 yards of total offense in the first quarter. The Bronchos scored on the game's opening drive and added another to go up 14-0 after the first frame.
scored on an 8-yard rush to make it 14-0 in the first quarter. He also scampered for a 59-yard rush in the fourth to setup the Dunn touchdown pass.
Davis, who has set numerous records this season, was at it again on Saturday. He caught 15 passes for 203 yards and the one touchdown. The junior wide receiver is the first player in school history to have three 200-yard games in a single season. His 15 catches Saturday tied the school record, which he set last month.
Jaylen Cottrell and William Mason led a rushing attack that couldn't be stopped either.
The Bronchos continued the dominance on defense into the second quarter, and after a 57-yard touchdown pass from Dawson Herl to Terrill Davis made it 21-0, the defense forced a change at quarterback by Emporia, benching Gunnar Gundy after the second drive of the quarter. Central has four QB sacks to prompt the shift.
Emporia finally got on the board with the score later in the quarter and the game went to halftime 21-7.
In the second half, the scoring frenzy took pace.
UCO outscored Emporia 14-10 in the third quarter, and ESU had a 21-17 advantage in the final frame, but never got close to the No. 1 offense in the country.
Central Oklahoma put up 680 yards of total offense, setting a new school record for most yards in a single game.
Herl, who led UCO to come-from-behind wins in each of the last two weeks on the road, started on Senior Day and the Independence, Missouri native was on target. Herl threw for 368 yards on 30 of 48 passing with two touchdowns. His 47-yard strike to Davis highlighted the early rally. He added a 5-yard touchdown pass to Dominique Dunn in the fourth quarter.
Herl also ran for 74 yards and a touchdown. He
Cottrell ran for 112 yards on 19 carries and one touchdown. He had a huge 41-yard score in the third quarter. Mason, a sophomore, bullied his way to 86 yards on 12 carries and a career-performance of three rushing touchdowns.
A host of Bronchos led that defensive effort Saturday.Jack Puckett had 12 tackles, 2.5 behind the line, one sack, and two QB hurries. Connor Johnson had 10 tackles, two behind the line, and one sack. Dylan Buchheit finished with eight tackles, one behind the line, and also broke up two passes. His interception in the third quarter setup Cottrell's touchdown.
Wesley Hudson also had a QB sack. JK Moore also had an interception. UCO finished with eight tackles in the backfield for a total loss of 29 yards. The Bronchos had the two interceptions and broke up six passes while hurrying the two Emporia quarterbacks three times.
Central Oklahoma won the MIAA Championship for the first time since joining the league in 2012. A trophy presentation on field culminated a season of highlights for UCO. The Bronchos now move on to the playoffs for the first time since 2003, and UCO is set to host a playoff game for the first time since 1998.
room from the hospital era is a central feature. On the wall is pinned a bill for child delivery in 1947 -$141.35 for the operating room, medications, infant care and a ten-day hospital stay..
We had one day to explore Winchester – as usual, not enough to cover everything. We started the day with coffee at Creative Coffees Roastery –just the scent was enough to wake us up. Owner Brent Johnson buys only the finest fair trade beans grown on small farms or cooperatives. Creative Coffees include both single bean and blends. They roast almost every day. Call ahead to visit so you’ll get to see the roasting process.
Our next stop was for soda pop – Ale-8-One. Non-alcoholic, the name is a mash-up of a popular phrase from the early 20th century. “The late one” referred to the newest thing. The “ale” part may
From Page 11
be a reference to the inventor, George Lee Wainscott’s early experiments with flavored waters and ginger ale. Today the gingery drink comes in a variety of flavors.
The history of Ale-8-One and a look at the production process are interesting features of a tour at the bottling plant. A call before visiting is suggested.
We ended our day at Loma’s at the Opera House. The building, built in the late 1800s was originally a cultural center for the area. Later it became a sewing factory. Extensive renovations in 2003 turned it into a fine restaurant.
My dinner included shrimp and grits – but not just any grits – beer cheese grits. What a great way to cap off our visit to Winchester.
Antique quilts are displayed on a four-poster bed in the Bluegrass Heritage Museum.
