Edmond Life and Leisure - May 4, 2023

Arts Festival This weekend

Four Seasons, by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. For more information, see page 4.

Meeting Pope Francis

See Page 9

The Downtown Edmond Business Association (DEBA) is the host once again of the 45th annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival in historic downtown Edmond on May 5, 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

The event, which is free to the public, features more than dozens and dozens of artists and hosts live entertainment. Sandy Kay Hunter is the featured artist for this year’s festival. Her beautiful painting “Poppies and Wildflowers,” has been on promotional posters and

billboards.

Please note that downtown street closings start Thursday and continue until the close of the event.

Other activities during this family-friendly event include face painting and magic and balloon art.

If that’s not enough there are the dozens of food vendors and food trucks.

Any other questions, please check out last week’s Arts Festival program, which was printed in Edmond Life & Leisure

PHOTOS BY ERIECH TAPIA

EPS names Dile ‘Teacher of the Year’

Lauren Dile, a kindergarten teacher at West Field Elementary, has been named the 2023 Edmond Teacher of the Year.

Superintendent Angela Grunewald made the announcement on April 20 during the district’s Celebration of Excellence event sponsored by the Edmond Public Schools Foundation.

“Lauren will represent our district so well. She is a model teacher and will help tell the story of Edmond Public Schools,” Grunewald said.

With just a few years under her belt, Dile has become a leader and role model through her coaching of other educators and mentorship of future teachers.

“Edmond values young teachers and gives us the resources we need to succeed,” Dile said.

Dile joined the district in the fall of 2019 after completing her undergraduate degree from the University of Oklahoma with a special distinction in early childhood education.

“Since I was a kindergartner myself, I have known that I wanted to become a teacher,” said Dile. “Teaching had me.”

Dile’s inspiration to teach came after her brother, who has a disability, was denied accommodations at a private school. “That was really what inspired me to be the teacher who is for all students,” Dile said. “I hope to be that kind of educator.”

Dile’s principal, Crystal Smith said many educators come to observe Dile and see her modeling highly effective teaching practices. “She is fiercely passionate about early childhood education … and will professionally advocate and spread her passion through every avenue,” Smith said.

Throughout the year, Dile organizes many activities for her students. Those include trips to the Edmond Fire Departments Children Safety Village, writing letters to veterans on Veteran’s Day, and hosting Popsicles at the Playground during the summer for former students.

Throughout the summer Dile has created resource videos for educators, updated the curriculum, along with taking multiple personal development courses.

Robbi Kinnaird, a secretary at Cimarron Middle School, has been named the 2023 Edmond Public Schools Support Employee of the Year.

“My goal is for the students to be served,” Kinnaird said. “We all have

to work hard to keep the school going.”

Kinnaird began her work in 2017 with Edmond Public Schools and has been a lifelong resident since graduating from Edmond Memorial.

“She has a heart for helping others and this shines through in all the positive interactions she has with others,” said fellow teacher Kristen Patterson.

Known as the “keeper of chocolate,” Kinnaird has shown herself as a light to those who come in and brings fun to the office.

“She always has an encouraging word if someone is having a rough day,” said attendance secretary Karen Byrne. “Her welcoming demeanor and professional attitude along with her organizational skills make her an invaluable resource to so many.”

Her dedication to the school begins each morning, often arriving first and leaving last. She handles substitute teachers and has served as a parent volunteer and as an EPS Foundation board member.

“I love what I get to do,” Kinnaird said.

Robbi’s mother Kathy Thomas was active in the district as PTA President of Orvis Risner Elementary for many years, and her father, Robert Thomas, graduated from Edmond

High School in 1955. The Thomas family goes back to the settler days of Edmond, as she herself is a fourthgeneration settler of Edmond.

“My roots are here in Edmond and I would never go anywhere else.”

Also honored at Edmond’s Celebration of Excellence was Andrew Rosko from Edmond Santa Fe High School,

who was named the Rookie Teacher of the Year.

“I am really excited to see where this journey of being a teacher takes me,” Rosko said.

Rosko began teaching United States and Oklahoma History last November for the district after student teaching within the district.

PHOTO BY ERIECH TAPIA

West Field Elementary teacher Lauren Dile receives $1,000 from Citizens Bank and $500 from the Edmond Public Schools Foundation to fund a DonorsChoose classroom project of her choice as well as more than $1,000 in gifts from area businesses upon being selected as the 2023 District Teacher of the Year.

PHOTO BY ERIECH TAPIA

Cimarron Middle School secretary Robbi Kinnaird receives $1,000 from Citizens Bank and $500 from the Edmond Public Schools Foundation to fund a DonorsChoose education project of her choice as well as more than $1,000 in gifts from area businesses upon being selected as the 2023 District Support Employee of the Year.

Welcome to Edmond Arts Festival

Spring is an exciting time in Edmond. There are lots of activities including graduations, events and all kinds of fun things to do in a build up toward summer fun. The biggest event to kick off the season is the annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival. It has continually been voted a favorite event by Edmond Life & Leisure readers. We publish the official program for the festival and if you want to view it online just go to our website, www.edmondlife&leisure.com, to find a print replica including maps and full information.

Ray Hibbard

It is sure fun to have your office in downtown Edmond when the event is going on. Set up starts on Thursday May 4th this year with the festival kicking in on May 5 and running through Sunday May 7th. Your usual route through downtown Edmond will be blocked so if you usually pass through, it is best to find a different path for those days. Even better would be to stop and enjoy the festival, one of the best in the state.

