Edmond Life and Leisure - September 7, 2023

Edmond’s 95-year-young national bowling champ

By Patti Miller Ninety-five-year-old

Bill Ruhman got to experience this recently while participating in the National Senior Games held in Pittsburgh, Pa., on the Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Field. He was chosen to be the flag bearer for the Oklahoma Senior Games delegation leading 600 participants.

“I was tickled to death,” Ruhman said. “It was the highlight of my career, being selected for that.”

Ruhman was selected to go to the NSG after qualifying during the Oklahoma Senior Games in bowling. Qualifying is a process taking two-years and the National Senior Games is held every year in rotating locations. The 2025 National Senior Games will be held in Des Moines, Iowa.

In 1949 Ruhman picked up a bowling ball when he returned from the Navy and went to work at Tinker Air Force Base working with sheet metal for B52 aircrafts. He was 21 years old and managed the Bowling Center at Tinker for 25 years. That was the beginning of his bowling career and he has never quit.

Ruhman has 14 games with a perfect score of 300 to his game.

“I now bowl once a week on Tuesdays at Bowlero on Boulevard,” Ruhman said.

He bowls in a mixed league con-

sisting of 40 senior bowlers.

When he first started bowling, he used a 16-pound ball and now uses a 12-pound ball. Ruhman said the difference between the two is the speed which the balls roll.

“The heavier ball can roll 16 MPH while the lighter ball rolls 9 MPH,” Ruhman said.

He uses an ebonite ball. When he bought his first bowling ball he paid $19.95.

“Bowling balls can cost between $300 to $400 a ball now,” Ruhman added.

Some bowlers take six to eight balls to nationals but he takes one. He said if he was young, he might take that many but it costs $50 to ship a ball and then you are responsible for the balls once you get there.

In addition to his first place at NSG he is in the Oklahoma State Hall of Fame.

“Bowling is why I have lived to be 95,” Ruhman said. “Friendships I have made and following a healthy lifestyle has kept me young.”

While at Tinker he was assigned to Rammstein, Germany, where in 1985 he was given the Meritorious Service Award in the Bowling Center.

“I came back from Germany, stayed three years putting in 25

years at Tinker then I retired,” Ruhman said.

He joined the 600 qualifiers in Oklahoma representing everything from bowling to pickle ball to corn hole including 29 sports in total.

Of the events offered an individual can enter six events.

“I entered three for bowling and one for corn hole this last year,” Ruhman said. “My partner Mary Almond from Sapulpa is also 95 and we won gold this year.”

A 32nd Degree Mason, Ruhman is also a Shriner and still drives his 2008 yellow Pontiac Solace every year in Edmond’s LibertyFest Parade.

“I have been driving in the parade for 50 years, ever since I became a Shriner in 1975,” Ruhman said. Oklahoma Senior Games take place each year with the qualifying races for the next National Senior Games competition taking place in 2024.

A new event this year is Ballroom Dancing and will be held in Edmond at the University of Central Oklahoma Student Union Ballroom on Saturday, September 16 from 9 a.m. to 6 pm. It will be followed by a prom. For more information or to sign up go to: OKSeniorGames.com or call 405-821-1500

PHOTO BY PATTY MILLER

Bill Ruhman from Edmond took the Gold Medal at the National Senior Games in Pittsburgh, PA, for his age category, 90+. He says that Bowling, his main interest, has kept him active and healthy for living the good life.

UCO freshman enrollment up 26 percent

The University of Central Oklahoma welcomes the Class of 2027, its largest year-over-year increase in freshmen class enrollment in Central history — marking a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to academic excellence and transformative learning.

As of Monday, Aug. 28, Central's Class of 2027 is comprised of 1,926 first-time freshmen, which is 400 more students than the number of first-time freshmen in fall 2022, an increase of 26%.

UCO President Todd Lamb says the rise in incoming students can be attributed to several factors, including the dedicated recruitment efforts of faculty and staff and the un-

matched value of Central’s affordable, high-quality education as the leading metropolitan university in Oklahoma.

“It’s a great time to be a Broncho! You can feel the renewed energy on campus this semester. Our students know they’re getting a top-notch education from faculty and staff that genuinely care about their success and that they will graduate career ready with less debt,” Lamb said.

“Now, we’re building on this momentum, extending an open invitation to any student who wants to learn, innovate and grow. The University of Central Oklahoma is your pathway to a bright future.”

Additionally, Central’s on-campus

housing facilities have nearly reached full capacity — showing the growing demand among students to live and thrive on campus.

Undergraduate applications for the fall 2024 academic year are now

open and prospective students are encouraged to apply early. For more information on how to apply to Central, visit www.uco.edu/apply.

For more information about Central, visit www.uco.edu.

The University of Central Oklahoma welcomes the Class of 2027, its largest increase in freshmen class enrollment in Central history — making a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to academic excellence and transformative learning. Pictured, a UCO student in front of Central’s Forensic Science Institute.

Cox employees award 81K for Metro area teachers

Oklahoma City area educators can apply now through Sunday, Oct. 1, for grants impacting one classroom up to $5,000 and grants impacting multiple classrooms up to $10,000 totaling nearly $81,000 through its unique employee-funded giving program known as Cox Charities.

School administrators, teachers, teaching assistants and media specialists (Pre-K through 12th grades) in Cox’s serviceable areas in the Oklahoma City metro area are invited to apply by visiting the Cox Charities website. The grant funding will be used to support technology and programs that promote and enhance students' academic success and educational experience.

Ray Hibbard

In addition to Cox Charities education grants, Cox Communications further supports local schools, individuals, and families year-round through several low-cost programs aimed at ensuring access to the internet. In addition to the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) , Cox Communications offers lowcost internet to those that qualify through Connect2Compete for families with students, ConnectAssist, and StraightUp Internet.

The $81,000 in Cox Communications Education Grants to be awarded for the 2023-24 school year are in addition to $176,000 in Cox Charities Investment grants awarded to 19 Oklahoma City metro nonprofits in August. Since 2006, Cox Charities has supported schools and nonprofits through employee-funded grants totaling more than $8.6 million. For more information about Cox Charities, visit www.coxcharities.org

Cox Charities is an incredible organization made up of the employees and with a giving heart to the people located in the communities where they work and live. We have so many terrific corporate citizens, but this is one where employees get a chance to name who benefits and they help raise money as well.

At Cox Communications, community involvement is more than a commitment, it’s a way of life. Cox Charities is the primary way we support local communities. The mission of Cox Charities is to strengthen the communities we live and work in through the support of programs that positively impact Oklahomans in the areas of education, technology, social issues and the arts.

Nationwide, nearly 4,000 employees live, work and play in the communities Cox serves. This presence translates into a strong dedication to growing and improving the quality of life in those cities and neighborhoods.

As a local company, Cox looks for opportunities to make a difference in the lives of their Oklahoma friends and neighbors through both the products we provide our customers and the assistance we offer local charities. We believe this is vital to the success of our business, and the enrichment of the Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas they serve.

Cox employees are known for their generosity

and involvement in the community. It is this involvement and desire to improve the communities we serve that led to the creation of Cox Charities.

Employees have pledged more than $5 million to Cox Charities to benefit Oklahoma schools and Oklahoma non-profit organizations. Cox Charities (formerly known as the Cox Connects Foundation) is funded 100% by local Cox employees. In addition, local Cox employees donate more than 2,500 combined hours of volunteer time to organizations throughout the state.