Review of movie ‘Red One’
Film not bad despite the ‘silly’ factor
By George Gust
"Red One" is the latest tentpole fantasy/adventure film from director Jake Kasdan and star Dwayne Johnson, the team that brought us the latest "Jumanji" series of films. After Santa Claus, code name: Red One, (J.K. Simmons) is kidnapped, the North Pole's Head of Security (Johnson) must team up with the world's most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas.
In many ways "Red One" feels like a relic of the early to mid-2000s filmmaking. In the years following the unbelievable success of "Men in Black" film studios across the board wanted to find their own version of the 'secret agents in an unseen underworld saving the world without the population knowing about it' with films like "Hellboy" and the ultimate nadir of the genre "R.I.P.D." "Red One" follows this "Men in Black" formula except now with more Christmas, to mixed results. The advertising for "Red One" made the film look like a halfhearted/should-be-released-to streaming kind of disposable movie, but the fantasy character world building and competent action sequences save this
movie from being the disaster it looked like it could have been
In terms of performances, the overall quality of "Red One" could be described as adequate. Johnson has been playing the same 'strong man good guy' in action movies for the past 20 years that his turn as Callum Drift fails to distinguish itself from Johnson's off-screen persona. And playing against him, Evans is almost compelling as the naughty list lifer Jack O'Malley, he turns on the charm for the most part in a role that was undeniably written for fellow comic book fast talker Ryan Reynolds. Together, Evans and
Johnson are just entertaining enough to get us through the familiar beats of this kind of "Men in Black" carbon copy adventure.
Overall, "Red One" is an ambitious holiday movie that does a decent job at delivering the fantasy action it wants to with the Marvel style witty tone audiences are used to in this kind of blockbuster film. The main issues with "Red One" are the lacking visual style of the film, always playing it as safe as possible and the full two-hour running time that feels too long with several scenes outstaying their welcome. "Red One" is not as bad as the commercials made it out to be and is ultimately a decent yet silly holiday movie to take the family to if you're hard up to get out of the house this holiday season.
“Red One” is rated PG-13 for action, some violence, and language.
2.9 out of 5 stars
(Contact George Gust for comment about this film, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)
Francis Tuttle Technology Center’s Board of Education announced Dec. 2 through Dec. 4, 2024, as the candidate filing period for election to its zone 5 school board seat.
This board seat serves a five-year term and covers the central and eastern portion of Edmond School District. Statutorily qualified individuals interested in running for the Board of Education may file at the Oklahoma County Election Board between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Dec. 2 to Dec. 4,
The primary election will be held Feb. 11, 2025. The general election, if necessary, is set for April 6, 2025.
Francis Tuttle’s district includes portions of Oklahoma, Canadian, Logan and Kingfisher counties and serves students from Cashion, Crescent, Deer Creek, Edmond, Putnam City and Western Heights school districts.
The official announcement is as follows:
“The Board of Education of Francis Tuttle Technology Center School District No. 21 hereby announces that statutorily qualified individuals interested in running as a candidate for the zone five (5) seat on the Francis Tuttle Technology Center.
Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans team up to save Santa and Christmas in the modern holiday adventure film ‘Red One.’
State releases guidelines on use of artificial intelligence
Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready has issued Bulletin 2024-11, providing insurers with regulatory guidance on the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Aligned with the model adopted unanimously by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the bulletin outlines expectations on the ethical use of AI. It emphasizes the importance of fairness, accountability, transparency, and adherence to state laws to mitigate risks associated with AI-driven decision-making and to protect consumer interests.
“With new technologies comes the responsibility to ensure Oklahoma’s industry innovates while maintaining consumer protection,” said Commissioner Glen Mulready. “We hope to see artificial intelligence used to increase efficiencies and improve overall experiences.”
Key guidance from the bulletin includes: Reminds insurers that decisions supported by AI
systems must comply with all applicable insurance laws and regulations.
Encourages innovation while recognizing potential risks such as inaccuracies, unfair discrimination, data vulnerability, and lack of transparency.