The weather forecast for this year’s festival is looking good. My heart goes out to the Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts. It was a total rain out for four of the six days. Folks that put on such festivals know it is a chance you take every year. There are just some things you cannot control. They did have great weather Saturday and Sunday and the crowds really turned out. As always, we wish them well.

I can remember a year when a tornado came through parts of Edmond during the night. It was the Thursday night before opening our arts festival. The place was a mess. The chair of the OKC Festival of the Arts gave me a call. “What can we help with,” he asked. He offered to send more volunteers, tents or anything else they had just put away from their festival. Turns out our volunteers along with help from an arm of UCO students had it under control, but I have always appreciated the offer of help.

One year it was incredibly cold for the Edmond Arts Festival. I mean in the 30’s kind of cold. My sister called and asked how it was going. I told her it was 36 degrees outside, but I was going to buy a snow cone. I felt so bad for the guy that I wanted to buy something from him to give him a little business. At 36 degrees folks were not exactly lining up to get a snow cone. When I pulled my money out to pay, he told me to forget it. “I am going to write this off as a rebuilding year,” he told me. It was great to see he still had a sense of humor.

Folks that put-on festivals are just the best. They have a great attitude and do the best they can with things they cannot control like the weather. It is often the same folks every year and you get to be like a family. We are going to be missing one of our family members this year and it is with a heavy heart. Becky Crow was a long-time volunteer for this festival, and she passed just last month. It breaks our heart, but she would want us out on the streets marking the spots for tents to be set up. We will push on in her honor and always remember the incredible contributions she made to this event.

As great as the art is, the food available is not to be ignored. The options just get better every year and with so many outstanding food trucks these days, it is heaven on earth for a food guy like me. There is more than one choice for shaved ice, ice cream and popsicles. It is supposed to be warm so these should all taste good. One of my favorites is Let’s Do Greek. Fantastic food in true Greek style. Roasted corn is always at the top of my list and has me darting out of my office at least twice a day for a piece of corn loaded with butter and salt. I ask anyone who is part of my medical team to ignore the above paragraph and the one below.

Do not forget the simple things in life. I rarely eat hot dogs. Lisa does not eat them so if we purchase a package, it really goes to waste even in the freezer. I eat one and then do not crave another one for at least six months. Therefore, my treat at the Edmond Arts Festival is the stand that Othello’s sets up. It is a hot dog cart with all the fixings as they say and ice-cold beer. Nothing better than a once-a-year treat. Save room for it if you are a once every sixmonth hot dog person like me.

Yes, there will be some favorite fair kind of food including funnel cakes, corn dogs and Indian Tacos. Unlike days gone by, there are lots of healthier options folks. My plan is usually to go grab something from one of the food booths, enjoy it while visiting with friends, then make a bee line back to my office and wait until I get hungry again to repeat.

Hats off to this year’s co-chairs for the event, Michelle Schaefer and Nancy Meoli. Lots of arduous work goes into this event and these two put in the time away from their businesses to make a great event for everyone. Danny Marx is the one who makes sure we have plenty of food booths to pick from every year. Stage music and street music are taken care of by Alicia Vanderschaaf and Lynzi Carl-

Check out what’s inside!

“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.

ton. And of course, Stephanie Carel is there to do whatever no one else will do. She does so much for us downtown.

If you have not been downtown lately, you are in for quite a surprise. In addition to the arts festival, downtown Edmond now holds an array of restaurants, shops, and housing that is about to come online. I think you will be impressed and would encourage you to try them out. If you are looking for more comfortable seating, you can always take your food into Frenzy if you order some cold adult beverages and sit down to enjoy both.

Again, welcome to our little corner of the world here in downtown Edmond and we hope you see enough that will have you bring back the family to enjoy another time.

(Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Big News coming!

Watch our FB page for a big announcement later this week

Forgive me for being coy but there is a big announcement that we cannot make due to our deadlines. A longtime Edmond businesses will be reopening under another name. Because it still must pass two inspections after our deadline, they did not want me to make the announcement in case the opening is delayed.

Should they pass their two city inspections, we will announce the opening on our Facebook page. We have every reason to believe they will get over these last two hurdles but did want to disappoint folks should there be a hold up. Check our page Thursday afternoon or Friday. It is big folks!

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com

Partner Christopher T.

FILE PHOTO/MELINDA INFANTE

The Edmond Arts Festival is one of the more annual events.

(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.)

April 17

Debra Odessa Lewis, 52 of Edmond Leaving the scene of accident damaged fixtures and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Darriounta Dshawn Sanders, 24 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license, no proof of insurance and failure to appear.

Misael Andrew Quiroz, 34 of Tulsa. Felony warrant.

Chelsea Danielle Dake, 29 of Tulsa. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Taryan Nabond Prince-Sadler, 18 of Oklahoma City. Brought in by the postal service.

Elizabeth Ann Hungerford, 34, homeless, Trespassing after being warned.

April 18

John Christian Schwarz, 33 of Moore. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Phoenix Joshua Baird, 25 of Moore. Public intoxication.

T’Neatra Lasha Henderson, 34 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant.

Jennifer Joy Todd, 34, homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

April 19

Michael William Bailey, 40 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Charles Derek Hodges, 32 homeless. Trespassing after being warned and public intoxication.

Katherine Anne Dillion, 69 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

April 20

Peter Lai, 45 of Chicago. Operate (DUi or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Caleb Matthew Hatton, 32 of Edmond. Domestic abuse with a prior pattern of physical abuse.

Adison Adele Koonce, 26 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Charles Derek Hodges, 32 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Matthew Blake Jeffcoat, 33 of Amarillo, Texas. (Misdemeanor) uttering any forged, counterfeit, altered instrument, or counterfeit gold/silver coin and (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property.