For more information about Cox Charities and its Innovation in Education or Community Investment programs, visit www.CoxCharitiesOklahomaCity.com.

—Here is some more info on the group that I thought you might want to consider when picking who your service provider is:

Cox understands the importance of serving the communities in which our employees and customers live and work. For us, philanthropy is more than a buzzword – it’s a mission and an opportunity to use our time, talent and technology in ways that strengthen cities, businesses and future generations.

Cox is proud to make a difference in the communities it serves and in which its employees live. Focusing on organizations that support youth and education, Cox provided millions of dollars through cash and in-kind donations to local community organizations last year alone.

When considering applications for support, Cox uses the following guidelines:

We strive to develop and support various initiatives that impact people’s lives, with a critical focus on youth and education, diversity and environmental issues.

Diversity is a core value at Cox, and we strongly encourage applications from organizations that meet the needs of our community's unique and diverse population, including minorities, women and the disadvantaged.

Driving positive environmental change — inside

our company and within the communities we serve — is one of the most important things we do.

We will consider partnerships that foster and encourage, promote and create opportunities for environmental sustainability.

Cox also looks for opportunities to involve our employees in community projects, combining our financial support with the time and talent of employee volunteers.

All opportunities that further our goal of strengthening the social, economic and educational infrastructure of our community will be considered.

Requests must serve the needs of the communities where Cox operates, and our employees work and live.

Cox does not support the following:

Individuals

Travel

Organizations that discriminate

Sports teams

Parent teacher organizations, associations, or booster clubs for individual schools

Endowment funds

Religious or political organizations

Courtesy services for administrative facilities

We are blessed in Edmond with so many corporate citizens and many of them are business rivals. They want to improve our community and make Edmond a better place and it is appreciated. Most or the activities and programs you see happening rely on big sponsors.

Citizens Bank of Edmond makes so much happen downtown with their support all of Edmond. A little-known program that the bank started and still finances is Heard on Hurd. Most of the development that has come out of downtown had the idea planted by Heard on Hurd. Any community prospers with good corporate sponsors.

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.

‘Home Run for Life’

Survivor stresses importance of checkups

Kendi Wampler epitomizes the importance of regular health checkups and screenings. She was honored during the fifth and final INTEGRIS Health “Home Run For Life” event of the 2023 OKC Dodgers baseball season held last weekend at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the community who have overcome a significant medical event with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals. To symbolize the end of their battle against adversity, honorees take a home run “lap” around the bases during a pregame ceremony.

Kendi’s Cancer Journey:

Wampler was always proactive in getting breast screenings because of the history of cancer in her family. “I did everything right,” she said. After a clean mammogram in January 2021, an MRI in August revealed a small mass in each breast. A biopsy later uncovered that the mass in the right breast was benign, but the mass in the left breast was an aggressive tumor.

She was diagnosed with triple-positive HER2-positive breast cancer. “It comes as a shock when it happens to you,” Wampler admits. She was in her dance studio with her mother, preparing to teach her students, when she received the phone call with the test results.

Within two weeks of the diagnosis, Kendi completed consultations with the breast surgeon and oncologist and began treatment. She underwent 12 weeks of chemotherapy before undergoing a lumpectomy and a sentinel lymph node biopsy. This was followed by 16 rounds of radiation. She continued to teach her dance classes and credits her students as her motivation, as they wrote her notes and words of encouragement. “They’re my happy spot and they were my inspiration,” she said.

Wampler received her final Herceptin infusion just under a year after her treatment started and will continue to have regular checkups. She remained upbeat throughout the entire journey and thanks the staff at INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute and the INTEGRIS Health Comprehensive Breast Center for being with her every step of the way. “They suggested the MRI in August even though the January mammogram was clear. This is the type of preventative care INTEGRIS Health pro-

vides,” she proclaims. “Otherwise, I would have waited a full year until my next annual exam and the cancer undoubtedly would have spread by then. My outcome might not have been so good.”

Wampler currently resides in Duke, Okla. with her husband, John, and just sold her dance studio of 32 years to a former student. She’s elated to be able to spend more time with her family but

knows she’ll always be welcome at her old studio. “I’m allowed to pop in on some classes and get some hugs,” Wampler laughs.

While she may be retiring, she has no plans to stop advocating for the benefits of regular checkups and screenings. “Catching breast cancer early can make all the difference,” she claims. “I’m living proof of that.”

Kendi Wampler

Group honors Police Sergeant

Edmond Police Sergeant Jeff Morefield received the Champion of Character for Courage award on Friday, Aug. 25, at Vault 405. His longtime friend, James Krakowski nominated him for the commendation. He was present when the Character Council of Edmond honored Morefield with his certificate. Also attending were Edmond Chief of Police J.D. Younger, Morefield’s wife, Emily, his parents, retired Col. Ken and Eileen Morefield, as well as members of the OnCallProject Board (OCP).

Morefield grew up in a military family. He was born in Arkansas but spent a lot of time in Ramstein, Germany where his father was stationed as an Air Force pilot. He attended grade school and high school while living there.

When he graduated in 1994, his parents remained in Germany while he flew 6,000 miles back to the states. He enrolled in OU as a member of the Air Force ROTC program while also attending UCO as a Criminal Justice Degree student. Even though he left OU due to medical issues, he stayed at UCO. He graduated from the Police Academy in 1998.

When he started his journey, he couldn’t imagine what the future would look like. Morefield said, “My path has always been the one that I believed God wanted me to be on.

You put it in the hands of God and just say, ‘Take me where you want me to go.’ You really believe in what He is telling you to do. He has provided so many blessings for me and my family. And not just my immediate family but also our extended family.”

Morefield began his career as a police officer with the City of Yukon but joined the Edmond Police department in 2001, where he has been since.

At the age of 34, Morefield joined the National Guard and went to Officer Candidate School, opening the door to his original desire to pursue a military career.

Edmond’s Chief of Police, J.D. Younger said, “Morefield is an accomplished and decorated police officer and United States Army Officer. Jeff displays courage in many aspects of his life including starting a military career at an age when many are ending theirs.”

Morefield adheres to a strong belief of keeping what he calls his, “trilogy,” correct. The trilogy he refers to is his spiritual, mental and physical fitness.

Focusing on a balanced trilogy enables him to keep himself ingrained with God, creating time to spend with family and friends and devoting himself to staying healthy.

Morefield said, “Being courageous is actually putting up boundaries to where you don’t let other things get in the way of what you feel is important.”

Morefield said, “I have surrounded myself with a band of brothers who help me. The whole concept of iron sharpening iron. I have good friends and mentors that help me through

that. The great thing is that even though they are helping me, I’m hoping to help them too.”

Both his and Emily’s parents live close by. So, he further enjoys the benefits of a close-knit bond with family and extended family that provides support and encouragement.

He is a self-proclaimed work-out fanatic. It is a part of his trilogy that he enjoys and knows is important to his well-being and enables him to perform all the duties expected of him as a police officer and military officer.

Morefield observed that courage is what once was called discipline and said, “To me, to be courageous is doing the right thing at the right time, even when nobody is looking.”

