Edmond Life and Leisure - September 19, 2024

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.

Mitchell Hall & UCO get ready for musical

Another look at upcoming Edmond bond issue. See page 4

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Partly

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Partly

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Partly

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Musical Theatre division will present the Tony Award-winning musical “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” at 7:30 p.m., Sept. 26-28, and 2 p.m., Sept. 29, in Mitchell Hall Theatre located on Central’s campus.

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Musical Theatre division presents the Tony Award-winning musical “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” at 7:30 p.m., Sept. 26-28, and 2 p.m., Sept. 29, in Mitchell Hall Theatre located on Central’s campus.

Set in Edwardian England, “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” follows the charming yet mischievous Monty Navarro, who discovers he is ninth in line to inherit the D’Ysquith family fortune and earldom. Determined to claim his title, Navarro embarks on a darkly comedic journey to eliminate the eight heirs ahead of him—all while balancing romantic entanglements, deception and, of course, murder. With one actor portraying each of the eccentric D’Ysquith family members, the production promises to deliver side-splitting humor and a whirlwind of delightful musical numbers.

“Audiences will be captivated by the show’s witty lyrics, clever plot twists and the remarkable talent of our

student performers,” said Justin Larman, the show’s director and UCO musical theatre alumnus.

“It’s a fast-paced, hilarious ride through one man’s quest for wealth and power, with moments that will have you laughing long after the curtain falls.”

Winner of four Tony Awards, including Best Musical, “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” is known for its masterful blend of comedy and suspense. Rated PG, the production includes comedic portrayals of murder and may contain some mature themes.

Tickets range from $15-$25 and are free for students with a valid UCO ID. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit go.uco.edu/CFAD-tickets or call 405-974-3375.

For a complete list of UCO College of Fine Arts and Design events and performances, visit cfad.uco.edu. To see events happening this weekend, please turn to Page 6.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pictured, Harrison Shaw, a sophomore musical theatre major from Edmond, Oklahoma.

From the Publisher

Forward or backward

no such thing as neutral

My headline was one of my dad’s favorite philosophies in business and life. I am not sure if he learned that in the U.S. Marines or if he developed that from his family, but he was a take charge, over the top and advance kind of guy. I believe the point in sharing that with folks was to teach them you must be making progress, or you would fall behind. The laws of kinetic energy would agree with my dad in that you cannot and should not sit still because the world will change for you. In other words, not deciding is making a decision.

That is the kind of decision we Edmond voters will be faced with this November. Let me be clear, I am not speaking in this column for or against the general obligation bonds that will be on Edmond voter’s November ballot this year. We have an exceptional story explaining the issues on Page 4 of this week’s newspaper. We also had several pages of information in August that was information only about the bond issues including how the money would be spent. We will have more information as we get closer to the election.

Despite all the information we put out, you will read and hear uneducated folks belly ache that they, “did not get any information on the subject” they will say and include a good dose of conspiracy theory on how the City Council were trying to sneak one by them and “were just lining their pockets” with the money. That last one really ticks me off. If you are having a discussion with someone about these bonds and they claim that council members are making money off the deal end the discussion.

My biggest concern over these bond issues is not whether voters will vote for or against them but that they will decide one way or the other based on bad information. Please, get your information from some other sources than the internet folks. As much as I love my friends at Around the Corner, it is a hot bed for spreading junk from the internet. Most of it is way off or totally wrong.

Whichever way you decide, understand your source of information. Do not be lazy about it and take the word of a neighbor who read something on the internet or one of those God-awful social media websites about neighborhoods. They are a plague on our society folks and do a wonderful job of spreading lies and misinformation. As the original story gets spread it gets more

outlandish and falser in each thread. Take the test. Read the original post on a thread then follow it down as more people weigh in on the subject. It gradually gets more incorrect and usually ends up with no relation to the original post.

Forgive the lecture on where you get your information and go back to my country smart dad. One issue folks should consider when trying to decide moves past the extra cost. The truth is it is a new tax on your property. That can be a hard no for some, and I can certainly see their point. I have never been one for bigger government on the national level but when dealing with local issues there can be a long-term cost for not making street or capital improvements in a community or delaying projects waiting on the funds to catch up. Streets continue to wear out all the time. Following my dad’s idea they do not stay neutral waiting for needed repairs to be made. That is just a fact here in Oklahoma. Our weather wears them out faster then communities can gather the funds from sales tax to catch up or even keep them maintained. Our options to keep from getting further behind and doing nothing is to cut the current budget to make up the deficit in street repair or find another funding source and you and I would be that source. That is the decision you as a voter must make and I am not suggesting in this column what your choice should be but despite all the junk out there and conspiracy vibrato, that is the simple facts of the choice.

Lisa and I just returned from a week in Colorado to go flyfishing. I am incredibly blessed with a wife that loves the sport along with the outdoors and especially the mountains. To pass the time on the long drive we like to observe what is going on in the small communi-

out what’s

---- More about upcoming bond issue..............................................Page 4. --- Weekend

“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.

ties along the way. It gives a great perspective on how other places handle issues and how successful they have been at it. It takes us forever to do the drive because we stop, mainly at local coffee houses, talking to business owners and citizens of the town. We learn much from these visits and then get back in the car to talk about what we learn.

The overwhelming discovery on this trip was that once a community lets itself get behind on anything, it plays heck getting back up to speed and in fact seldom recovers much less get its mojo back. Despite so many efforts on the part of good people, lost glory seems to stay lost. Raton, New Mexico was a good example.

Raton, gateway to the land of enchantment, is what they call it. It is a city and the county seat of Colfax County in northeastern New Mexico. The city is located just south of Raton Pass. The city is also located about 6.5 miles south of the New Mexico–Colorado border and 85 miles west of Texas.

The modern glory days included a racetrack. Americans celebrated as Apollo 11 blasted off toward the moon on July 16, 1969, but people in Raton, New Mexico, were taking part in a historic event of their own. While millions watched daylong coverage of the lunar mission, 3,947 horse-race fans in the grandstands cheered during the first Land of Enchantment Derby at La Mesa Park.

“Television wasn’t even really that good,” says long-time Raton racehorse trainer Rex Coram. “When most of the world was getting ready for the moon landing, Raton was just getting ready for the Land of Enchantment stakes.”

In the nearly 50 years that La Mesa Park was open from 1946 to 1992, Raton’s preoccupation with racehorses was unquenchable. The town’s popula-

tion nearly doubled during the summer racing months, and business ramped up at hotels and restaurants. Jockeys, trainers, gamblers, horse owners, and fans came to make new friends, catch up with old ones, and participate in a timeless American sporting tradition – one that Raton put its own spin on.

1988 was the beginning of the end of La Mesa Park. The track faced closure that year, but 32 local business owners and community members came together to fund the park, according to a 1995 article by the Associated Press. Each entity put up roughly $25,000. Too little too late?

Behind closed doors, tense discussions about the future of the park were taking place. They came to a head on July 27, 1992.

“The Horsemen’s Association and the La Mesa Park board of directors could not come to a mutual agreement on what they wanted to do and how they wanted to continue,” city leader Bill Donati said. “So, with only a few days left in the racing season, they called me up and said, ‘Bill, you need to make an announcement: “Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your attendance. The rest of the races today are canceled, and they are canceled until further notice. Thank you very much.”’ It was over. The short story is the community not only was doing too little too late, but they would not agree on a plan to save the biggest economic driver in town. I love the current Raton, but it is just a sleepy town where travelers stop to spend the night on their way to ski or hike in Colorado. Nobody stays over to patronize local businesses.

Forward or backward folks, there is no neutral.

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

Ray Hibbard

Mitch Park ball fields will be renovated if the Nov. 5 bond issue passes.

Matt Gerding, middle, receives recognition.

Soccer coach singled out for honor

Matt Gerding’s dedication to shaping our community’s future leaders through instilling teamwork, resilience and communications skills has earned the Edmond Soccer Club a $2,000 donation as 2024’s Mercy-GoHealth Urgent Care Coach of the Year.