Randal William Lonkerd, 36 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and non-assault resisting officer.

Mikal Stephen Hlebowicz, 28 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

April 21

Trinton Dion James, 33 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant, false representation to an officer and failure to appear.

Jose Edwin Fuentes-Dominguez, 39 of Oklahoma City. (Felony value) obtaining by false pretense, trick or deception.

Mitchal Shane Shatswell, 48 of Sayre, Okla. Felony warrant.

April 22

Karley Jean Sandy, 37 of Olathe, Kan. Obstruction of police officer.

Martin Renn Teuscher, 45 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Teresa Jean Ramirez, 31 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Gerald Oshay Gurley Jr., 22 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS, misdemeanor warrant, operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more and driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked.

Danny Dewayne McConnell, 40 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Tyler Stephen Davis, 28 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant and trespassing.

Howard Larnell Toyer Jr., 43 of Yukon. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.

Tiffani Jerica Bowers, 40 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant, three counts of failure to appear, shoplifting and public intoxication.

April 23

Clauice Ina Isom 36 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Payton Donovan Pleasant, 26 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Michael Alexander Barrett, 27 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Weekend calendar, May 4-7

What’s Happening This Weekend May 4-6

---- In the Gallery

---- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

---- UCO Design – The ADDY Winners Gallery

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

2020

Farmer’s Market ---- Edmond Bike Night

VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience ---- Edmond Jr. Rodeo

---- 45th Annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival ---- Yoga + Beer ---- Homeschool Day

---- Kids Take Over the Cowboy: ARToons

---- Signature Tour

---- Sunday Spotlight: Unstoppable

---- OKC Cinco de Mayo Festival

---- Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Shorts

---- Oklahoma Orchid Society’s Kicks on Route 66

Show & Sale ---- Red Brick Nights ---- Central 4D Barrel Racers ---- Cowboys of Color Rodeo ---- BikeFest

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Gallery Opening for May artist, Jack Fowler; Thu, May 4; 5 – 8 p.m.; Featuring the art of Jack Fowler; edmondfinearts.com

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

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

UCO Design – The ADDY Winners Gallery

Location: University of Central Oklahoma – UCO Nigh Center

Extra Info: Thu, Mar 30 – Fri, May 12; free; calendar.uco.edu

Unveiled: Edmond’s

Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020

Location: Edmond History Museum

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

UCO Jazz Lab Events in April

Location: University of Central Oklahoma

– UCO Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Thu, Apr 27: Jazz Ensembles I and IV @ 7 p.m.; $18; Fri, Apr 28: Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road @ 7 p.m.; $20; Sat, Apr 29: Miss Brown to You @ 8 p.m.; $15; ucojazzlab.com

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Thu, May 4; Free; 5 p.m.; facebook.com

VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience

Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Thu, May 4; Free; 6 – 9 p.m.; visitedmondok.com

Edmond Jr. Rodeo

Location: Edmond Round Up Club

– Carl Benne Arena

Extra Info: Fri, May 5 – Sat, May 6; Adults: $5 & 18 & younger: $1; Fri: 7 p.m.; Sat: 4 & 7 p.m.; facebook.com

45th Annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival

Location: Downtown Edmond

Extra Info: Fri, May 5 – Sun, May 7; Free; downtownedmondok.com

Yoga + Beer Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project

Extra Info: Sat, May 6; Free; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.;

americansolera.com

Homeschool Day

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Fri, May 5; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Kids Take Over the Cowboy: ARToons

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, May 6; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sun, May 7; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Sunday Spotlight: Unstoppable

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sun, May 7; 1 – 1:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

OKC Cinco de Mayo Festival

Location: Scissortail Park

Extra Info: Fri, May 5; 4 – 10 p.m.; facebook.com

Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Shorts

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Fri, May 5 – Sun, May 7; Fri & Sat: 7:30 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; okcballet.org

Oklahoma Orchid Society’s

Kicks on Route 66 Show & Sale

Location: Will Rogers Gardens Exhibition Center

Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sun, May 7; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okorchidsociety.org

Red Brick Nights Location: Oklahoma Ave & Wentz Ave, Guthrie, Extra Info: Sat, May 6; 5 – 11 p.m.; facebook.com

Central 4D Barrel Racers

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Sat, May 6 – Sun, May 7; central4d.com

Cowboys of Color Rodeo

Location: Oklahoma State Fairgrounds Arena

Extra Info: Sat, May 6; 7 – 10 p.m.; cowboysofcolorrodeo.com

BikeFest

Location: 1701 S Western Ave, OKC

Extra Info: Sun, May 7; 12 – 3 p.m.; acogok.org

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

MELINDA INFANTE

The Edmond Farmer’s Market is normally held each Saturday morning. It will not be held this week because of the Edmond Arts Festival, also being held in the Festival Marketplace.

Music comes alive in Edmond

By Jennifer Seaton

Tourism Director for Visit Edmond

Visitors and residents want to be entertained with a “second experience.” After attending an event (like a work conference, sports tournament, church outing or school function), it is nice to do something fun when it is over. Live music is one of the ways Edmond is enticing people to linger longer.

Many businesses are adding live music to their space. Restaurants like 3 Tequilas and Eddies feature singers and DJs to entertain guests. Retail stores are getting creative. For example, Silver Leaf Gems built a stage behind their shop for live entertainment. Hear musicians strut their stuff at UCO Jazz Lab and Armstrong Auditorium. Outdoor stages will come alive this summer at Hafer Park and Mitch Park.