When police officers go out to do their jobs, there is a lot that happens behind the scenes. Morefield said, “As a police officer and an army officer we’re held to an oath. There is a lot of training and there is a lot of foundation building before you go and do any of that stuff. You have to have the mentality of being willing to sacrifice yourself to facilitate a security environment.”

He was twenty-two years into the job before he experienced his first

officer involved shooting. Morefield said, “I think the strength of my trilogy helped me get through that.”

He stressed the importance of understanding and knowing it’s necessary to keep yourself healthy in all three areas. Not just one or two. Morefield said, “All three is what is going to keep me healthy and not being afraid to talk about that.”

Chief Younger said, “Jeff’s courage is not reserved for heroic events but is displayed daily in his willingness to commit his time to efforts that benefit others. Special Olympics Oklahoma, Folds of Honor, and Tunnels to Towers are just a few of the organizations that Jeff has committed to in addition to his professional and family responsibilities. Doing what is right will be Jeff’s legacy in the Edmond community.”

One of the projects Morefield is currently involved with is creating a Police Officer Memorial, honoring fallen Edmond Police Sergeant C.J. Nelson and a remembrance of others who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Morefield, along with Detective Baxley and Sergeant James Hamm, are fund-raising and working to help make it happen.

The OCP is another venture that Morefield is working on, along with James Krakowski. “The OCP provides resources for the professional development and personal growth of First Responders in search of opportunities to translate their skill set into the private sector” (https://oncallproject.com/).

James Krakowski said, “The community of Edmond benefits daily from Jeff's courage and sacrifice to serve his fellow man in his actions and commitment to a higher power.”

Morefield and Emily have been married for twelve years. Their eightyear-old daughter, Olivia, attends Oklahoma Christian School. Emily owns her own business, Emily’s Salon, where she works as a hair stylist.

Morefield served with many teams and specialized units throughout his career. He served on Edmond’s SWAT team, spent 16 years on the Scuba Diving team, and was a field training officer. He has been a member of the Oklahoma Gang Investigation Association since 2005 and served as central director for a while. He has also been a member of the Honor Guard since 2009 and is a Crisis Intervention Officer.

Since graduating from Officer Candidate School, Morefield has been an artillery officer out of Ft. Sill with the 45th Field Artillery Brigade. He is also currently operations officer with the 1-158 Field Artillery Battalion. He was deployed twice to Afghanistan, Kuwait and Iraq. During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 he commanded the unit in Iraq and Kuwait. He received the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and various service ribbons.

Morefield received the 2003 State Police Officer of the Year award, the Life Saving Award twice, and the Medal of Valor twice.

He was also recognized as the Patriot of the Game at the University of Oklahoma during the OU/KU Game, Oct. 2022.

On behalf of the City of Edmond and the Character Council of Edmond, Sergeant Jeff Morefield was honored as a Champion of Character for exemplifying the character trait of courage, defined by Character First as “overcoming fear by saying and doing what is right.”

The Character Council is a grassroots, nonprofit organization committed to creating a citywide initiative to build Edmond into a "Community of Character."

The group believes that the character of a nation can only be strengthened one person at a time, one community at a time. Toward that end, the Character Council of Edmond seeks to recognize residents who demonstrate character, as witnessed by those who have been affected and influenced.

To nominate a citizen as a “Champion of Character,” one who exemplifies these character traits, visit www.edmondcharacter.org or write: Champions of Character, PO Box 392, Edmond OK 73083-0392.

Latest update on city projects

(Editor’s Note: City officials issued this release on street projects affecting many in Edmond.)

New projects

Lane closure on Boulevard: The righthand lane on northbound Boulevard, between 2nd and 1st streets, will be closed this weekwhile work to replace an air conditioner at 1st Christian Church is completed. Work is expected to take less than a day, with cooperative weather.

On-going projects

Main and Littler closures: Physical demolition of the Downtown Community Center (DCC) and the Planning and Public Works (PPW) building has begun. Demolition of the DCC could mean periodic short-term closures of Main Street. Littler Avenue, between First and Main streets, is closed and will remain closed through the demolition and construction processes. Except for periodic short-

term closures, Main Street will remain open through the end of this year. Beginning January 2024, Main Street will close from the Littler intersection to half a block west of the four-way stop and will remain closed for the duration of the City Center Complex project work. Several parking areas near the construction site are closed, including the Littler Lawn parking areas, the east parking lot behind the PPW building, and a portion of the City-owned parking lot on the northwest corner of Littler and Main. Work to complete the project and open all street and parking closures is expected to be completed by March 2025.

Boulevard lane closures: Boulevard southbound between 9th Street and 15th Street will continue to have intermittent lane closures as part of water line construction for the FY20 water line improvements project.

Main Street: Main Street is closed west of

Broadway at the railroad tracks to N. Santa Fe Street while work is being completed on the Oxlley multi-family project, as well as streetscape and additional on-street parking on Main Street. With cooperative weather, the street will reopen in early December.

Fourth Street closure: As part of the Stephenson Park improvements project, Fourth Street between Boulevard and Littler Avenue is now open. While the road is open, the parking stalls along Fourth Street will remain closed while work on the park continues.

Completed projects

Steps reconstructed in alleyway: Steps and paving repair near the east of the entrance of Prime Travel in the alleyway just south of Hurd Street is completed and work on the drainage

Emily and Sgt. Jeff Morefield proudly display the certificate of recognition given to Jeff by the Edmond Character Council. He was honored for his trait of courage.

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Annual Down Syndrome Association benefit set

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma (DSACO) will host its 29th annual Down Syndrome Festival & 5K at the Myriad Botanical Gardens on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023.

“We serve approximately 1,000 families in the central Oklahoma area,” said Sarah Soell, executive director of DSACO. “This event is not only our largest fundraiser, but also meant to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome living within our community and their abilities.”

This will be the annual awareness walk held in Oklahoma City to raise funds and promote DSACO’s mission to “raise awareness and provide resources, as well as promote acceptance and inclusion for people with Down syndrome.”

The 1-mile Fun Run and 5K will begin at 8 a.m. and the awareness walk (approximately four city blocks) will begin at 10 a.m. followed by festival activities. This year’s activities include a DJ, carnival games, inflatables, bubble makers, therapy dogs, and entertainment for all ages. There will also be more than 30 resource vendors there to provide information to families. More than 4,000 people are expected to attend this years walk with more than 100 family teams who are raising money.

In addition to the 5K, which is a USATF sanctioned race, other options include 1-mile Fun Run and a virtual 5K option. Registration for both races and the virtual option is $50/person and includes a t-shirt and medal for all finishers. Participating in the awareness walk and entry into the

festival are free and open to the public.

The Festival and 5K is the largest annual fundraiser for DSACO. Funds raised help the organization accomplish its goals through programs such as microwave-based cooking classes for teens and adults, a free one-onone tutoring sessions, distribution of new parent packets, self-advocacy center, workshops, parent-to-parent support meetings and scholarships for families to attend national conferences and conventions. DSACO offers a variety of programs for individuals and families of all ages.

To learn more about participating in the Down Syndrome Festival and 5K visit www.dsfestivaland5k.com. Parking the day of the event will be available free of charge at the American Parking lot accessed off Reno and Harvey Avenues. For information about the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma please visit www.dsaco.org, call (405) 600-9981 or email info@dsaco.org.