“Coaches like Matt Gerding have a profound impact on young athletes,” said Sarah Coy, Mercy-GoHealth regional president. “They serve as mentors and impart valuable life lessons and crucial skills that these kids will carry into adulthood. This award is intended to recognize the contributions of coaches like Matt and to help support our local leagues so young athletes continue to thrive and have this positive influence in their lives.”

Gerding is a volunteer coach with Edmond Soccer Club’s U11 and U14 girls’ teams. He loves hearing heartwarming stories from players and parents about how the soccer team helps kids grow, but there’s also a personal element.

“It’s the joy of reliving my youth by lacing up my cleats and having fun with the team,” he says. “You only get to be a kid once, but coaching is the next best thing.”

This spring, Mercy-GoHealth Urgent Care sought the community’s input through nominations for youth coaches doing inspiring work, and Gerding received the coach of the year award this month. The $2,000 donation goes to the Edmond Soccer Club’s general fund.

Mercy-GoHealth Urgent Care youth sports sponsorships and donations help kids with scholarships, player safety enhancements, field maintenance and equipment.

The President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition Science Board has set a national goal to give all young Americans the opportunity to play sports because of many short- and long-term benefits.

Voters face big bond issue Nov. 5

By Richard Mize The Oklahoman

Would increase property tax 14.3 percent

Will Edmond voters mind paying for a high quality of life this time?

The Nov. 5 election will tell, if more than 50% approve the city's issuance of general obligation bonds to raise $231 million for street repairs, park improvements and a new fire station. The city says it would raise property taxes 14.3%.

Voters' record over time is mixed. Edmond has approved such tax increases to improve city services 18 times since 1908, and defeated bond elections eight times, city records show.

The last successful municipal bond election here was 44 years ago, when Edmond was a city of 34,637. It was to raise $3.35 million ($12.2 million in 2024 dollars) to widen Kelly Avenue and Bryant Avenue to four lanes and install traffic signals at Ninth and 33rd streets on Bryant.

It passed by 61.3% and was considered as "just another statement from residents of Edmond that they don't mind paying for the quality of life they're used to," according to the main proponent, the Citizens for Good Roads & Streets Association, the Edmond Sun reported.

Now, Edmond is a suburb of 96,286, approaching three times as large. City government is scrutinized in ways not possible in 1980, thanks to Nextdoor, Facebook and other social media, as well as the city's own livestreaming of council meetings and posting of videos and information online.

The bill to residents for the $231 million bond is spelled out online: "If approved, property taxes would increase about 14.3%. Current property taxes for the median, assessed home value in Edmond ($307,000) would increase by about $1.34 per day, $40 per month, or $450 per year per."

City leaders, after soliciting advice from a citizen task force, are pushing for another successful election for what it has dubbed "Edmond on the GO," three separate questions, one for high-priority street improvements, one for parks and one for public safety. Improving streets, the top concern, would take 65% of the new tax receipts.

Proponents and opponents of

Edmond's upcoming bond election

"Edmond enjoys a quality of life that not only benefits residents, but also attracts people looking for a place to raise their family in a safe, inviting community or locate their business in a community that is strong and growing," Mayor Darrell Davis said. "To maintain that standard requires investment.

"The current funding source that we have for our city — relying significantly on sales tax dollars — is not meeting the needs of our growing infrastructure nor our growing qualityof-life needs."

While there apparently is no organized opposition, opponents have taken to social media.

Some have complained that specific projects are on the list, some that their personal preferences are not on the list, and some have promised to vote "no" no matter what, and some have voiced full support. Some people are confusing it with school bond elections, which are more common.

But one comment on Nextdoor seemed to sum up the views of lessthan-enthusiastic residents: "I am for the improvement to our community, but I am like most. Those taxes! Yikes!"

City leaders' position is clear from their campaign's play on words: "Edmond on the GO" — and "general obligation."

"We looked at the overall benefit to the city. This program would help

maintain and enhance the quality of life we enjoy in Edmond," Davis said. "It will help us meet our growing infrastructure needs. It will help with congestion that we see during certain times of the day.

"When you look at this list, most Edmond residents will find a project that will affect their life in a positive way."

Here are summaries of what $231 million will buy if voters approve.

Future Edmond street projects, if voters approve

The city plans 15 street projects for $151 million, 65% of the total program.

Street resurfacing throughout Edmond ($35 million)  Covell Road and Santa Fe Avenue intersection improvements ($20 million)

Widening of Covell Road from Interstate 35 through Air Depot Boulevard ($15.8 million)

Covell Road and Western Avenue intersection improvements ($12 million)

Danforth Road widening from Holly Hill Road to Thomas Drive ($9.2 million)

Second Street and Boulevard intersection improvements ($7.2 million)  Intelligent Transportation System Phase V ($7 million)

Coltrane Road widening north of Second Street ($4 million) 15th Street corridor between Broadway Avenue and Boulevard capacity improvements ($3 million) Kelly Avenue and Edmond Road capacity improvements ($3 million) 15th Street and Bryant Avenue capacity improvements ($3 million) Santa Fe Avenue and Edmond Road capacity improvements ($3 million)

North University Drive right-of-way retrofit, bike lane, pedestrian infra-

structure ($3 million)

Thatcher Street right-of-way retrofit, bike lane, and pedestrian infrastructure improvements ($1.2 million)

Second Street and Garland Godfrey — crossing safety improvements ($1 million)

Future Edmond parks projects, if voters approve

The city plans six projects at parks and recreational facilities, which would receive the second-largest portion of funding, 30% or $70 million. Mitch Park improvements: new softball and baseball fields and amenities, new playground equipment, Miracle League field improvements, and connectivity improvements such as pathways and sidewalks. ($25 million)

Service-Blake Soccer Complex full renovation Phase I ($10 million)

Unassigned park projects

New park at Post Road and Second Street ($8 million)

Veterans Memorial ($8 million)

Neighborhood park playground replacement for 13 parks: Kelly, Centennial, Pennick, Meadow Lake, Whispering Heights, Westborough, Brookhaven, Gossett, Johnson, Clegern, Fink, Chitwood and Hafer parks ($6 million)

Creek Bend Trail completion ($4 million)

Future public safety improvements in Edmond, if voters approve

One project is included in the safety category, 5% or $10 million.

A projected $9 million is allocated to replace and relocate aging Fire Station No, 3 at 1540 W Danforth Road near Kelly Avenue. The new fire station will be at the northwest corner of Kelly Avenue and Hawthorne Lane.

$1 million unassigned.

A child plays on playground equipment Sept. 10 at Mitch Park in Edmond. Bryan Terry/Oklahoman

Local Merit Scholars named

Over 1.3 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants.

The nationwide pool of Semifi nalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifi nalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

To become a Finalist, the Semifi nalist and a high school offi cial must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the Semifi nalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.

A Semifi nalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school offi cial, write an essay, and earn SAT® or ACT® scores that confi rm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

From over 16,000 Semifi nalists, more than 15,000 are expected to advance to the Finalist level, and in February they will be notifi ed of this designation. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of Finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

National Merit Scholarships

Three types of National Merit Scholarships will be off ered in the spring of 2025. Every Finalist will compete for one of 2,500 National Merit® $2500 Scholarships that will be awarded on a state-representational basis. About 770 corporatesponsored Merit Scholarship awards will be provided by approximately 130 corporations and business organizations for Finalists who meet their specifi ed criteria, such as children of the grantor’s employees or residents of communities where sponsor plants or offi ces are located. In addition, about 150 colleges and universities are expectedto fi nance some 3,600

college-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards for Finalists who will attend the sponsor institution.

National Merit Scholarship winners of 2025 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July. These scholarship recipients will join more than 382,000 other distinguished young people who have earned the Merit Scholar title.