The following local bars feature music on the weekends:

American Solera at the Icehouse Project

Frenzy Brewing Company

Moonlight KTV-Edmond Karaoke Bar

Round Midnight

Patriarch Craft Beer House

Music is a focal point during monthly downtown events like Heard on Hurd (3rd Saturdays March –October) and VIBES (1st Thursdays April – October). Musicians will also entertain guests throughout the Annual Arts Festival May 5-7 on three street corners and a main stage.

Live music adds ambiance and encourages folks to eat, drink and enjoy each other in a creative atmosphere. Find all of Edmond’s musical experiences at www.visitedmondok.com/events.

Want help to stop smoking? State offering assistance

The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline, a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), is offering Oklahomans who want to quit tobacco a special opportunity. Beginning now, Oklahomans who sign up for the Helpline will get at least eight weeks of patches, gum or lozenges for free. This limited time offer of extra nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) runs through June 30.

The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline offers Oklahomans the opportunity to quit with free, personalized help. With services including text, phone and web Coaching and support, patches, gum, lozenges and more, the Helpline gives all Oklahomans the tools to live tobacco free.

“We know that NRT is an important tool for those making a quit attempt,” said Paola Klein, interim operations director of the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline. “I’m pleased that

the Helpline is able to provide these additional weeks of NRT to all Oklahomans at no cost.”

The Helpline has traditionally offered at least two weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy. By building a plan to quit with the Helpline and fighting cravings with the NRT options provided, Oklahomans can double their chances of successfully quitting tobacco. TSET has funded the Helpline since 2003, and in that time, more than 490,000 Oklahomans have signed up to receive services and build a plan that serves their needs.

Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800784-8669), text READY to 34191 or visit OKhelpline.com to explore the free services and resources available to Oklahomans. You can also connect with the Helpline through Facebook or by following @OKhelpline on Twitter and Instagram.

House OKs bill which would employees on maternity leave

Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City, on Tuesday passed legislation in the Oklahoma House of Representatives to provide six weeks of paid maternity leave for full-time state employees following the birth or adoption of a child.

Under Senate Bill 193, mothers must be full-time state employees for at least two years before being eligible for the leave, which could be used for the birth or adoption of a child. Employees would not be required to use their accrued leave for the initial six-week period but would have the option to use such leave for any additional time off for up to 12 weeks as required under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

"Ultimately, this bill would save the state of Oklahoma millions every year," Archer said. "The goal is to help state agencies recruit and retain talented Oklahomans who provide services to our communities. This is a workforce issue. As the largest employer in the state, Oklahoma should be the leader in supporting mothers and families."

According to the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, employee turnover cost the state over $100 million in 2021.

SB193 passed the House 70 – 21 with its title struck. It now returns to the Senate before being sent to the governor for his consideration of signing it into law.

Edmond family has papal audience with Pope Francis

Nobody is ever going to accuse Cheryl Gumerson of Edmond of having a dull life. Her four children, and their successful activities, keep her busy. But she is involved in other endeavors as well. One of those was a recent papal audience in Rome with Pope Francis.

On April 21 she was given a papal audience with the spiritual head of over a billion Catholics worldwide. This was her second time to meet a pope. She had also met Pope Francis’s predecessor, the late-Pope Benedict. She was in Rome to sight see and visit two young Oklahoma men — studying for the priesthood.

She admitted the meeting with Pope Francis was a quick exchange. However, it was her granddaughter, Brielle, who seemed to bring a special joy to the face of the pontiff.

“He smiled and gave her a special blessing,” Cheryl said.

She added that it’s just now that

Brielle, six, is becoming aware of what an honor it was to have met the pope.

“She had said that it was the pope that met her, now I think she’s starting to know how truly special it is.”

May is becoming a busy month for the family, who attend Edmond’s Saint Monica’s Catholic parish. She has twin teenage sons, Kedon and Greiner, who will graduate this month from Mount Saint Mary Catholic High School in Oklahoma City.

STEVE GUST

Cheryl Gumerson meets Pope Francis.

The Holy Father says hello to Cheryl’s granddaughter, Brielle, seen with her mother, Leitner.

By Steve Gust

Maybe it’s time for the metro to dream a bit.

I was watching some of the XFL football playoffs over the weekend.

Maybe Oklahoma should have a team if the XFL ever decides to expand the number of teams from its current eight. I understand they’ve already committed to a 2024 season.

In case you haven’t been following the XFL, the professional football league is about ready to end the first year of its third attempt to play football. It first started in 2001 and then stopped after one season of play. They tried again in 2020, but as we all remember, the league suspended in the middle of the season because of the pandemic.

It didn’t look like it was coming back until Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson helped to buy the league. They retooled it for this season.

And they appeared to have some success. The Saint Louis franchise averaged more than 30,000 fans at the home games. Two of the league’s eight teams are meeting in the championship on May 13. Bob Stoops is coaching one of the clubs, the Arlington Renegades.

All of this has me thinking about get-

ting a team around here. Having an XFL team around these parts might not be a bad idea. But putting them at Owen Field in Norman, wouldn’t be a good idea. There’s not much chance the new team would play before a packed house and a vacant stadium is not a good look. A new team just isn’t going to draw 90,000 souls.

But that wouldn’t be the case if they played at UCO. We might need Chad Richison to help expand the stadium whichn also has his name on it. Maybe 5,000 or 10,000 more seats might do. You’d think Oklahoma could put 10,000 or 25,000 people in the stands.

If there was an appetite for professional football here, an XFL franchise, would be a good barometer.

If 80,000 or 90,000 folks showed up for five home games, the NFL might give the state consideration if they ever expanded. If not a new sport in Edmond would still be a boost for restaurants and other businesses.