—-

The mission of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma is to raise awareness and provide resources, as well as promote acceptance and inclusion for people with Down syndrome. We do this through a variety of family-oriented events, educational workshops, and community awareness campaigns. DSACO envisions communities where everyone — including those with disabilities — is accepted, included, empowered and given the opportunity and choice to create their own happiness and path to success.

Families line up at the start line for the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma Awareness walk with the banner ACCEPT. RESPECT. INCLUDE.

Bronchos win opener, 24-21

Central Oklahoma opened the 2023 season with a 24-21 victory over Nebraska Kearney in an MIAA matchup at Chad Richison Stadium.

“I’m proud of the guys for getting it done tonight,” UCO head football coach Adam Dorrel said. “We were sloppy in some parts, but we did really good overall. Kearney is a really good team, they’re going to win a lot of games. We found a way to get it done and come away with a win.”

UCO went down 7-0 in the first quarter after Kearney went 12 plays for 75 yards to take an early lead. But the Bronchos reeled off 17 unanswered after that to take command in the first half.

Nicky Quevedo put through a 29-yard field goal in the first quarter. Stephon Brown then found Oscar Hammond on a 33-yard touchdown and

Trevon Woolfolk scampered for a 19-yard touchdown to give the Bronchos a 17-7 lead with 4:01 left in the first half.

UNK got back in the game with a touchdown in the third quarter before a huge play by the Bronchos proved to be the difference in the game.

Loper QB T.J. Davis, who earned MIAA Player of the Year honors in each of the past two seasons, threw an interception on the visiting sideline and J.K. Moore, a starting cornerback in his first game in a Broncho uniform, snatched the ball and sprinted 54 yards for a touchdown. The pick-six gave UCO a 24-14 lead with just over four minutes left in the third quarter.

UNK added a late touchdown to make it a one score game, 24-21 with three minutes left, but UCO ran the clock out on the victory.

Central Oklahoma finished the game with 417 total yards, putting together 247 rushing yards and 170 passing yards.

Brown went 13-for-24 with the 170 yards passing and one touchdown. He added 14 carries for 42 yards. Hammond led the receiving corps with seven catches for 95 yards and one touchdown.

Woolfolk had 12 rushes for 101 yards and a touchdown. Andrew Carney added 60 yards on 15 carries and Payton Scott had 41 yards on 11 carries.

Johnathan Mosley led the defense with six tackles. Moore had five with the interception and Kobey Stephens also had five tackles.

Central Oklahoma hits the road in Week 2 to take on Central Missouri (1-0) in Warrensburg, Mo. Saturday, Sept. 9 at 1 p.m.

Trevon Woolfolk carries the ball against Nebraska Kearney Thursday night in the 2023 season opener. UCO Photo Services

Annual Rhizome and plant sale Sept. 23

The Edmond Iris and Garden Society is having its annual Fall Rhizome and Plant Sale on Saturday, September 23, 2023 from 9-1 at the Rodkey House in Stephenson Park, 410 S. Littler in downtown Edmond.

Prior to the sale Society members will gather, clean and tag hundreds of rhizomes from their home collections of tall bearded, border bearded, dwarf bearded, median, historic, space age, Louisiana and reblooming iris. There will be a wide variety of colors and types of named and unnamed iris. Rhizomes are reasonably priced and anyone interested in purchasing plants and iris should come early for the best selection.

Rainbow Iris bags with a variety of surprise irises and bags of Historic Edmond Irises rescued from the community will also be for sale, along with potted iris and perennial plants. Planting instructions and information on growing iris in Oklahoma will be included with any purchase along with the opportunity to discuss gardening with club members.

“Some of the proceeds this year will go toward our Centennial coming up in 2025,” Anita Schlaht, current president said. “The Edmond Iris Club began in 1925 and has participated in community projects and planted iris in Edmond for almost 100 years. Some of the money we raise each year goes to a Horticulture Scholarship at Oklahoma State University while other funds go toward the maintenance of the flowerbeds at the Rodkey House and our Iris Garden in Hafer Park,” Mrs. Schlaht added.

The Edmond Iris and Garden Society is open to anyone interested in gardening and plants. The group meets the first Thursday of each month at 1:00 in the afternoon at the Town Square Clubhouse off Danforth and Coltrane. Meetings consist of social time, a short business meeting of the society, and a garden related educational program. Refreshments are provided by members. Membership dues are $10 and membership forms are available by emailing edmondirisandgarden@gmail.com and at the Rhizome Sale.

the Edmond History Museum

Book sale this Saturday At

The Edmond History Museum and Edmond Genealogy Society will host a used book sale on Sept 9, 15:00pm, located at 431 S Boulevard.

The book sale will include used books on a variety of topics, including history, woodworking, crafting, military topics, scouting, culture, children’s titles, maps and atlases. Also featured are some encyclopedia sets (including a set from the 1880s) and magazines such as: Genealogical Helper, Oklahoma Today, Life, Time, and Boy’s Life.

Prices range from $1 to $10, with a few exceptions. Some extra office supplies will also be on sale. Proceeds from the sale support the museum’s Research Library and Genealogical Center, which provides Oklahoma history and genealogy re-

sources for researchers.

Note: The book sale features donated books for this event and items deaccessioned from the Museum’s library collection. Some are duplicates, in lesser condition, or no longer meet our needs/criteria. Selections were judged based on a rubric that assessed the historical content, its relevancy to Edmond history or larger Oklahoma themes, or relativity to library/genealogy processes needed for research at the museum’s Research Library and Genealogical Center.

Museum Information: Edmond History Museum hours are 10:00-5:00 Monday – Friday and 1:00-4:00 on Saturdays. Visit the museum website at www.edmondhistory.org or call 405-340-0078.

Left to right in front: 2022 Sale – David Mleko, Leonard Murphy, Mary Jo Fortuna, Karen Brice, Christie Stoops, Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis, Noreen Clouse.

Left to right on the porch: Leigh Fox, Diann Schwerdtfeger, Marian Coffey, Don McCullough, Kirby and Anita Schlaht.

Not all news bad

By Steve Gust

It might be tempting to think that we’re living in bad times.

Afterall, we have a shooting at a high school football game as well as other problems. It seems like rage is everywhere.

Steve Gust

We have road rage as well as rage on jetliners. If that’s not bad enough, people post videos all the time showing stores being looted as well as violence in fast food restaurants. You really have to wonder about the sanity of someone who would go ballistic over getting regular size fries versus the grande size fries.

It does amaze me. I don’t know why someone can’t just accept their menu order and move on. If the order wasn’t done right and the restaurant won’t fix it then move on. There are lots of other places to eat.

But it’s important to remember that these disgruntled folks aren’t everyone.

Look inside the pages of your friendly community newspaper, Edmond Life & Leisure. Besides incredible ads, we have stories about people wanting to make this world better. Last

week we had an article about St. Jude’s once again awarding their Dream Home to a lucky family. The Dream Home program raises millions of dollars for the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Center That place, thanks to the late entertainer Danny Thomas, helps lots and lots of sick children.

This week we have stories about the United Way and Oklahoma Medical Research foundation kicking off drives. Both of those places make a big difference.

Then there’s an article about the Down Syndrome Association getting ready to have a benefit run.

I guess the problem is that those kinds of activities may not have the same kind of shock video value as a store being rampaged by thieves.

So before we completely give up on humanity, we should know there are generous people around who care about others.

—-

It was sad seeing the gunfire at a high school football game.