EDMOND

DEER CREEK H. S. Afonien, Tyler Chandupatla, Nityant Leow, Jemay Lindley, Emri Ma, Edward

EDMOND MEMORIAL H. S.

Adler, Dylan Aisenberg, Jessica Bax, John Bax, Joseph Confer, Ethan Doering, Ethan Jarvis, Samuel McCormack, Kyler

Myers, Alexander

EDMOND NORTH H. S. Beth, Jonah Garikipati, Thansi Hudson, Andrew Johnson, Natalie Kim, Christopher Koloen, Preston Montgomery, Nathan Newby, Austin Phan, Sophie Priddy, Kayla Tan, Sherman Tran, Andy Turner, Christian Turvey, Noah Benjamin Vincent, Josie Zhou, Samuel

EDMOND SANTA FE H. S. Gehrs, Nathaniel F. Johnson, Sophie H. Kajiwara, Nicholas H. Logeman, Zachary A. Morrison, Matthew D. Newman, Timothy E. Su, Kevin H. Xie, Maxwell X. Xu, Jasmine H. HOMESCHOOL / ONLINE SCHOOL

Baker, Eleanor Brown, Douglas

OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Strohl, McKenzie J. OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Morris, Campbell O.

(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.)

Sept. 2

Shawn Kyle Croy, 31 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS.

Joshua James Tucker, 25 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Colin McKenzie Verhulst, 27 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Princess Jacklon Nicole Spencer, 22, homeless. Failure to appear.

Elaine Aouicha Evans, 27 of Del City. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.

Travis Ray Bain, 37 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.

Dustin James Larock, 38 homeless. Possess drug paraphernalia, two counts possess CDS, public intoxication and (misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property.

Donna Sue Downs, 59 of Stillwater. Shoplifting ‘ Zopon Edwin Williams, 36 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Michelle Louise Holland, 50 of Oklahoma City. Two felony warrants and failure to appear.

Christopher Dwayne Clanton, 59 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

Sept. 4

Eddie Spoummonte Carr, 31 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Emily Taylor Broussard, 23 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Charles Werrick McClellan, 36 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and (felony value) possess incomplete credit cards or tools to reproduce card.

Mark Anthony Linn, 39 homeless. (Possession of a stolen vehicle) unauthorized use of a motor vehicle or implement of husbandry. possess CDS and (felony value) possess incomplete credit cards or tools to reproduce card and a misdemeanor warrant.

Alexis Lynn Ruotsi, 25 homeless. Possess CDS and a misdemeanor warrant.

Jessica Emily Btrooks, 38 of Norman. (Misdemeanor value) use of forged/revoked/stolen credit card.

Sept. 5

Marlon DeShawn Galbreath Sr., 52 of Norman. Public intoxication.

Thomas Austin Cletcher, 30 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.

Casey George Ransom, 48 of Edmond. Possess CDS, trafficking in illegal drugs, proceeds derived from illegal drug activity, possess with intent to distribute CDS and possess drug paraphernalia.

Shane Brandenburg Leu, 53 of Oklahoma City. Felony DUI/APC.

Kelly Lynn Blackwell, 52 of Phoenix, Ariz. Public intoxication.

Mark Allen Scruggs, 62 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Sherrena Renee McPherson, 30 of Oklahoma City. Trafficking in illegal drugs and a felony warrant.

Sept. 6

Donald William Magee, 39 of Luther. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Deontre Maurion Freeman, 29 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Sept. 7

Garrett Austin Stites, 22 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Robert Joe Chronister,Jr. 34 of Edmond. Child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Donald Ray Vincent Jr., 60 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

John Robert Grogan, 18 of Guthrie. False representation to an officer and shoplifting.

Austin Jeffrey Beard, 19 of Edmond. False representation to an officer and shoplifting.

Donald Ray Chadwell II, 47 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Lisa Denise Bunday, 59 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Sept. 8

Saundra Gay Steinberg, 61 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Tramell Houston Washington, 39 of Shawnee. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Jim David Suncar, 33 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Jakaree Ashante Jones, 47 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Kristie Jean Meierhoff, 42 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Marcell Anthony Vickers, 36 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor first offense) domestic abuse assault in the presence of a child and domestic abuse assault (strangulation).

Miraj Hasit Trivedi, 26 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Sharon Renna Montgomery, 62 homeless. Nonassault resisting officer, trespassing after being warned, shoplifting and failure to appear.

Caci Renae Stewart, 35 of Edmond. Shoplifting. Antionne Ivon Croft, 41 of Edmond. A felony warrant, six misdemeanor warrants, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Weekend Calendar of Events Sept. 19-22

Weekend Calendar of Events Sept. 19-22

--- In the Gallery

--- Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered

--- Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market

--- Route 66 Balloon Festival 2024

--- Frenzy September Events

--- Family Fun Night

--- Heard on Hurd

--- UCO Jazz Lab

--- Cole Swindell in Concert

--- Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents: Hamlet

--- Oklahoma State Fair

--- Fright Fest & Kids Boo Fest

--- Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

--- Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm

--- Carpenter Square Theatre presents: Making Sweet Tea and Other Secrets

--- Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma Presents: Once on this Island

--- The Rocky Horror Picture Show

--- BOB: Dylan Meets Marley – A Gardens Tribute to Bob Dylan & Bob Marley

--- OKC Philharmonic presents: Opening Night with Midori

--- Cactus & Succulent Show & Sale

--- Little Red Heart 5K Run

--- Magnified: Macro Photography Exhibit

--- OKC Philharmonic presents: The Conductor’s Spellbook

--- India Food & Arts Festival

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Featuring Reian Williams; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com

Kingdom of David & 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

Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market

Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market

Extra Info: Sat, Apr 20 – Sat, Nov 2; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.com

Route 66 Balloon Festival 2024

Location: The Chicken Shack, Arcadia, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 20 – Sun, Sep 22; 7 a.m. –10 p.m.; Day pass: $20; Weekend pass: $40; Children: $5; oklahomaballooning.com

Frenzy September Events

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 20: Robert Allen @ 7:30 p.m.; Sat, Sep 21: Steve Brann @ 8:30 p.m.; Free; facebook.com

Family Fun Night

Location: KickingBird Golf

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21; 5 p.m.; Green Fees: $12; Carts: $10; Range: $4; edmondok.gov

Heard on Hurd

Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21; 6 – 10 p.m.; Free; mycitizens.bank

UCO Jazz Lab

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21: Garrett Jacobson Jazz Collective; 8 p.m.; $15; calendar.uco.edu

Cole Swindell in Concert

Loc.: Riverwind Casino – Showplace Theatre

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 20; 8 p.m.; riverwind.com

Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park presents: Hamlet

Location: Oklahoma Shakespeare

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 12 – Sun, Sep 29; Thu –Sun: 8 p.m.; okshakes.org

Oklahoma State Fair

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 12 – Sun, Sep 22; okstatefair.com

Fright Fest & Kids Boo Fest

Location: Frontier City

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 14 – Sun, Oct 27, open select days; sixflags.com

Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

Location: 720 S Henney Rd, Arcadia, OK

Extra Info: Wed, Sep 18 – Sun, Nov 3; Wed –Fri: 1 p.m. to dark; Sat: 10 a.m. – dark; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; parkhurstranch.com

Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm

Location: Orr Family Farm

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21 – Sat, Nov 9; orrfamilyfarm.com

Carpenter Square Theatre presents: Making Sweet Tea and Other Secrets

Location: Carpenter Square Theatre

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 13 – Sun, Sep 29; Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m. Sun: 2 p.m.; carpentersquare.com

Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma Presents: Once on the Island

Location: Wed, Sep 18 – Sun, Oct 6; Wed & Thu: 7:30 p.m.; Fri: 8 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; lyrictheatreokc.com

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Location: The Boom!, OKC

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 20 – Mon, Oct 28; ticketstorm.com

BOB: Dylan Meets Marley – A Gardens Tribute to Bob Dylan & Bob Marley

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 20; 8 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

OKC Philharmonic presents: Opening Night with Midori

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21; 8 p.m.; okcphil.org

Cactus & Succulent Show & Sale

Location: Will Rogers Gardens

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21 – Sun, Sep 22; Sat: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.; oklahomacactus.com

Little Red Heart 5K Run

Location: Stars and Stripes Park

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21; 9 a.m.; littleredheart5k.org

Magnified: Macro Photography

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 21 – Tue, Nov 12; myriadgardens.org

OKC Philharmonic presents: The Conductor’s Spellbook

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Sun, Sep 22; Showtime: 2 p.m.; Lobby activities: 1 p.m.; okcphil.org

Send items to infante318@cox.net

Edmond Schools explain flag policy

By Murray Evans

The Okahoman

Questions surrounding the display of the United States flag at Edmond Public Schools remained front and center earlier this montht at the local Board of Education meeting.