Or the XFL could take off, and the team might be forced to move to Owen Field after all. We’d have national television exposure, which could be a plus.

A new team is a good idea. The chances of it happening probably aren’t real good, but it’s still a good idea.

will help

special needs students

The House this week unanimously passed a bill that will open Oklahoma Promise scholarships to students with intellectual disabilities.

Senate Bill 322 creates the Oklahoma Higher Education Tuition Aid Act - Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Trust Fund to provide students with intellectual disabilities tuition grants for attending comprehensive transition and postsecondary programs. The measure details financial and academic eligibility and authorizes the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to administer the program.

Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, is the House author of the measure.

"I want every student to be able to achieve the highest level of education they desire," McBride said. "I'm thrilled to give students with intellectual disabilities the same opportunity as their peers to apply for this funding. I'm also very proud of the bipartisan effort that strengthened this bill and earned it's passage in the House."

Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, co-authored the bill and presented it on the House floor.

"Senate Bill 322 is an excellent example of not only bipartisan legislation but also cooperative work between the House and Senate," Hefner said. "This bill marries two great pieces of legislation – House Bill 2718, the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Trust Fund and the Oklahoma Promise Opportunity Scholarship Act, and Senate Bill 322, the Oklahoma Higher Education Tuition Aid Act - Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Trust Fund. Senate Bill 322 levels the playing field for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing them the same opportunities as their peers to fund attendance at one of our three state universities that have a program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities or to fund attendance at one of our great Career Tech programs. I am appreciative to Rep. McBride and Senator Seifried for coming together to create this important legislation for Oklahoma students."

Oklahoma’s Promise, originally designated as the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program, was created by the Legislature in 1992 to help students who meet certain income, academic and conduct requirements to earn a college or technology center tuition scholarship. The program is administered by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

SB 322 was amended in the House, so it now moves back to the state Senate for further consideration. Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, is the principal Senate author of the bill.

——

Sen. Blake Stephens, R-Tahlequah, received Senate approval Wednesday for House Bill 2684, which establishes fines for those who endanger emergency workers by failing to slow down or move over for stopped emergency vehicles. The fine schedule is based on the structure of current state laws and penalties for exceeding the speed limit in a construction zone.

“Too often, our police officers, firefighters, paramedics, tow truck operators and other responders are put in harm’s way while responding to emergencies on Oklahoma’s roadways,” Stephens said. “We want to ensure they can do their job safely, and by drivers slowing down and being more attentive, we hope to see less accidents, injuries and deaths of our selfless first responders.”

State studying teacher pay raises

By Rep. Collin Duel

The House knows a good education is the key to future success, so we've been focused on passing an education plan that benefits every student, every parent, every teacher and every school district in the state.

Last week, Gov. Stitt announced his education plan. After carefully reviewing every facet of the Governor's proposal, the House Republican Caucus overwhelmingly approved it this week and signed the bills out of conference.

Now, the plan heads to the Senate. We are encouraging the Senate to pass these bills out of conference quickly so each body can vote on them, and we can dedicate more attention to other policy topics important to Oklahomans, such as tax relief and economic development.

The Governor's proposed plan combines elements from both chambers' education plans. It funds public schools across the state, gives every

teacher a pay raise and provides parents with a tax credit to send their children to the school of their choice.

House Bill 2775 and Senate Bill 561 both raise teacher pay. HB2775 appropriates $300 million to the funding formula to be used for teacher pay increases. SB561 gives classroom teachers a pay raise based on years of experience. It goes as the following:

1. 0-4 years: $2,000

2. 5-9 years: $3,000

3. 10-14 years: $4,000

4. 15-25 years: $5,000

Under the proposed plan, all teachers will receive their full salary increase regardless if their current pay is above the salary schedule. It's time we deliver on raising teacher pay.

House Bill 2775 would fund public schools across Oklahoma. It is available to every school district in the state, with a $2 million per district

cap, to use toward qualifying expenses, including additional salary increases, support services and various programs.

Oklahomans across the state want improved education funding and outcomes for their kids, including additional parental choice options, which is what House Bill 1935 provides.

The Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit Act, HB1935, would provide $5,000 per student, prioritizing households earning under $250,000 annually, with a cap of $200 million total spend for Year One. The amount available would be increased to $6,000 per student with a cap of $200 million total spend for Year Two. Starting in Year Three, the amount available would increase to $6,500 per student, with no income cap and no cap on total spend.

HB1935 includes a $1,000 tax credit per student educated by other means. Under the measure, qualified expenses include tuition and fees to a private school or nonpublic online learning program, tutoring services, instructional materials, college admission tests, advanced placement exams and concurrent enrollment.

It is my hope that we can get these bills across the finish line and improve education for every Oklahoman student.

I am thankful and honored that the constituents of House District 31 have entrusted me with the responsibility of serving in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any concerns at 405-557-7350 or collin.duel@okhouse.gov.

Rep. Collin Duel, a Republican, serves District 31 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which covers Logan and Oklahoma counties.

New UCO Symphony Orchestra conductor named

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Fine Arts and Design has appointed artist-in-residence Alexander Mickelthwate as conductor of the UCO Symphony Orchestra. A formal announcement took place at the First Americans Museum located in Oklahoma City, April 28.

In his new role, Mickelthwate will teach orchestral conducting students and assist in recruiting efforts for the UCO School of Music. He will also continue to serve as the music director and conductor for the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.

“Since Mickelthwate joined the university, the program has received more applications than any year since I started back in 2009,” said Rob Glaub-

itz, director of the UCO School of Music.

“This is an amazing opportunity for our students to connect with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic in a variety of ways including internships. This experience is going to help illuminate Central’s orchestra.”