High school football is normally a great celebration of a community, and school, coming together.

I hope the few sick troublemakers involved don’t ruin that experience for everyone.

Concerning Ryan Walters

State Democrats seek investigation of official

Last week House Democrats called on the Speaker of the House to form a special bipartisan committee to investigate possible impeachment charges for State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters amid recent bomb threats at Tulsa area elementary schools believed to be linked to Walters' rhetoric about Tulsa Public Schools.

“Oklahomans deserve a public school system where parents, students and teachers feel safe to go to school and the needs of our students are prioritized over dangerous political rhetoric,” said House Democratic Caucus Chair Trish Ranson, DStillwater.

House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City said the special bipartisan committee would investigate the current state superintendent to determine if his actions rise to the level of impeachment.

“Allocating funds for public education should be free of corruption or political gain. There is already evi-

dence of Walters’ corruption through misspent federal dollars along with discrepancies in his campaign finances. Paired with his toxic rhetoric that is impacting the safety of our schools, we believe it is more than enough to, at the very least, investigate him,” Leader Munson said.

Rep. Provenzano mentioned that the rhetoric from the state superintendent has been harmful and potentially compromised the safety of school children. She also believes he is willfully neglecting his duty of office.

“The rhetoric from the state superintendent has, up until now, been designed to distract and sow chaos. But now, elementary schools in the Tulsa area have received bomb threats as a result of disinformation shared by him. Our children deserve to be safe. The willful neglect of that duty, even in the highest offices in our state, cannot and will not be overlooked. Enough is enough,” Rep. Provenzano added. Leader Munson said, "We share in the growing frustration of Oklahomans across our state who want action to address their deep concerns for the future of public education. It is now time for action."

——

Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, issued the following statement Tuesday regarding the House Democrats’ call for an investigation into the actions of the state superintendent of public instruction.

“We support our Democratic colleagues in the State House in their call for the Speaker of the House to convene a special bipartisan committee to investigate the actions of the state superintendent of public instruction amid bomb threats for Tulsa area elementary schools. These threats are a direct result of reckless rhetoric and must be addressed.

“As elected leaders, we are obligated to our constituents to hold the government accountable to the people of Oklahoma. The safety of Oklahoma’s students and families depends on changes to the current situation.” – Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City.

Lankford: China has link to K-12 grades

Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) and their Senate colleagues in a letter to Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona expressing concerns over new reports showing millions of dollars from Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-linked entities have flowed into America’s K-12 classrooms.

The Senate letter also requests the US Department of Education conduct a nationwide audit to determine the extent of funding from hostile foreign adversaries in schools. The call for an investigation comes amid revelations that, for nearly two decades, the CCP has threatened our national security by using tools such as grants, sister school partnerships, “Confucius Classrooms,” and other state-sponsored programming to compromise the integrity of America’s K-12 educational system.

Joining Lankford and Scott are Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee Ranking Member Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jim Risch (R-ID), and Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Thune (R-SD), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and J.D. Vance (R-OH).

“Programs vetted and managed by the Government

of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) have infiltrated 34 states nationwide, impacting more than 170,000 students across 143 school districts,” wrote the Senators. “We urge you to conduct a thorough, nationwide audit to determine how much funding from hostile foreign governments has flowed to America’s K-12 schools. We also urge you to analyze the extent to which other hostile foreign governments, in addition to the PRC, may have already gained access to our K-12 schools.”

You can view the full letter below:

Dear Secretary Cardona:

We write to express deep concerns regarding an alarming new report describing how millions of dollars of funding from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) have flowed into America’s K-12 classrooms. The report found that programs vetted and managed by the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) have infiltrated 34 states nationwide, impacting more than 170,000 students across 143 school districts. We urge you to conduct a thorough, nationwide audit to determine how much funding from hostile foreign governments has flowed to America’s K-12 schools. We also urge you to analyze the extent to which other hostile foreign governments, in addition to the PRC, may have already gained access to our K-12 schools.

For nearly two decades, the CCP has engaged in ef-

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forts to exert influence in American schools and our education system. Through grants, sister school partnerships, ‘Confucius Institutes,’ and other state-sponsored programming, the CCP has worked to gain access to America’s education system to advance its own agenda. In a 2016 article, Chinese state-run media reported that the CCP considers Confucius Institutes ‘important channels’ to promote and advance the Belt and Road Initiative. In 2020, the US Department of State designated Confucius Institutes as a ‘foreign mission’ of the Chinese government and Congress took steps to restrict US Department of Defense funding from universities that host such institutes.

It is clear that the CCP is using the same playbook to extend information operations into our K-12 classrooms. However, measures to restrict ‘Confucius Classrooms’ or prevent the expansion of other forms of propaganda at the primary and secondary level have yet to be taken. As the 2022 National Defense Strategy states, ‘[the] most comprehensive and serious challenge to US national security is the PRC’s coercive and increasingly aggressive endeavor to refashion…the international system to suit its interests and authoritarian preferences.’ While we firmly believe that American students should be exposed to a variety of languages and cultures, that instruction should not be a vehicle to advance the interests of a totalitarian power.

The CCP is the greatest threat to America’s security today. The CCP’s involvement in the K-12 education system further demonstrates how far the Chinese government is willing go to expand its influence and promote its authoritarian agenda. We cannot sit idle and allow this expansion of CCP propaganda. Parents deserve transparency and policymakers must know the extent of the problem so we can work on solutions to protect both our students and our national security.

Accordingly, we urge you to conduct a thorough, nationwide audit to determine how much funding from hostile foreign governments has flowed into America’s K-12 schools.

The splendor of the Netherlands

By Elaine Warner

Early, early morning: this was the last day of our Viking voyage. We’d cruised quietly through the night from Cologne. Jack was sleeping soundly as I quickly dressed and bundled up for the morning chill. Out the door and up on deck, I felt an instant recognition of being in one of my favorite countries – the Netherlands..

A barge was parked on the west bank of the river. Barges are not uncommon on the Rhine. But his one typified the Dutch practice of organizing small spaces and keeping things orderly. Metal tops neatly covered the cargo on the back of the barge. The front was obviously home – a black Volkswagen sat atop the cabin. The windows of the cabin sported immaculate lace valances. A tidy container of silverware and bottles of condiments perched on one windowsill. Two baskets of eggs were in view through the second window and the sill of the last window was occupied by several green plants and a small model of a sailboat.

It was 7:01. The sun, still below the horizon, gave a pink tint to the sky and a golden glow to the underside of the clouds. Although the eastern sky looked clear, ahead of us, the sky was gray. As I watched, a tinge of color appeared on the horizon. Almost magically, it climbed and arced – a rainbow with a faintly-colored twin. In spite of the mist, it promised a wonderful day.

We still had a way to go to get to Amsterdam. We enjoyed lunch on the ship, then boarded a bus to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site a few miles southeast of Rotterdam.

From the bus window, we could see beautiful little farms and country houses. Here, in the countryside, away from bustling Amsterdam, was the landscape I’d imagined.

As we neared the UNESCO site, we passed through a small village with charming homes which hugged the road. Figuring out the age of the

houses was impossible – the Dutch keep their properties so immaculately maintained. (I have yet to see a Dutch window which isn’t sparkling clean.)

One house sported a thatched roof while another was topped with solar panels.