Sets forth the Department's expectations regarding the kinds of information and documents about an insurer's AI systems that the Department would expect to be produced upon request.
Outlines specific guidelines for governance structures, accountability, monitoring, audit protocols, and training within the AIS Program.
“I encourage insurers licensed in the state to review the bulletin carefully to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations,” Mulready said. “The Oklahoma Insurance Department is available to answer questions about this bulletin and its implementation.”
The complete bulletin is found at oid.ok.gov/bulletins.
AAA predicts almost 80 million travelers
AAA projects 79.9 million travelers nationwide will head 50 miles or more from home over the Thanksgiving holiday travel period*. For the first time, AAA’s forecast includes the Tuesday before24-1313-TRV_ThanksgivingForecast_Total_Square.jpeg and the Monday after Thanksgiving Day to better capture the flow of holiday travelers.
This year’s projection of nearly 80 million travelers is an increase of 1.7 million people compared to last year and 2 million more than in 2019.
“Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday for travel,
and this year we’re expecting to set new records across the board, from driving to flying and cruising,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “Americans reconnect with family and friends over Thanksgiving, and travel is a big part of that. AAA continues to see travel demand soar post-pandemic with our members looking for new adventures and memorable vacations.”
By Car: AAA projects a record 71.7 million people will travel by car over Thanksgiving – that’s an additional 1.3 million travelers on the road compared to last year.
Francis Tuttle Tech Center teams up with Wichita State
This year, students in the Computer Science Academy at Francis Tuttle Technology Center are getting something new from their advanced STEM classes: college credit.
Starting this fall, Francis Tuttle computer science students can take Physics I and Physics II classes through concurrent enrollment at Wichita State University. Students who complete both classes will have ten credit hours at Wichita State that are transferable to almost any university.
“Their physics will transfer back to OU, OSU, or UCO as a science credit,” said Sherry Adrian, Instructional Support Director at Francis Tuttle. “They walk in the door already with 10 hours of credit. So, it either gets them out and graduated faster, or it lets them take on extra stuff.”
This semester, 37 computer science students are enrolled in Physics I and II at Francis Tuttle. Academy students at Francis Tuttle already take advanced science and math classes and learn about a specific subject they plan on pursuing in college.
However, to get college credit for those advanced classes, they had to pass an advanced placement (AP) test at the end of the school year. Even then, a high score may not result in college credit, depending on the institution.
In concurrent enrollment, students who pass the class automatically get college credit. That credit can be transferred to other universities since it is done through an accredited institution.
“I prefer concurrent, because it’s based on what you’re doing in class instead of just on one test,” Christian Watson, a Putnam City North student in CSA, said. “I think it more accurately measures what you’re doing and accomplishing.”
Francis Tuttle partnered with Wichita State after computer science Instructor
Heather Voss reached out last spring to Maria Vo, a recruiter for the university who serves on the academy’s advisory board. Voss said she wanted to find a way for her students to gain the college credit she knew they deserved without needing an AP test.
The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation will host its 20th annual estate planning seminar next month for attorneys, CPAs, certified financial planners and trust officers.
This year’s seminar will be held in person on the following dates:
Oklahoma City – Monday, Dec. 2. 1-5 p.m. at OMRF, with parking in the foundation’s garage immediately north of 820 N.E. 15th St. Tulsa – Wednesday, Dec. 3, 8 a.m. to noon, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Warren Place, 6110 S. Yale Ave.
Estate planning expert Robert Keebler will unpack the latest tax changes and those expected in a new presidential administration. He also will demystify final IRA rules and dive into structuring of spousal lifetime access trusts (SLATs).
Keebler is a partner with Keebler & Associates and is chairman of the AICPA Advanced Estate Planning Conference. He is the editor, author or co-author of several books on wealth transfer and taxation.
The seminar is presented by Argent Trust Oklahoma. Sponsors include BOK Financial Private Wealth, HoganTaylor, Trust Company Oklahoma, Rogers and Bell, Hartzog Conger Cason, and Simmons Bank Private Wealth.
Registration is $100. Attorneys and CFPs will receive four hours of continuing education credit. CPAs will receive a certificate of completion.