Additionally, Mickelthwate plans to advance efforts in incorporating Indigenous cultures within the UCO School of Music.

“I want to create a pipeline to find younger Native American artists or composers and give them the possibility and opportunity to study music at UCO,” Mickelthwate said.

“I want to help create and build those connec-

tions, because I love giving back to students and the next generation.”

The UCO School of Music will designate $10,000 each year toward the newly established First Americans Music Scholarship, which is available to undergraduate and graduate students who are a part of one of the 39 tribal nations of Oklahoma and actively involved in musical activities at Central.

To learn more about the UCO School of Music, visit music.uco.edu.

To learn more about the First Americans Music Scholarship, visit centralconnection.org/scholarships.

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Fine Arts and Design has appointed artist-in-residence Alexander Mickelthwate, pictured, as conductor of the UCO Symphony Orchestra. In his new role, Mickelthwate will teach orchestral conducting students and assist in recruiting ef forts for the UCO School of Music.

UCO student takes top honors at national contest

University of Central Oklahoma student Melissa Rosenfelt, a graduate student in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program from Shawnee, Oklahoma, took top honors at the 15th annual L. Frances P. Liddell Student Policy Debate — part of the Conference of Minority Public Administrators (COMPA).

The theme for this year’s conference, “Unmasking the Complexities of Identity, Place and Space: The Public Administrators’ Challenge,” calls to all public servants who seek to unmask, study and en-

gage in discussions surrounding complex problems and topics in the form of identity, place and space. The policy debate seeks to develop and strengthen the abilities and qualities of public administrators, including speaking competence, ethics and confidence on public policy issues. Rosenfelt spoke on topics surrounding sanctions, economic principles and Indigenous peoples.

“The policy debate offers students the opportunity to defend and present their positions on current public policy issues with well-reasoned and sound arguments,” said Elizabeth Overman, Ph.D., professor of political science at Central.

“Melissa excelled and competed against Ph.D. students from the University of Illinois, Rutgers University and the University of Baltimore.”

Rosenfelt is an Indigenous, independent journalist and an enrolled member of the Seminole Nation of Okla-

homa. She currently serves as president of Pi Alpha Alpha (PAA), the national honor society for students of public administration.

The UCO MPA is a 36-credit hour program that can be completed in as little as two years, when attended full time. Part-time options are available, as well.

The UCO MPA is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). The program offers flexibility for working adults with night and weekend classes at the Edmond campus and downtown Oklahoma City locations, as well as a fully online program. MPA graduates work in all levels of government — city, country, state and federal — as well as in nonprofit organizations, the military, indigenous and tribal nations and the private sector.

For more information about the UCO MPA program, visit uco.edu/cla/departments/political-science/mpa/.

Melissa Rosenfelt

Exploring more of state’s tribal history

Elaine Warner

Let’s start with a bit of history. With Indian Removal in the early 1800s, tribes were assigned areas in what would become the state of Oklahoma. The five “Civilized Tribes,” Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole, occupied almost the entire area with two exceptions. The Quapaw and Seneca tribes were assigned small portions of the northeastern corner. The panhandle still belonged to Mexico.

The Creek and Seminole tribes were given a large swath of central Oklahoma stretching from near Fort Gibson to the western border. Following the Civil War, some of the Creek/Seminole section was ceded to the Sac and Fox, Potawatomi, Shawnee and Kickapoo peoples.

Boundaries shifted, tribal territories shrank, and settlement kept encroaching. By the 1890s, the Indians, although named possessors of territory, were pretty much kicked to the curb. The most obvious remnants of their occupation were the names given to counties, towns, and streets: Pottawatomie County, Shawnee, and one of Shawnee’s main streets, Kickapoo.

While both the Citizen Potawatomi and the Absentee Shawnee nations have tribal headquarters in Shawnee, the influence of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation is most obvious to visitors.

As a writer, the difference in spelling between the county and the Nation bothered me. Blake Norton, Director of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center, explained, “Both spellings are phonetic, but Potawatomi is closest to the real word. And the Cultural Heritage Center is where you should begin your exploration.

A discriminating choice of artifacts, gorgeous graphics and interesting interactive elements are thoughtfully organized to help visitors understand both the cultural heritage of the Nation and the historical influences on and by its people. The narrative begins with their foundation story and tribal legends. The tribe originated in what is now Maine and eastern Canada, then migrated to the Great Lakes region.

The first of several large displays depicts Potawatomi women working with rice. Wild rice was considered sacred and served not only as nourishing food but was used as medicine and in ceremonies. Potawatomi bands remaining in the Great Lakes area have preserved many of these traditional customs.

The Citizen Potawatomi are one of seven Potawatomi bands recognized in the U.S. There are two other First Nations recognized in Canada. The Citizen Potawatomi’s own designation for themselves is Zhishibéni or Duck People.

Exhibits take visitors through Potawatomi traditions, interactions with other tribes and the coming of Europeans. You’ll review a lot of American history – and a lot of history you didn’t know.

Tribal history takes a darker turn with the era of Indian removals. In spite of good relations, even intermarriages with Europeans, the Potawatomi were not spared Andrew Jackson’s harsh policies. A council to discuss removal was called by the government. When tribal leaders arrived, they were arrested and put in shackles. The army scoured the nearby forests to round up tribal members who sought to resist. This was the beginning of the best-documented Potawatomi removal, known as the Trail of Death.

Eight-hundred and fifty-nine Native Americans were forced marched from their northern Indiana homes to Kansas. One of the most touching displays in the museum is a wall of moccasins created by members of the Potawatomi community. Each pair represents ten of the participants on the Trail.