As we drove, the sight of a dozen plus windmills signaled our destination. At their peak, there were approximately 10,000 windmills dotting the landscape of this small country. Today, there are about 1,200 of the traditional mills, many still running but primarily for preservation of heritage rather than former, practical purposes. The nineteen mills in the Kinderdijk collection make up one of the largest concentrations of these magnificent machines.

Windmills have been icons of the Dutch landscape for many centuries. Using them to pump water from swampy areas to create more land helped reclaim about 2,500 square miles from the ocean. Today a sophisticated network of pumps and canals do the job efficiently, if not as picturesquely.

After a brief introduction, we boarded a vintage

canal boat. The Jantina was built over 100 years ago. Formerly a cargo ship, it had been adapted as tourist transportation. We traveled up a small canal past a number of windmills. We stopped briefly, waiting for a small bridge to be raised. This took longer than usual as a tourist with a camera had planted herself firmly mid-bridge, determined to get her shot. (Even I, as much as I might have wanted to, wouldn’t have had that much nerve!)

Dutch windmills can generally be sorted into three types: ground sailer mills, stage mills, and post mills. Sailers and stages are most common, the main difference being the height. Most of the windmills at Kinderdijk were built in the 1700s; 17 of them are ground sailers -- the sails come close to the ground. The odd mill out -- the De Blokker Mill, a post mill – dates back to 1630.

Post mills were used in the Netherlands as early as the 13th century. They look like backyard storage units perched on pyramids. Unlike later windmills which were not only used to pump water but to grind grain, power sawmills and aid in the production of paper and paint, the post mills were primarily used to pump water out of polders.

If you’re old enough to remember when “social studies” was a regular part of elementary education, you’ll remember Dutch dikes and polders. For those who are younger – the Dutch would build dikes (walls) around swampy or shallow areas near the seashore. Once the area was enclosed, they would pump water out of these areas, which are called polders. The water would be carried by canals into rivers and, ultimately, the ocean.

We docked by the De Blokker Mill, one of several set up for touring. Recreating a living space of an earlier century, to save space, beds sat atop storage drawers and in lofts and wooden shoes (klompen) were stored in racks. Worn-out shoes were used for firewood. We assume the painted shoes are more valuable, but it’s just the opposite. Plain wooden shoes are made of finer wood – paint is just used to hide a multitude of sins. And, yes, in the country you will find people who still wear wooden shoes for gardening or farming.

The kitchen was in a small, separate building outside – a cooking fire was a danger in these old wooden structures. While we were outside, our guide showed us how he put the sails on the wooden, frame-like blades of the windmill and also explained how the top of the windmill could be turned to catch the wind.

This was the last day of our trip – 11 days where we went from Lake Como to cathedrals and castles and ending with the blue skies and puffy, white clouds over the iconic windmills of the Netherlands. The morning’s rainbow was the ribbon on this great travel package. St, Augustine wrote, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” This trip would make the Best Seller list. Thanks for letting me relive my journey with you.

The roof variations on these windmills give them the name ‘smock ground sailers.’

Neat houses encircle this pond in the village near the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Elaine

The De Blokker Mill, a post mill, is the oldest windmill in the Kinderdijk complex

The Edmond Women’s Repuiblican Club is pleased to announce that the speaker for our September 18th meeting will be Holly Gerard. Holly has worked on campaigns for more than 25 years, from local to presidential race involvement, and has volunteered for campaigns and causes since well before she was old enough to vote.

For over a dozen years, Holly has earned a strong winning record as a general consultant, built upon the realization that there was a significant need for a consulting firm that works only for candidates and causes that reflect shared prin-

ciples. Holly works with the Ascent Action staff to craft a personalized blueprint for each campaign, designing a hands-on tactical operation, innovative messaging approach, and a strategy that wins. Her expertise includes market analysis and opposition research, message development for target audiences, identifying and developing new and expanded market and advocacy opportunities, strategic development plan development and execution, and facilitating education, training, skill development of field teams. Holly is deeply committed to conservative activism, helping to organize GOP groups

and teaching activist bootcamps, formerly served on the State Executive Committee of the OKGOP and is active in her local county GOP. She has also assisted on numerous GOP initiatives - including serving as statewide co-chair of the OKGOP Courthouse Committee, the RNC Rural Working Group Committee, and Executive Committee of the 2015 Southern Republican Leadership Conference, Permanent Organizing Chair for the Oklahoma Delegation at the 2016 RNC Convention, was awarded the Rising Star from Oklahoma

See GOP, Page 14

Weekend Calendar of Events, Sept. 7-10

What’s Happening This Weekend Sept. 7-10

---- In the Gallery

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

---- Beginners Pickleball Club

---- Farmer’s Market

---- VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art

Experience

---- Live Music at Frenzy

---- Brown Bag: Why We Fight: Art in Peace and War

---- Busker Street Fair

---- PBR Freedom Fest

---- Guided Gardens Tour

---- Guthrie Ghost Walk

---- Guthrie Road Celebration Car

Show

---- India Food & Arts Festival

Extra Information

In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Meet the Artist at gallery opening, Thu, Sep 7; 5 – 8 p.m.; Featuring David Padgett; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu ; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com

Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020

Location: Edmond History Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Jul 1 – Sun, Dec 31; visitedmondok.com

Beginners Pickleball Club

Location: Kickingbird Pickleball Center

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

Farmer’s Market

Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market

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

VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s

Art Experience

Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 7; 6 – 9 p.m.; Free; edmondvibes.org

Live Music at Frenzy

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 7; Coldbrew @ 6 p.m.; Fri, Sep 8; Rosenbalms @ 7:30 p.m.; Sat, Sep 9; Okie Sasquatch @ 7:30 p.m.; frenzybrewing.com

Brown Bag: Why We Fight: Art in Peace and War

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Thu, Sep 7; 10 – 1 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Busker Street Fair

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 8; 5 – 8 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

PBR Freedom Fest

Location: Paycom Center

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 8 – Sun, Sep 10; Fri: 7:45 p.m.; Sat: 6:45 p.m.; Sun: 1:45 p.m.; paycomcenter.com

Guided Gardens Tour

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 8; 1 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

Guthrie Ghost Walk

Location: Apothecary Garden, Guthrie, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 8 – Sat, Sep 9; 7:15 p.m.; guthrieghostwalk.com

Guthrie Road Celebration Car Show

Location: Mineral Wells Park, Guthrie, OK

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 9; 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.; guthrieroadcelebration.com

India Food & Arts Festival

Location: Scissortail Park

Extra Info: Sun, Sep 10; 3 – 9 p.m.; iaok.org Send calendar items to infante318@cox.net

Obituary

Marry y Thomason 1943 - 2023

Mary Juanita Thomason, 79, o a passed away y on Augus t 26, 202 tober 14, 1943, in Paris, TX, to t Danner and Otis Nelson Ballard. Mary, lovingly known as Mam unique and affectionate soul. Sh interests, including children’s sho game shows, and soap operas. S enjoyed solving puzzles and mys for art and crafts. Mary had a sp phants and her favorite color wa

In her career, Mary worked in banking and security. She also se recorder for the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Office. Add opportunity to meet and take measurements for Conw at a doctor’s office.

Mary’shobbiesbroughthergreatjoyandfulfillment

Marys hobbies brought her great joy and fulfillment. jewelry, solving puzzle books, and expressing herself th painting.