For more information or to register, visit www.omrf.org/estate or call 405-271-7400.
Holiday charm at Guthrie Depot
The Guthrie Depot is fast becoming a destination for unforgettable tea events that blend history, tradition, and community. This series of teas has offered guests a unique opportunity to step back in time, savor delicious treats, and learn about the rich heritage of The Guthrie Depot itself. With each gathering, guests are treated to an afternoon filled with charm, nostalgia, and the welcoming warmth of a classic tea party. The next event, the Victorian Holiday Tea on Dec. 7, 2024, from 2-4 pm, is set to bring the magic of the holidays into this historic venue. Featuring seasonal decor, delightful refreshments, and an engaging look at the Depot’s past, it’s sure to be a highlight of the season for all who attend.
A Glimpse into Oklahoma History One of the most captivating aspects of these tea events is the chance to learn about The Guthrie Depot’s storied history. Originally built in the early days of Oklahoma, the Depot was once a bustling hub, playing an essential role in the growth of the community. At the Victorian Holiday
Tea, guests will hear the story of the Depot’s beginnings and its place in local history. Adding to the experience, the Depot will feature an exclusive exhibit of relics uncovered during its recent restoration. These artifacts offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and a chance to connect with the generations who lived, worked, and traveled through the Depot over the years. Each piece tells a story and adds to the rich, authentic ambiance that defines The Guthrie Depot today.
Holiday Spirit and Victorian Elegance The Victorian Holiday Tea invites guests to immerse themselves fully in the festive spirit by dressing in Victorian attire or Sunday best, enhancing the timeless charm of the gathering. Imagine lace dresses, suits, and classic hats against the backdrop of twinkling holiday lights, garlands, and Victorian-inspired Christmas decorations that transform The Guthrie Depot into a beautiful winter scene. The Guthrie Depot, Guthrie, Oklahoma Tickets: Available at www.theguthriedepot.com
Hi and Lois
Shoe
Zits
Family Circus
Beetle Baily
Blondie
Hägar the Horrible
Holiday food drive starts
This holiday season, double the impact of your donations to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma with the Holiday Match. Through Jan. 15, all donations to the Regional Food Bank are matched, up to $350,000, thanks to APMEX and the Cresap Family Foundation. KOCO 5 returns this holiday season as the official television partner of the Holiday Match.
“Supporting our community is at the heart of what we do,” said Ken Lewis, CEO of APMEX. “For both our founder and myself, food security has personal significance, making our partnership with the Regional Food Bank especially meaningful. This season, we’re honored to work together in the fight against hunger, supporting our neighbors in need.”
Oklahoma ranks as one of the hungriest states in the nation. Throughout the past year, the Regional Food Bank continued to see an elevated need for food assistance. This need led to the second-highest distribution numbers in the nonprofit's 44-year history.
The Holiday Match is a unique opportunity for Oklahomans to send twice as many meals to our neighbors living with hunger," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. "We are so thankful to our partners at APMEX and the Cresap Family Foundation for sponsoring this match and we encourage Oklahomans to get into the spirit of giving and join us during the Holiday Match."
KOCO 5 will highlight the Holiday Match throughout the campaign with special programming detailing the impact of the Regional Food Bank’s programs.
The Regional Food Bank's network of communitybased partners operates in 53 counties across central and western Oklahoma. Partners like Connections Food & Resource Center in Weatherford serve hundreds of Oklahoma each month. The Regional Food
Bank recently spoke with Gina, a shopper at the Connections FRC. Three years ago, life threw Gina a curveball when she gained custody of her 7-year-old granddaughter. Soon after, Gina began to have trouble providing enough food for her family.
A friend told her she would qualify for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, a federal senior nutrition program, and recommended she visit Connections FRC.
In her monthly senior box, Gina receives milk and other shelf-stable food items. But she also gets to shop at Connections FRC, taking home fresh fruit and vegetables and meat. She is even able to pick up cereal, which her granddaughter loves.
"I guess I'm pretty lucky, because with the food we get here we're able to make it," Gina said. "But without this place, I don't know where we would be at."