District Superintendent Angela Grunewald spent more than five minutes explaining the history of the district’s policy concerning the flag's display and emphasizing how the district tries to teach respect for the flag to students.

But some in the audience of about 75 people weren’t satisfied with the district’s stance, which has drawn widespread criticism for nearly three weeks. One man who identified himself as a military veteran chastised the five-person board for “banning” the flag.

Grunewald said the district has had no issues regarding flag display since 2017, when it developed its current policy, which doesn’t allow the display of the flag on student vehicles while on school property. But officials are re-examining the district’s stance on the subject because of the recent concerns, which included a letter from four Edmond state lawmakers and pressure from the state’s highest elected education official.

“In that process, we have had some really great meetings over the last couple of weeks,” she said, in reference to discussions with parents, students and groups such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. She said the American Legion provided the district copies of a document detailing proper U.S. flag etiquette.

Some in Edmond disagree with the district’s policy. Before the meeting, in a shopping center parking lot across the street from the Edmond district’s headquarters, about a dozen vehicles displayed U.S. flags, with some drivers passing by honking in approval. People standing by the vehicles held signs with messages such as “Stand Up For Common Sense,” “Not Accountable To We The People” and “Stand Up For Edmond.”

District administrators also took extra steps ahead of the meeting. A sign on the entry door to the headquarters building said, “No signs or flags may be displayed or brought into the meeting” and “Disruptive behavior is prohibited” while noting that violators could be removed from the meeting. At least three Edmond police officers roamed in the building lobby. One woman wearing a flag-themed hat asked a district official and

an officer if she could wear the hat to the meeting. The district official agreed to allow it.

As the meeting started, Grunewald explained the purpose of the meeting and asked for no disruptions. After those comments, four students from Edmond North’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps program presented the U.S. and Oklahoma flags as the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Complaint from Edmond North student led to current debate over flag display

Issues concerning flag display initially were raised in August by an Edmond North High School student, who told Oklahoma City television station KOCO that school officials would not allow him, or others, to display the U.S. flag on their vehicles while on school property.

The student also posted on social media, drawing the attention of state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters, who said in a video posted on X that, “No school in Oklahoma should tell students they can’t wave an American flag.”

On Aug. 29, Walters issued “guidelines on patriotic displays” to Oklahoma school districts, stating districts must develop a policy “that ensures the U.S. flag … can be flown and displayed on all school campuses without infringement,” must lead students in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at least once a week and must submit a report to the Oklahoma State Department of Education detailing their policies about flag display and the Pledge of Allegiance. It's questionable if Walters has the unilateral authority to force districts to comply with the guidelines.

The next day, Grunewald sent a letter to Edmond district parents, explaining the rationale used in developing the district’s current policy, but didn't pledge to change the district's stance regarding the display of flags.

She said at the meeting she wanted to expound on her message in the letter. She said the district’s current flag display policy was developed following a 2017 incident at a district football game. She said during the game, students displayed the flag inappropriately and after the game, flags were “strewn across the stadium.”

“Not only is that an educational moment that we needed to take, but we also needed to take into consideration, is that the proper place for the flag, because it wasn’t being treated with the respect that we know our flag deserves,”

Grunewald said.

She said around that same time, there also were some incidents regarding flags “that are controversial or flags that bring division” in district parking lots. The district, Grunewald said, brought together high school principals and student leaders to work on developing a solution.

“Flags have a proper place at our football games, and that’s not in the stands,” she said. “It is to be posted. It is to be well-lit. … That is where the flag should be honored and not being waved and thrown on the ground in the stands. It was also determined that flags should not be in our parking lot at that time, just because of the problems that we’d had and the safety with blocking views and the fights.”

She said flag etiquette is taught in fifth, eighth and 12th grades and highlighted district events scheduled in conjunction with Constitution Day on Sept. 17 and on Veterans’ Day on Nov. 11.

Only two citizens spoke at meeting concerning flag display

Only two people signed up to speak about the flag issue during the public comment portion of the meeting, which immediately followed Grunewald’s remarks.

The first, David Hutchison, identified himself as an Edmond North parent and U.S. Air Force veteran. He said the district was in the national news “because you’re banning a kid from having a flag on a truck.”

“The American flag is worth fighting for, even if we have to educate our children to treat it right and not take the easy way out and ban the flag and ban patriotism from our young people,” Hutchison said. “Who’s going to fight for this country when you guys keep teaching people not to be patriots? I once thought you guys were pretty patriotic, but I think this was a dumb move on your guys’ part.”

The second speaker, Jonathan Gragg, also identified himself as the parent of an Edmond student. He pleaded for compromise from people on both sides of the issue.

“I would like to encourage all of us to strive to be anti-inflammatory, in both our actions and our rhetoric,” Gragg said. “In other words, to be – as our children recite daily In our public schools, ‘one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.’”

September & recognition for Healthy Aging month

September is Healthy Aging Month. This raises awareness on the physical and mental health of older adults and serves as a reminder that as we age, our minds and body change. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to help deal with age related changes and to help prevent common health problems in older adults.

A proactive approach to aging can be taken by adopting healthy habits/behaviors, managing existing health conditions, and staying connected to your community. Here are some tips to help older adults stay active and independent as they age:

1.Eat & Drink Healthy- As you age, dietary needs may change. A healthy eatingplan includes foods low in cholesterol & fat, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, leanmeats, and low-fat dairy products.

2.Move More, Sit Less- Staying

active can help prevent and manage chronicdiseases and reduce the risks of falls.

3.Get Regular Checkups- Regular checkups can help doctors catch chronic disease.

4.Be Aware of Changes in Brain Health- Everyone’s brain changes as they age, butdementia is not a normal part of aging. Engaging in social/intellectual stimulatingactivities and getting enough sleep are some healthy behaviors to consider doing.

Areawide Aging Agency’s LongTerm Care Ombudsman Program advocates for the needs of residents in LTC facilities serving Canadian, Cleveland, Logan, and Oklahoma Counties. You may contact (put in your name) at (405)-942-8500 and ask to speak with an Ombudsman, visit our website at areawideaging.org or find us on Facebook.

Scam alert issued

Consumers can never let their guard down when it comes to identity theft. Personal information is much more accessible in an increasingly digital world. Consequently, instances of identity theft and consumer fraud continue to grow.

· The Identity Theft Research Center (ITRC) reported a record number of data compromises in the United States in 2021, amounting to a 68 percent increase over 2020.

The Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Sentinel Network received more than 5.7 million reports of fraud and identity theft in 2021.

In Canada, there are 12 victims of identity theft per every 100,000 residents and 52 victims of ID fraud.

Many North Americans have been victims of COVID-19-related fraud, including scams involving fake testing, vaccines and treatments, and charities.

The FTC says identity theft is when someone uses your personal or financial information without your consent. Commonly stolen data includes addresses, credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers, or medical insurance numbers.

Though thieves can gather information by intercepting it through digital channels or simply by stealing mail or going through trash, many times people inadvertently share personal information with scammers themselves. Here's a look at five common scams.