She is survived by her siblings, Gerald Nelson Ballard (Mickey) Ballard; her children, Neva Jean Zegrati, Virgi

T Toommy Eldon Thomason and his wife Andrea Thomas cardo Ian Hernandez, Shana Josefina Hernandez, Sand

a husband Kevin Ray y Wood, Ryan Allen Smith and his w and Kayla Marie Wooten; and her great-grandchildren, a Logan Ray y Wood, Rainer Allen Smith, Benjamin Corbi Michael Smith. Mary Juanita Thomason will be deeply missed by all her. Her memory will forever be cherished.

A private memorial service was held on August 31st.

f Oklahoma City, OK, 3. She was born on Oche late Mary Virginia a and Nana, was a e had a wide range of ws, sci-fi, British shows, he was an avid reader, teries, and had a talent ecial fondness for eles purple. various fields, including rved as an accident itionally, she had the y T a ay Twwitty while working She loved creating rough drawing and and Dora Evelyn nia Marie Wooten, and on; her grandchildren, Rira Ashley Wood and her ife Erica Janiece Smith, Haliyah Janae Wood, n Wood, and Aiden who knew and loved

Edmond GOP Women’s Club will meet on Sept. 18

OMRF & its '77 for 77' statewide campaign

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation celebrated its 77th anniversary on Monday by kicking off a statewide campaign that harkens back to the foundation’s roots.

“Over the next year, we’re going to touch all 77 Oklahoma counties to say ‘thank you’ to Oklahomans for daring to dream in 1946 and for supporting that dream ever since,” said OMRF President Andrew Weyrich, Ph.D. “We’re calling it 77 for 77.”

Weyrich was among several speakers during a kickoff event Monday night at the Oklahoma City-based nonprofit biomedical research foundation. Statewide chairs for the campaign are former First Ladies Kim Henry and Cathy Keating and former Governors Brad Henry and Frank Keating. Kim Henry served on OMRF’s Board of Directors for 19 years and joined its National Advisory Council in 2022. Cathy Keating served on OMRF’s Board for two years before joining the NAC in 2011.

On Aug. 28, 1946, the Oklahoma Secretary of State granted OMRF’s charter. Shortly thereafter, the new foundation launched its initial campaign with a mission that holds true 77 years later: “That more may live longer.” Organizers divided the state into 25 districts to raise awareness and funds. Through this effort, more than 7,500 Oklahomans raised $2 million in gifts and pledges, enough to begin building and staffing OMRF’s headquarters.

Today, OMRF employs nearly 500 staff members who study cancer, heart disease, autoimmune disorders and diseases of aging. Their discoveries have yielded diagnostics tests and three lifesaving drugs now available in hospitals and clinics worldwide. In

the foundation’s Rheumatology and Multiple Sclerosis centers, clinicians care for more than 3,000 patients with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and MS.

“OMRF is one of Oklahoma’s crown jewels, and every Oklahoman should take pride in the work done here,” Cathy Keating said. “I hope that over the next year, thousands more Oklahomans will recognize the world-class medical research taking place right here in their home state.

The 1940s campaign to launch OMRF is a blueprint for 77 for 77. As in the ’40s, each district has local chairs who will host events for local OMRF donors as well as legislators, educators and community stakeholders in 25 focus cities.

Kim Henry, a former teacher, announced a component of 77 for 77 designed to introduce younger Oklahomans to OMRF. The foundation has created a hands-on science experiment kit to distribute to seventhgrade classes in Oklahoma. OMRF will pilot the program in Marlow Public Schools and Putnam City Schools this fall.

“This is a win-win for Oklahoma students,” she said. “We’ll inject critical support into our schools and open new avenues of learning for thousands of Oklahoma students.”

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, who participated in cancer research fund drives for OMRF as a student in Putnam City Schools, called the foundation “a point of pride.”

“Thanks to OMRF’s incredible expansion, the foundation consistently raises Oklahoma City’s national reputation,” Holt said. “With each discovery, it draws the attention of the world’s top researchers in cardiovas-

cular biology, immunology, aging and genetics.”

U.S. Rep Stephanie Bice (OK-05) noted that over the past two decades, OMRF scientists have won more than $500 million in research grants from the National Institutes of Health.

“These federal dollars are fiercely competitive,” Bice said, “and they have yielded significant returns for Oklahomans and all Americans.”

OMRF’s story is unique among the nation’s more than 80 independent research institutes, Weyrich told

attendees at Monday night’s kickoff event.

“To the best of our knowledge, OMRF is the only one created from a statewide campaign. And 77 years later, we’ve grown to house more than 50 labs and two life-changing clinics, thanks largely to the many Oklahomans who have continued to support our mission.”

For information about OMRF’s 77 for 77 campaign, including when Weyrich and foundation staff will be in your community, visit omrf.org/77.

Former First Ladies Cathy Keating and Kim Henry and former Governors Frank Keating and Brad Henry serve as the statewide chairs for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation 77 for 77 campaign.

Former Gov. Brad Henry and First Lady Kim Henry, Amy Weyrich and OMRF President Andrew Weyrich, Ph.D., Former First Lady Cathy Keating and Gov. Frank Keating at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation 77 for 77 OKC Kickoff Event.

Review

of ‘You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah’

A Sandler movie that actually connects

By George Gust

“You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah” is the latest blank check movie that Netflix has given to their longtime comedy collaborator Adam Sandler. This film follows Stacy (Sunny Sandler) and Lydia (Samantha Lorraine) who are BFFs and have always dreamed about having epic bat mitzvahs. However, things start to go comically awry when a popular boy and middle school drama threatens their friendship and their rite of passage.

While it’s clear that “You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah” is a passion project that Sandler has the cachet to bring into existence, but this movie feels like 180 degrees from the previous Sandler comedies (“Grown Ups” or “Just Go With It”). In this movie, Adam Sandler takes more of a backseat and his daughter Sunny takes center stage in this charming coming of age movie that has deep roots in their American-Jewish heritage. “You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah” is refreshing in its approach to the familiar coming of age story by eschewing the more nostalgic approach for some other films in the genre and diving headlong into the social media culture of pre-teens today.

At the heart of “You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah” is the relationship between Stacy and Lydia who follow the wild ups and downs of the preteen years. With Sandler and Lorraine they both brought their own kind of angst and it’s a testament to their respective young acting skills that their tumultuous break up and make up relationship as well as character choices can be irritating in a realistic way, while still delivering on the charm and humor that the script required. And even in the supporting role Adam Sandler’s presence is felt as he plays well off his onscreen

Answers on Page 19

wife Idina Menzel in a charming way and has a fun standoffish dynamic with of Luis Guzmán as the father of his daughter’s best friend.

Overall, “You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah” is a cuter than you’d expect coming of age movie from the Happy Madison crew. This movie knows when to have a more serious tone and when to be broad.

Equal parts coming of age Judy Bloom and overthe-top comedy like “Bride Wars” “You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah” is a brilliant springboard for its young cast in a setting born of today’s internet culture and makes for a refreshing Netflix movie night at home.

“You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah” Rated PG-13 for some crude/suggestive material, strong language and brief teen drinking. Available to stream with a Netflix subscription.