To really appreciate all the museum has to offer, plan to spend at least and hour – I spent two and could have spent more time there.

Also in this area of town, you’ll find the tribe’s FireLake Casino and FireLlake Golf Course. If you’re hungry, both the Casino and the golf course have sandwiches and a small shop near the casino has nishnabe tacos. That name, rather than Indian tacos, is a whole ‘nother story.

The other do-not-miss Potawatomi project is the Grand Casino Resort. Jack and I spent the night at the Casino hotel – an attractive and comfortable stay. The staff members who checked us in couldn’t have been more welcoming. They answered my myriad questions patiently – by the time we checked out the next day, I felt like I’d made new friends.

Greg Cox, Player Development Manager, took me on a tour of the resort. The largest area is, of course, the casino. There are 1,450 electronic

games and more than 30 table games but the floor does not feel crowded. Players can play machines with pennies or play higher stake machines up to $100 dollars. A tour of the casino is worthwhile whether you are a gamer or not. The video screen above the food court on the first floor is worth seeing.

Options in the food court include Mexican and Italian dishes, ramen, barbecue, coffee and sweets. Self-serve stations offer free ice cream, soft drinks, coffee, and tea. On the second floor the Fire and Ice Bar serves alcoholic beverages. Nearby, a lounge features live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

A concert venue hosts larger concerts. The Foreigner concert, April 29, has been sold out for months. The conference space serves a double purpose. In addition to hosting meetings and events, the area is constructed as a storm shelter designed to keep guests safe even during an F-5 tornado.

Other amenities include a full-service spa – I got to enjoy a great massage – and a roof-top pool. Golf packages for FireLake Golf Course are available.

Diners have several options besides the food court on the gaming floor. The Grandstand Sports Bar with lots of TVs for fans serves casual favorites. The Grand Café is quieter and serves an excellent breakfast at an amazingly reasonable price. My chicken avocado sandwich for lunch really hit the spot. Flame Brazilian Steakhouse is open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday. The décor is sophisticated and the salad bar includes such exotic items as fresh oysters.

There are more than 130 casinos and over 80,000 slot machines in Oklahoma. I asked Greg Cox what made the Grand Casino stand out. He replied, “Good enough isn’t good enough. We’ve got to be better. We hire good people. The personal connection is primary. We out-people the other casinos.”

Displays at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center focus on traditions, history and skills of the Potawatomi people.

Elaine

The Grand Casino Hotel and Resort is situated on I-40 a few miles west of Shawnee.

Machines in the casino are generously spaced for comfort.

New Disney offering falls a tad flat

By George Gust

Based on J. M. Barrie’s novel, “Peter Pan & Wendy” also draws inspiration from the 1953 Disney animated classic. On the eve of her leaving for boarding school, Wendy (Ever Anderson) travels with her two younger brothers to the magical world of Neverland. There she meets a boy who refused to grow up (Alexander Molony), a tiny fairy (Yara Shahidi) and an evil pirate captain (Jude Law).

“Peter Pan & Wendy” is the latest in Disney’s ongoing mission to recreate all the most iconic animated films of their celebrated catalogue. Some of these nostalgia-fueled live-action remakes feel like a fun yet unnecessary update to the iconic originals, like “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Jungle Book” while others are not only unnecessary, but also missing the basic parts that made the originals so beloved (see the new “Lion King” and most recently “Pinocchio”). “Peter Pan & Wendy” is ultimately somewhere closer to the more successful rehashes, but some of the filmmaker’s choices take the story in a direction too far away from the magic of the original.

The visual styling of “Peter Pan & Wendy” are beautifully realized by director David Lowery with a grounded realism that features sweeping vistas of

the magical world of Neverland. However, this emphasis on the realistic deflates the magic that you would except from entering fantastical world filled with pirates, mermaids and lost boys. The result of these realistic choices results in a beautifully appointed Scottish seaside filling the place of Neverland, but it doesn’t feel like the storybook magical world that you may be expecting from the original animated film.

While the film is title “Peter Pan & Wendy” the story centers more so on Wendy and Captain Hook with Peter taking a back seat. Molony in the titular role is serviceable in what the script asked him to

do, but the more emotional and resonant roles here were given to Wendy and Hook. Anderson is phenomenal in the role and brings a complexity to this pivotal time in Wendy’s life where she’s not sure about the future of growing up but sees the flaws in staying stuck in Peter’s view of childhood. And Law as Hook is able to bring more empathy than previous editions of the character for this updated interpretation, while still relishing every opportunity to play to the cheap seats in a cartoonish manner.

“Peter Pan & Wendy” has plenty of style and good ideas, but the overall feel of the movie falls somewhat flat when compared to the original film. It’s a tough task to demand that the movie magic of the original animated film that people have grown up with, but with the nostalgia mining going on at Disney it’s hard not to compare the two with “Peter Pan & Wendy” coming in decidedly lesser than.

“Peter Pan & Wendy” is rated PG for violence, peril and thematic elements. Now streaming on Disney+

2.6 out of 5 stars

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

Answers on Page 19

Riversport to host racers

RIVERSPORT will host rowing clubs from Arkansas, Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas for racing, district championships and the opportunity to qualify for the USRowing National Youth Championship. The event is expected to bring over 1400 junior rowers plus parents and coaches to downtown Oklahoma City’s Boathouse District.

The same weekend, RIVERSPORT will host runners in the Red Bull Wings for Life World Run, a fundraiser benefiting the Wings for Life Foundation as it works to find a cure for spinal cord injury.

Spectators are invited to attend the racing at the RIVERSPORT's Finish Line Tower or along the Oklahoma River's 2000m race course. In addition, food trucks, beverages and merchandise will be available for purchase.