1. Phone scams

Phone scams may involve telemarketers trying to sell you something in exchange for personal information given over the phone, as well as people impersonating government agencies or credit card companies. "Please confirm account information" or "We'll need your financial information to process" are some of the phrases these scams utilize. Never give out personal information over the phone unless you've confirmed the individual you're speaking to is le-

gitimate.

2. Text links

The Pew Research Center says 81 percent of adult mobile phone users use text messages regularly. Scammers utilize text messages to try to gain information. The text includes a link to a site that will request personal information. Do not respond to such texts and avoid clicking on the links.

3. Phishing emails

Phishing emails look like they are coming from legitimate sources, but they often contain malware that can infiltrate computers and other devices to steal identity data. Phishing increased during the COVID-19 lockdowns as more people were working from home, according to the ITRC.

4. Medicare card verification

Older individuals long have been targets of criminals. Seniors are now being called, emailed or even visited in person by scammers claiming to represent Medicare. Perpetrators of this scam offer new services or new chipped Medicare cards in exchange for verification of Medicare identification numbers. Medicare numbers should be carefully guarded, and seniors should keep in mind it's highly unlikely Medicare representatives will contact them in this way.

5. Data breaches

It's not just a home computer or phone breach you need to worry about. According to ARAG Legal, security experts indicate many major companies are being breached. By the time it's discovered that data was stolen, your personal information, which usually includes credit card numbers, email addresses and home addresses, has been circulating for some time. While it's impossible for private citizens to prevent this type of data breach, a credit monitoring service can alert consumers if their information shows up where it seemingly doesn't belong.

Engagement, Wedding notices

Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

System not a pure democracy Lawmaker not pleased with DOC

By Steve Gust

It’s a bit annoying to me when I hear officials with the Democratic party claim they are the real guardians of democracy.

Just to refresh everyone’s knowledge, we live in a representative republic – not a democracy.

Steve Gust

And the people on the left know that. I’m not against the Democrat party. The country needs a strong two-party system. But I do get bothered when some Democrats champion democracy by saying they’re the only ones who will protect it.

As it is now, there are a lot of decisions made for us, which we have no say about at all. And if we put some of these issues on the ballot, the liberal position could never get a majority. With some of them they wouldn’t get over 20 or 30 percent support.

For instance, who was it who thought it was a good idea to have 87,000 more IRS agents? It wasn’t me. In fact I don’t think I’ve heard anyone, other than Joe Biden, think

it was a great idea to grow the IRS and the government.

But that’s just one issue. Who thought it was in America’s best interest to let in 10 to 20 million illegal aliens? They not only allowed them across the border, but decided to give them taxpayer money. While our homeless and homeless vets suffer, we bankroll illegal aliens. Yeah, let’s put that on the ballot sometime.

And we have a president who decided that our nation shouldn’t be energy independent. So he canceled the Keystone Pipeline. It would have provided tens of thousands of jobs and millions of barrels of oil. But the liberal elite said no and in the process doubled the price we use to pay for gasoline. Higher fuel prices have led to horrible inflation.

And when are we going to give the public a say in how some of our money is spent? We have given billions of dollars to Ukraine. Who in our government is monitoring how that is being spent? For the record, I don’t like Russia invading Ukraine. I wonder how much money is ever enough?

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

Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, today issued the following statements about the Department of Corrections.

"Once again, I am compelled to report the horrendous inhuman handling and human rights violations of the Department of Corrections. On August 24, 2024, I received a very credible report from the Dick Conner Correctional Center in Hominy. The reporter claimed that a mental health inmate was left in an outside cage for approximately four days with no bed or bathroom facilities. It is important to note temperatures were extreme during this period. Upon receiving the report, I emailed Director Harpe supplying dates, the inmate’s name, and his DOC number. I asked Director Harpe to confirm or deny this report. In typical fashion, the director refused to answer my request stating he must maintain confidentiality on an ongoing investigation. Therefore, I reached out to other sources to validate the accusations. I had multiple individuals confirm the report, and the report does appear to be true.

"On September 6, 2024, I received another credible report that the warden

at this facility has been suspended from his duties. I find it incredible that the incident was approximately a month old, but Director Harpe took no action until I uncovered or exposed the incident. Reports indicate the warden was suspended due to a gross mishandling of the inmate extraction from the recreational cell/cage. Based on reports, the inmate extraction consisted of the inmate being pepper sprayed with a canister that is normally used to clear crowds or in situations like a riot. It is unclear why this amount of pepper spray would be applied on a mental health inmate. The inmate also reportedly was shot with a pepper gun.  It is my understanding this is a gun that resembles an AKA but shoots pepper balls. Finally, the inmate was extracted with the use of a shield that delivers an electrical shock like a stun gun. The inmate was drenched with a larger canister of pepper spray, which should have been more than sufficient to achieve compliance. But reports are that this mental health inmate was subjected to being shot with pepper balls and then electrically shocked. I would not call that an inmate extraction, but I would say the department’s actions are equivalent to torture. I want to be clear, the Department of Corrections has not confirmed or acknowledged these incidents because Director Harpe deems himself   above legislative oversite and completely ignores any attempt to attain the truth. Removing the inmate would be considered a planned inmate extraction. Department policy requires selecting an extraction team and would require the extraction to be taped and narrated, therefore, the reports should be easy to confirm. The inmate and staff should be checked by medical to ensure no injuries occurred to prevent lawsuits. These records should be documented and reviewed.

"To complicate matters, I have received credible reports that Director Harpe is taking unnecessary trips approximately every other week. Reports indicate Oklahoma is paying his excessive salary of $275,000, plus paying for him to travel the nation with a small entourage to give speeches. I also am advised he may receive extra pay for being out of state . The Oklahoma Department of Corrections has some of the worst numbers in the United States and massive problems.

Recently, Governor Kevin Stitt issued the Oklahoma Phone-Free School Challenge, inviting students, teachers, and superintendents statewide to propose solutions for managing cell phone use in schools. The initiative addresses concerns over distractions, bullying, and learning difficulties associated with cell phone usage.

“Cell phones are useful tools, but far too often, they cause distractions in the classroom. I know we can’t solve a problem like this with a top-down, heavy-handed government mandate,” said Governor Stitt. “I know our students and teachers have the creative and innovative minds to solve this problem in their classroom, so I want to empower them to do just that. That’s why we’re launching the Oklahoma Phone-Free School Challenge.”

The challenge starts today, and participants have until Nov. 29 to submit their ideas, policies, and best practices to the Governor’s Office. These submissions will be reviewed for inclusion in an

Oklahoma Phone-Free Schools best practices report, which will be compiled by Secretary of Education Nellie Sanders and Chief Advisor of Health and Mental Health Ellen Buettner.

“Student attention is being challenged in ways we’ve never faced before,” Sanders said. “Students are enduring a mental health epidemic that can’t be ignored, and we have an opportunity to eliminate one of the driving culprits: cell phones. As we explore the idea of cell phone-free schools, we’ll put student mental health first, approach it with empathy, and take our classrooms back.”

"I applaud Governor Stitt for his proactive stance on cell phone use in Oklahoma schools,” said Buettner. “By launching the Oklahoma PhoneFree Schools Challenge, we are taking a critical step toward safeguarding students' mental health and enhancing their educational experiences. This effort will provide valuable insight into the impact of cell phones on academic performance and mental health.”

Letters to the Editor policy

to news@edmondpaper.com.

Our Oklahoma State Legislature became the newest member of a national network of conservative lawmakers on Tuesday, September 3rd, with the launch of the latest Freedom Caucus chapter. Senator Dana Prieto, a founding member of the newly formed Oklahoma Freedom Caucus, will share with us more about the mission and objectives of the caucus.

Additional members of Oklahoma’s caucus include Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, who will serve as chairman, Sen. Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, and Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland. Deevers will serve as the Senate vice chair and Olsen as the House vice chair.