3.5 out of 5 stars

To reach George for comment on this review or any for others movie reviews, please e-mail him gust.george@gmail.com

Special exhibit coming next year

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) today announced its 2024 summer exhibition, Edith Head & The Golden Age of Hollywood Costume Design which will be on view from June 22, 2024, through September 29, 2024. Organized by OKCMOA and presented by The Ann Lacy Foundation, this exciting retrospective of award-winning costume designer Edith Head (1897-1981) will feature more than 70 costumes that capture the height of Head's career and were worn by stars such as Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Ginger Rogers, Shirley MacLaine, Veronica Lake, Barbara Stanwyck, and Kim Novak.

"Edith Head & The Golden Age of Hollywood Costume Design has been generating a great deal of buzz behind the scenes as we’ve been working on this original exhibition for the past few years. Some of us recognize her name and associate her with some of our favorite films, such as director Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo and Rear Window.

Crossword Puzzle

Adam Sandler takes the backseat to his daughter Sunny Sandler and Samantha Lorraine in the newest Netflix original movie ‘You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah.’

This fall fight obesity, TSET suggests

September is Childhood Obesity month, a time dedicated to encouraging healthy lifestyles, nourishing eating habits and raising awareness about obesity. Shape Your Future, a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), is stepping up to help Oklahomans make healthier choices.

Oklahoma’s childhood obesity rate is more than 32%. This reality underscores the urgency of tackling obesity, which is linked to a range of health issues including diabetes, heart disease, joint complications, sleep disorders and even 13 types of cancer. Equally concerning, childhood obesity increases the chances that person will be obese as an adult.

“Obesity is a serious issue for the health of Oklahomans,” said Julie Bisbee, TSET executive director. “Because of packed schedules and limited

resources, many families struggle to be physically active or purchase and prepare healthy meals. Shape Your Future wants to bring awareness and solutions to this serious issue by providing practical solutions for Oklahoma families that want to move more, eat better and be tobacco free.”

Shape Your Future has free resources to help Oklahomans live healthier lifestyles. From free workout plans and videos, recipe cards, budget-saving hacks, toolkits, kid-friendly worksheets and more, every step of the health journey is represented at ShapeYourFutureOK.com.

Parents can model healthy behaviors by getting active, practicing nutritious eating around the family dinner table and avoiding sugary drinks and soda. Simple steps toward developing these healthy habits can go a long way in the fight against obesity.

Thunder announces Spelling Bee

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Scripps have opened registration for the 4th annual Thunder Regional Spelling Bee.

Registration is open to eligible schools across 50 Oklahoma counties.

Schools must register by Dec. 31 and have until Jan. 16 to hold a school-level spelling bee for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The top 25 spellers from the region

will advance to the 2023 Thunder Regional Spelling Bee.

The cost for schools to participate is $180 which helps support Scripps. The winner of the Thunder Regional Spelling Bee qualifies for the national competition in Washington, D.C. alongside the regional winner from the Tulsa area.

To register and for more information, visit okcthunder.com/spellingbee.

For more resources, tips and ideas on living healthy for all Oklahomans, visit ShapeYourFutureOK.com.

——

Shape Your Future (SYF) is a community health education intervention that encourages Oklahomans to eat better, move more and be tobacco free. SYF strives to educate parents, teachers, caregivers and all Oklahomans on how to make the healthy choice the easy choice. Find more information online at ShapeYourFutureOK.com.

The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) serves as a partner and bridge builder for organizations shaping a healthier future for all Oklahomans. TSET provides leadership at the intersections of health by working with local coalitions and initiatives across the state, cultivating innovative and life-changing research,

Genealogy group will focus on major Korean War battle

The Korean War is, by some, considered to be the forgotten war. Occurring between the end of World War 2 and the Vietnam War, most people today will associate it with “MASH”, a popular television show about the experiences of a medical division during the Korean War.

However, the Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group is hosting a program that brings to light one of the greatest battles of the Korean War. “The Frozen Chosin” is about the battle of Chosin Reservoir and will be presented by OHCE Genealogy Group member Emily Hedinger on Sept. 20, at 10 a.m., at the Oklahoma County Extension office, 2500 NE 63rd Street. Veterans of the Korean War, and their family members, are invited to attend.

Emily Hedinger currently works as a licensed health and life insurance agent, but her love of genealogy started at a young age with her maternal grandmother who lived with Emily’s family. Her Granny told many

stories about growing up in the hill country of Texas and with that blossomed her interest in her family stories and history.

The OHCE Genealogy Group meets the third Wednesday of every month, except December, and focuses on genealogy, history, research but mainly on sharing and learning together. Their meetings are open to the public and more information can be found on their website: ohcegenealogy.com or on Facebook: OHCE Genealogy Group.

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

Emily Hedinger

United Way ready to kick off centennial drive

United Way of Central Oklahoma’s 2023 Centennial Campaign Kickoff will be a two-day event presented by FORVIS on Sept. 6 and 7, celebrating its 100-year anniversary of serving the central Oklahoma community. The two-day fundraising event begins with a wine reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 6 at the Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club and continues the following day from 4 to 8 p.m. Sept. 7 with the third annual corporate corn hole tournament, The Hole Shebang! located at the Love’s Travel Stops Stage & Great Lawn at Scissortail Park in downtown Oklahoma City.

Centennial Campaign Co-Chairs Natalie Shirley and Robert Clements will lead this year’s centennial fundraising campaign. A 20-minute program beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the wine reception will kick off the campaign, with a welcome from United Way Board Chair Shane Wharton, president of Love’s Travel Stops. Anticipated news to be announced will be the UWCO 2023 Centennial Campaign Goal and WayFinder Innovation Grant recipients.

The Hole Shebang! corporate corn hole tournament, specially-hosted this year by United Way’s Emerging Leaders, will feature 81 teams in competitive play for the coveted corn hole cup traveling trophy and bragging rights of beating the reigning champion, Chesapeake Energy, if successful. New to this year, UWCO Partner Agencies will team up to compete in a Partner Agency Corn Hole Tournament, uniquely created for their participation. Thanks to the generosity of Love’s Travel Stops, the Love’s 52-foot tanker, featuring UWCO’s centennial logo and theme, “A Century of Compassion” will be parked on-site at both

events, offering photo opportunities for attendees.

In addition to the corporate corn hole challenge, $2,500 sponsors will receive an entry into the CEO Boss Toss challenge, where top company leaders in central Oklahoma will face-off in a competitive bracket with revised rules and extra fundraising incentives.

Proceeds from the wine reception and The Hole Shebang! will contribute to UWCO’s 2023 centennial fundraising campaign to be invested in 141 health and human service programs at 70 local Partner Agencies.

The 2023 Centennial Campaign Two-Day Kickoff is made possible through the support of presenting sponsor FORVIS and the generosity of

Love’s Travel Stops, along with supporting event sponsors: American Fidelity, Arvest, Cavender Auto Family — Oklahoma, Chesapeake Energy, City Trailer & Paint Works, Clements Foods Co., Duncan Oil Properties, Inc., Inc., Ernst & Young LLP, Gaming Capital Group, LSB Industries, Manhattan Construction, MidFirst Bank, OG&E, OKC Thunder, OU Health Sciences Center, and Variety Care.

UWCO’s Centennial Campaign Two-Day Kickoff is free and open for the public to attend. Friends, family and colleagues are encouraged to attend and cheer on tournament competitors while enjoying live music, food trucks and drinks at Oklahoma City’s favorite park.