The State Freedom Caucus Network is a conservative national organization with an official presence in 12 state legislatures. The network builds off of the House Freedom Caucus in Congress. The caucuses are known for creating model legislation, championing conservative causes, and promoting liberty-minded causes that garner publicity and attention.

The State Freedom Caucus Networks asserts that today, the federal government is larger and has more authority than ever before. The permanent administrative state, filled with unelected bureaucrats, has run roughshod over our state legislatures and consolidated power. The principles enshrined in the 10th Amendment have never been more critical:

“Those powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”

State Sen. Prieto on Freedom Caucus

Prieto

Celebrating the new

By Elaine Warner

There was an ocean of orange and a crowd of cowboy hats as fans of OSU, Pistol Pete and Harold Holden gathered on the corner of McElroy and Duck in Stillwater for the unveiling of the campus’ newest sculpture. Years in the planning and making, it was the completion of a nearly life-long love of sculptor Holden who was represented by his wife Edna Mae and friends as a posthumous period was placed on Holden’s dream.

Frank Eaton, more popularly known as Pistol Pete, had been Holden’s hero since the artist was a little boy. At age five, Holden rode his pony in a parade in Enid. As the little horse approached the judge’s stand, he reared up in classic cowboy style in front of the judges. Holden won five dollars and got to sit on the lap of the area’s most famous cowboy, Frank Eaton. He even got to hold Eaton’s pistol, which Holden said felt like a cannon.

Eaton got the nickname, Pistol Pete, from his prowess with a firearm – skills honed competing with soldiers at Fort Gibson. He served as a Deputy U.S. Marshal in Oklahoma Territory and later as a sheriff in the town of Perkins. A cowboy, blacksmith, and writer, he was a popular figure in the area – so popular that he became the mascot of Oklahoma State.

Harold Holden grew up around cowboys, cattle and horses but showed an early interest in art. His school books and tablets were filled with drawings depicting western themes. He spent his freshman year at Oklahoma State and then transferred to the Texas Academy of Art in Houston where he graduated with a degree in commercial art. In his twenties, he began to see a path in fine art but it wasn’t until returning from Viet Nam, where he served in the Navy, that he totally committed himself to pursuing a career painting what

Pete statue at OSU

he loved – the West. He also taught himself the art of sculpture.

Over the years, Holden received many accolades for his paintings, drawings and sculptures. His works have graced the covers of a number of prestigious Western magazines. He was a member of both the Texas Cowboy Artists Association and the National Western Artists Association and was elected into membership in the National Sculpture Society.

He was the recipient of a lifetime achievement award from the Oklahoma Sculpture Society and inducted as a lifetime member of the Mountain Oyster Club, an exclusive organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Western heritage and lifestyle.

In addition to many other honors Holden received an Oklahoma Governor’s Art Award and recognition as a Distinguished Alumni of Oklahoma State University. He is honored in the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and in the Hall of Great Westerners at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

His paintings are included in a number of museums. Four of his paintings are included in the Oklahoma State Capitol collection. During his lifetime he created twenty-five large sculptures, many here in Oklahoma. Visitors to Will Rogers Airport are greeted by a sculpture of Will Rogers on horseback; his “Headin’ to Market” is a prominent feature in the Stockyards District; “Monarch at Rest,“ a larger-than-life bison is situated near the entrance to the Oklahoma History Center. Holden’s very first public sculpture, “Boomer” was also the subject of a U.S. postage stamp. Even with all these accolades, Holden still had not fulfilled a long-held dream of a statue of “Pistol Pete” Eaton.

Approximately a decade ago, discussions with Oklahoma State got the ball rolling – slowly. The process was interrupted by two commissions for the university. Holden had already placed one sculpture on the campus – “We Will Remember” –

commemorating the loss of ten men (two basketball players, media and coaches) in a plane crash in 2001.

Two other commissions followed – statues of T. Boone Pickens and Barry Sanders.

Fund-raising for the project was also a long, drawn-out process – several hundred thousand dollars had to be raised. The Holdens reached out to their good friend Gwen Shaw, Edmond, who is a big Oklahoma State supporter to ask her to spearhead the fund-raising efforts.

Holden worked on the Eaton sculpture off and on for six or seven years. Health issues and other commissions intervened, but finally, in 2023, with the funding goal in sight, Holden was able to concentrate on his masterpiece.

As he came closer to completing the work, he realized that, due to his health he might not be able to finish it. Calling on sculptor friends, Paul Moore and John Rule, Holden laid out his plans for completion.

Harold Holden died on December 6, 2023. Moore and Rule, following Holden’s directions –and using his own tools – finished the work, readying it for casting.

Friday, September 6, was a beautiful, sunny day. In a break from the summer’s blistering heat, there was a pleasant breeze. Large canopies and a massive oak tree shaded the crowd gathered for the unveiling of Holden’s pièce de résistance.

Speakers included OSU President Kayse Shrum and Holden’s widow, Edna Mae Holden. The statue stood shrouded in a large, dark tarp. And then it was pulled off – leaving Holden’s tribute to his long-time hero sitting atop his horse and providing a fitting welcome to those entering the campus from the northeast.

It was a day of cheers – and some tears – as fans saw this magnificent sculpture atop an impressive stone plinth. And, I’m pretty sure, that somewhere, Holden and Eaton were shaking hands and giving it a “Go Pokes” sign.

Pistol

Holden’s 12-foot-tall sculpture of Pistol Pete stands atop a stone plinth. (Ownbey Photography)

Elaine

Edmond’s Gwen Shaw, who headed the fund-raising effort and Edna Mae Holden, widow of artist Harold Holden, were honored guests at the dedication of the sculpture of Frank “Pistol Pete” Eaton.

Harold Holden’s sculpture was finished by Paul Moore, Norman, and John Rule, Minco, with a help from Rule’s family – grandson Hunter, daughter-in-law Nicky, and son Marshal Rule.

Tropical musical now performed at Lyric

Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma presents eight-time Tony-nominated – and winner of the 2018 Tony Award for “Best Revival of a Musical” – ONCE ON THIS ISLAND.

This magical Caribbean-inspired tale of Ti Moune, a young peasant girl who rescues a wealthy boy, Daniel, from the other side of the island, with whom she falls in love despite the island’s societal norms. Guided by her loving mother and influenced by the pompous island gods who take bets on her success, Ti Moune sets out on a fearless journey to reunite with the man who has captured her heart.

This sweeping, universal tale is magically told through Caribbean rhythms and an enchanting musical score, featuring book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty. Come, and be transported to the island culture and vibes with this heartfelt folktale directed at Lyric by Monique Midgette.

See ONCE ON THIS ISLAND live at Lyric’s Plaza Theatre now through – October 6, located in the heart of OKC’s Plaza District at 1725 NW 16th St, 73106. With tickets starting at just $25.00, performances are at 7:30 PM W-TH and 8 PM Friday and Saturday, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 PM. Tickets are available at lyrictheatreokc.org or by calling (405) 525-9310 M-F 12 PM -5 PM.

Gas price down almost one dollar from a year ago

The national average for a gallon of gas kept up its torrid pace of decline, sinking six cents since last week to $3.24. The primary culprits behind the dip are low demand and falling oil costs. Meanwhile, the national average cost for public EV charging finally moved after a static few months, ticking a penny higher.

In Oklahoma, the gas average is $2.83 today, down 3 cents in the last week and 97 cents less than one year ago. Today’s national average for a gallon of gas of $3.23 is 21 cents less than a month ago and 59 cents less than a year ago.

With an estimated 1.2 million AAA members living in households with one or more electric vehicles, AAA tracks the average kilowatt-per-hour cost for all levels of public charging by state. In Oklahoma, the average for a kilowatt of electricity at an L2 commercial charging station is 38 cents. The national average is 35 cent

Lankford stresses reading importance

Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), and Jack Reed (D-RI) introduced a resolution designating September 2024 as “National Literacy Month” in an effort to raise awareness about the importance of literacy, to boost literacy support programs, and to encourage more Americans of all ages to read. The resolution passed the Senate unanimously this week.

“Reading and writing skills empower Oklahomans to thrive in the classroom, workforce, and community. Recognizing September as National Literacy Month celebrates continued education for learners at every level,” said Lankford.

“Reading unlocks opportunity and strengthening literacy for Americans of all ages will help us build a stronger society,” said Reed. “I’m proud to work with Senator Cassidy and our colleagues to introduce this important resolution that amplifies the need for more effective literacy instruction for students of all ages. We need to do a better job of reaching learners where they are and not letting them slip through the cracks.”

“Our students deserve better. Unless reading proficiency improves, we are at risk of losing an entire generation of productive, successful adults,” said Cassidy. “This resolution highlights this crucial issue and the importance of our work to improve child literacy.”

The measure is being cosponsored by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), John Cornyn (R-TX), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Roger Wicker (R-MS). Supporters of the resolution include the National Parents Union, Ed Trust, and Educators for Excellence.

Reading is a cornerstone for personal growth, economic opportunity, and a strong society. Reading proficiency by third grade is one of the most important predictors of whether a student will graduate high school and succeed in a career, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. According to a 2020 study by Gallup in partnership with the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, it is estimated that low levels of adult literacy could be costing America as much as $2.2 trillion a year. In recognition of National Literacy Month, throughout the month of September, schools, libraries, non-profits, and other organizations will host a variety of activities and events.

Kalen Robinson as Ti Moune, Bryce Williams as Daniel, Delanie Phillips- Brewer as Mama Euralie, Isaiah Bailey as Agwe and Nicole Kimani as Little Ti Moune.

UCO fall enrollment up 3.3 percent

The University of Central Oklahoma’s overall enrollment for the fall 2024 semester increased by 3.3%, with an official headcount of 12,554 students, compared to fall 2023. This marks Central’s first overall enrollment increase since 2013. The university also experienced gains in first-time freshmen, transfer, international and concurrent enrollment.

“The University of Central Oklahoma is committed to meeting students where they are. This is evident in our dedication to offering an accessible, affordable education that contributes to Oklahoma’s critical workforce needs,” said UCO President Todd G. Lamb.

“Our enrollment increases are a direct result of the intentional efforts of faculty and staff to create a personalized college experience that both recruits and retains students.”

Last fall, Central experienced record year-overyear gains in first-time freshmen enrollment, an increase of 25%. For the fall 2024 semester, the university improved upon last year’s record growth in first-time freshmen enrollment, as well as increases in transfer and international students.

Due to an exclusive partnership with Deer Creek Public Schools, concurrent student enrollment increased by 91.6%. Deer Creek juniors are eligible to receive a maximum of nine college credit hours,

while seniors can earn up to 18 college credit hours. UCO offers concurrent courses on the Deer Creek High School campus, eliminating the need for students to leave school grounds.

“Not only are we growing, we are building momentum by encouraging students to apply and be part of the UCO community by becoming a Broncho,” President Lamb said.

UCO is now accepting applications for admission for the 2025-26 academic year. Incoming freshmen and transfer students will automatically be awarded academic scholarships, pending eligibility, with the submission of a completed online application and all admissions-related documents

The University of Central Oklahoma realized the largest increase in enrollment since 2013. As of Tuesday, Sept. 3, UCO had a total of 12,554 students enrolled, an increase of 3.3% compared to fall 2023. Pictured is Old North on UCO’s campus.

Review of film ‘Rebel Ridge’

New Netflix release an ‘engaging thriller’

By George Gust

Now that school is back in full swing and we’ve kept the summer weather, but left the summer film selections, theaters are in a bit of a lull until awards season. Fear not movie goers because Netflix has your back with a deluge of movie offerings, most of which feel like long episodes of average TV, but some stand out as movies you may have seen in a physical theater. One of the most recent of these releases “Rebel Ridge” from writer/director Jeremy Saulnier (“Green Room”) falls into the latter category.

An ex-Marine (Aaron Pierre) grapples his way through a web of small-town corruption when an attempt to post bail for his cousin escalates into a violent standoff with the local police chief (Don Johnson).

When you see the trailer and premise for “Rebel Ridge” it sounds like the kind of crooked cop messes with the wrong guy revenge thriller that have been peppering theaters and red boxes across America with former wrestlers or over-the-hill action stars of yesterday. In many ways, “Rebel Ridge” subverts these ex-military thriller expectations with a realism

Answers on Page 19

that is both grounded and engaging. Throughout the film, the muted visual style reflects the mundanity of police and small-town municipal operation and the fight choreography feels more rugged and realistic than superhero martial arts.

And while the filmmaking and straightforward story feel cinematic, it’s the performance of Pierre that will be the lasting impression of this movie. Both the direction of Saulnier and performance of Pierre portray a confidence and control that give you a feeling that the finished movie we see is a fully fleshed out story and character.

Pierre’s on-screen presence is formidable both physically and with the emotional control he portrays. He was able to turn in an understated and calm performance devoid of any of the over-the-top one liners or action hero lines you might have expected in this kind of movie.

Overall, “Rebel Ridge” is a surprisingly engaging thriller that knows what kind of movie it wants to be and delivers an engaging story and near star-making performance from Pierre.

There are a lot of streaming options out there today, and when there’s a gem like “Rebel Ridge” it could easily be buried underneath the deluge of quick cash grabs from stars you recognize, but it is one of the better original thrillers of the year.

“Rebel Ridge” is rated TV-MA for violence and mild drug use.

3.7 out of 5 stars.

(Contact George Gust for comment about this film, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)

tions of the genre.

Peace Corps interviews are now online

Oral history interviews with 14 Peace Corps volunteers from Oklahoma are now available on the Oklahoma Historical Society Audio Archives YouTube page. President John F. Kennedy created the Peace Corps in 1961. Within five years, approximately 15,000 Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) had been assigned to 55 underdeveloped nations, where they served twoyear assignments and collaborated with host-country nationals on topics like education and community development. The Peace Corps suspended operations and brought home all PCVs due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, but the program rebounded. Today there are approximately 7,300 PCVs serving in 61 countries.

The idea to record the in-depth oral history interviews started when Richard Green, who served as a teacher and sanitation worker in the Philippines from 19671969, contacted Mallory Covington, archival collections manager in the Oklahoma Historical Society’s Research Division. Green wanted to collaborate to archive interviews.

Crossword Puzzle

Don Johnson and Aaron Pierre square off in the action thriller “Rebel Ridge” that subverts expecta-

UCO posts upset!

Central Oklahoma put up record-setting numbers in a 57-40 victory over No. 2 Central Missouri Saturday night at Chad Richison Stadium.

The Bronchos racked up 731 yards of total offense – one of a handful of school records on the night. Jett Huff led the way in the passing attack, going 42for-54 for 457 yards and three touchdowns. The completions another school record. His total yards passing is second-most in school history. Terrill Davis, who hauled 14 receptions for 203 yards and two touchdowns, set a single game record for catches. Jaylen Cottrell led the rushing attack, totaling 163 yards on 20 carries with three touchdowns.

All that for a game that was 0-0 at the end of the first quarter.

"I'm really proud of everyone tonight," UCO head football coach Adam Dorrel said. "That was a wild game, and everyone stayed in their role. Everyone gave everything had. The crowd was great too. We're really excited about it and we're going to celebrate, but we're going to start getting ready for the next one pretty quick too."

Saturday marked the second time in three seasons under Dorrel the Bronchos have beaten the No. 2 team in the country in Edmond. UCO also topped second-ranked Northwest Missouri in 2022.

The game was back-and-forth throughout the night. After the scoreless first, UCO struck first with Huff connecting with Ashton Schumann on a 36-yard touchdown pass. Central Missouri responded with a 14-play, 75-yard scoring drive and since UCO missed its PAT, UCM took a 7-6 lead.

The Bronchos took back the lead when Huff hit Davis on a 15-yard touchdown pass with 3:39 to play in the first half. Then UCM had quick response, scoring on a 69-yard touchdown pass to go up 14-13.

Central Oklahoma then followed with a 55-yard score – Huff to Davis – and it was 19-14, after UCO missed yet another PAT.

But the scoring wasn't done in the first half.

Central Missouri scored again with 44 seconds left, but they missed a PAT and left it 20-19. Then the Bronchos marched down the field and Nicky Quevedo made up for missed PATs with a 36-yard field goal as time expired to go up 22-20.

Both teams scored twice in the third quarter to keep the pace going. Cottrell darted for a 36-yard touchdown run to give UCO a 29-20 lead.

Then William Mason added a 3-yard touchdown run to give UCO a 36-20 lead with 8:31 to play in the third quarter. But UCM had its response, with touchdowns with 6:28 remaining and 2:58 left to cut it to 36-33.

In the fourth quarter, Mason struck first with a 4yard touchdown run, then UCM answered and it was 43-40 with 7:30 to play. Then Cottrell put his stamp on the game.

The junior running back scored a 34-yard touchdown with 4:34 to play, then sealed the deal with a 12-yard touchdown run with 1:45 to play as the Bronchos closed out the win.

Central Oklahoma's defense, while allowing 40 points, was brilliant against Central Missouri and the 2023 Harlon Hill Trophy award winner in quarterback Zack Zebrowski. The Bronchos sacked him six times for a loss of 27 yards.

Connor Johnson led the team with eight tackles and had one sack and three QB hurries. Zane Adams, who finished with six tackles, had 2.5 sacks. Noah West, with five tackles, had two sacks including a big one on fourth down to seal the deal. Hunter Largent was also in on a sack on the night. The Bronchos had seven QB hurries on the night.

OG&E  Helps After Hurricane hits

Terrill Davis celebrates one of his two touchdowns on the night.

Dylan Riley

Grateful to be alive Strep infection nearly fatal for man

Dylan Riley was playing disc golf with some friends when he tripped on a curb and punctured his right knee. He didn’t think much of it and went about his day. A couple days later, he started not feeling well. “I had a fever, body aches, sweating. I just thought I had the flu,” he remembers. “But then things got bad in a hurry. I lost mobility in my hands and legs. The only thing I could do was turn my head and holler for my roommates to help me and that’s when they called 911.

The Call

On Nov. 10, 2023, Trina White got the call no parent ever wants to get, that her son was being transported to the hospital in an ambulance. “I got to the emergency room, and they immediately took me back and said, ‘We don’t have time. Do you want to put him on life support or not?’ I remember being confused and saying, ‘I am so sorry, but I believe you have the wrong family.’” Trina knew her son had been ill, but even as a nurse herself, she didn’t think it was serious. “But then I walked around the corner and I saw my son laying there, not the son I knew of course, and my heart sank at that moment.”

The medical staff at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center recommended that Dylan be put on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, commonly abbreviated as ECMO.

It is a lifesaving therapy that provides support to patients whose heart and/or lungs are so severely diseased or damaged that they can no longer serve their function. It is often considered as a “last hope” for patients in critical condition. “They asked me about ECMO and there was no decision there,” Trina says. “I was like this is my son, my baby… Do what you have to do to save him.”

The Culprit

“Come to find out, I had been in contact with somebody who had strep throat and the bacteria from the streptococcal had gotten into my wound and into my bloodstream,” Dylan explains. “Throughout that week of me feeling like I had the flu, thinking I would just get past it, the bacteria invaded my blood system and shut down my heart, my lungs, my kidneys, causing me to be on life support for five

days.”

ECMO kept Dylan alive but without oxygenated blood naturally pumping throughout the body, some of his tissue started to die leading to the amputation of both of his legs and portions of both hands.

“Whatever they had to do. Whatever they could save, I was grateful for,” reflects Dylan. His mother agrees, “It’s a blessing that he’s even with us. Every doctor, every surgeon, all the miraculous people that we dealt with at Baptist they’ve all told us that he shouldn’t be here. He’s not supposed to be here but he is. He’s a miracle.”

The Cause

“It’s literally like in the movies when somebody saves someone and they say I owe you my life, well, this is the real-world version of that,” Dylan declares. He has made it his mission to educate others on the potential danger of the streptococcus bacteria. “It’s just not something you think about. I mean I never once would have put two and two together that I had something this severe.”

He does wonder from time to time, if all of this could have been avoided had he gone to the doctor sooner and been given an antibiotic.

But he doesn’t let himself dwell on that. Instead, he chooses to share his story in hopes of saving at least one life. “I’m going to make the most of it. This isn’t the end, but the beginning of a brand-new story.” He continues, “People may look at me a little bit differently, but I’m still me. I believe I’m even a better version of myself.”

INTEGRIS Health was the first in Oklahoma to establish a specialized life support program solely devoted to adult patients facing imminent death.

The system has a 24-hour ECMO hotline: 844-436-ECMO (3266). ECMO physicians are available 24/7/365 for consultation with other hospitals and doctors throughout the state. The team is also equipped with a transport vehicle and ECMO machines that can be mobilized to any hospital, regardless of affiliation, to work with other critical care doctors throughout the region. With this lifesaving technology, the INTEGRIS Health ECMO team is providing greater access to care for patients even in the most remote locations.

ESA members are informed on the wildlife in Hawaii

Ruth Foote presented Napali Coast Wildlife in Hawaii as her educational at Gamma Zeta’s September meeting.

The Nepali Coast is a first priority to Hawaii because it is 15 miles of gorgeous land and inspired Pulitzer Prize-winning poet W.S. Merwin to write a novel entitled The Folding Cliffs because the land looked like “an accordion folded fan made of green velvet.” The wildlife in Kauai is abundant, but several species are endangered. The Hawaiian Hoary bat, the Hawaiian Nene or goose, and the Hawaiian monk seal are worthy of attention. Unlike many species, the three mentioned are endemic to the Hawaiian Islands.

Did you know 1) the Hawaiian Hoary Bat is one of the few bats that can be heard by humans and most often births twins. 2) The Hawaiian Nene, a very rare goose, has a “moo” very like a cow’s albeit softer and gentler. Its neck feathers are very beautiful and distinctive and their feet are less webbed than other varieties of goose. 3) The Hawaiian monk seal, classified as endangered since 1976, is earless and can hold it breath for up to 20 minutes and dive more than 1800 feet underwater.

Should you travel to the Kauai Napali Coast, be mindful of keeping its great beauty and endemic species protected for generations to come.

The Nepali Coast is a first priority to Hawaii because itinspired Pulitzer Prize-winning poet W.S. Merwin to write a novel entitled The Folding

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

Chamber welcomes SEE THE TRAINER at its grand opening

See The Trainer – OKC recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand opening. Driven by customer service and upheld by reputation, SEE THE TRAINER is an orthopedic, sports medicine facility dedicated to keeping a diverse population functioning through a variety of bracing and support products.

SEE THE TRAINER offers a full line of in-stock bracing, home health and rehabilitation products. Whether your pain results from a chronic condition or an acute injury, they are dedicated to improving your quality of life. Their knowledgeable staff will do their best assisting you in selecting the appropriate product to best fit your needs.

With in-stock products for orthopedic, sports medicine, rehabilitation, home health and patient education… SEE THE TRAINER® has got you covered.

President/Owner Zane Brugenhemke is born and raised in Iowa but moved to Oklahoma 8 years ago and now considers Oklahoma his true home after meeting his wife and having kids in Edmond. Both Zane and the SEE THE TRAINER franchise can't wait to be known as the premier location for your medical product needs!

To learn more about See The Trainer – OKC, check out their website, https://seethetrainer.com/.

SEE THE TRAINER offers medical products.