USRowing Central Youth Championships racing will be held on the Oklahoma River on Saturday, May 7, 7:30a5:30p and Sunday, May 8, 7:30a - 3:45p.

https://www.riversportokc.org/events/usrowing-central-youth-row ing-championship/ The Red Bull run begins at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday.

Crossword Puzzle

Answers on Page 19

PHOTO

‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ hits Disney+ streaming as the new live action interpretation of the beloved Disney classic ‘Peter Pan.’

Ron Jackson

Oklahoma historian to present program at Arcadia Round Barn

ARCADIA – Cowboy Jack Abernathy was a bit of a local legend in Oklahoma Territory, and for a good reason. Abernathy could catch wolves with his bare hands. Author Ron J. Jackson Jr. will visit the Arcadia Round Barn on Saturday, May 20, to tell the story of the wolf hunt that President Theodore Roosevelt organized after hearing about Abernathy’s unique talent.

“President Roosevelt initially passed if off as a tall tale,” said Jackson, who lives in Rocky in western Oklahoma and is a regular contributor to Wild West magazine. “A friend insisted the stories were true, and Roosevelt organized a private wolf hunt near the town of Frederick in the Big Pasture, a 480,000-acre reserve of open prairie.”

Comanche Chief Quanah Parker was among those invited to join the 1905 hunting party, “and Abernathy didn’t disappoint,” Jackson said.

Jackson will present the free program at 1 p.m. in the loft of the Round Barn, which was built in 1898 and restored by volunteer carpenters before opening in 1992 as a nonprofit historical museum. Donations will be accepted for the ongoing maintenance of the barn, which is owned and operated by the Arcadia Historical and Preservation Society.

Jackson is an award-winning journalist who has been writing professionally for 38 years. He is the author of numerous books, including “Joe, the Slave Who Became an Alamo Legend,” winner of the Award of

Merit for nonfiction from The Philosophical Society of Texas; “Bebes and the Bear: Gene Stallings, Coach Bryant and Their 1968 Cotton Bowl Showdown,” and” Fight to the Finish: Gentleman Jim Corbett, Joe Choynski, and the Fight that Launched Boxing’s Modern Era.”

A California native, Jackson began a sports writing career at age 18 and switched to the news desk shortly after joining The Oklahoman in 1996. He has been a freelance writer for the past 13 years.

Jackson’s passion for American Western history took root when he signed his first book contract at age 27 to pen “Alamo Legacy: Alamo Descendants Remember the Alamo,” a 1997 release that led to other literary adventures from the Mississippi River to the historic haunts of San Francisco.

For Wild West magazine, Jackson has brought to life stories on such Western icons as Geronimo, Cheyenne Chief Black Kettle and Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer. He is a member of the Western Writers of America and has served as a consultant for History Channel.

Jackson’s presentation will follow a free concert by the Round Barn Ramblers, an acoustic Americana band led by Joe Baxter that performs at the barn every Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information about live music and other programming, go to the Arcadia Round Barn website and Facebook page.

OMRF seeking applications for annual Teen Leader class

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation is seeking applications for its 2023-24 Teen Leaders class. Applications are due May 15.

Now in its 11th year, the program is open to high school students entering sophomore, junior and senior years.

OMRF’s Teen Leaders program provides group activities, panel discussions with foundation scientists and state civic leaders, and new in 2023, more time in the foundation’s labs.

Students leave with the leadership skills and tools to be change-makers in their communities. They also learn how to become advocates for medical research and improving human health.

“Nearly 400 of Oklahoma’s young leaders have passed through our doors as Teen Leaders,” said OMRF Development Director Caroline Allen, who coordinates the program. “In re-

sponse to their feedback, we’ve updated the sessions to include more time with our scientists. We hope that with even more access to realworld research, they’ll be inspired to become greater advocates for medical research.”

Selected students also learn the fundamentals of nonprofit fundraising and development, board structure, networking and creating impactful social media content. Teens also work together on a special event to cap off program activities each spring.

Group sessions will begin in September and continue through the 2023-24 school year, generally on the second Tuesday of each month. Applicants must demonstrate good academic standing and attend school in Oklahoma. There is no cost to participate.

State responds to needs of those gravely disabled

The full Senate approved House Bill 2746 last week. The bill, by Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City, creates a strict set of criteria by which the guardian of a person with a grave disability would be able to access secure transport to get their family member to the care they need.

“I would like to recognize the tireless effort of Sarah Smith, a wonderful advocate who has pushed this bill through the process,” Kirt said. “Sarah advocates on behalf of her sister Courtney. Her story has helped me

and my fellow legislators to understand the value of giving families all the legal resources they need to ensure their family members with schizophrenia or other serious mental illnesses can access the medical care they need.”

HB 2746 is supported by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

“People experiencing serious mental illness often experience homelessness too. This bill recognizes that many unsheltered people have loved ones who want to help them access the resources they need,” Kirt said. “While we work to decriminalize living without shelter, we must expand the services available for people as they need treatment and housing. This bill

takes us another step closer to the kind of community where we are fully equipped to help each other through the toughest times.”

Rep. Nicole Miller, REdmond, is the House principal author, and said the measure next moves to the governor’s desk.

“House Bill 2746 would ensure that gravely disabled Oklahomans going through a mental health crisis are directed to an inpatient treatment facility if they're not currently capable of taking care of their basic personal needs. I've been working on this bill with a constituent, Sarah Smith, since 2021, and we ultimately decided to name the bill after her sister, Courtney Smith. I am so delighted to see it

Some of the plants offered at Edmond’s weekly Farmer’s Market.

AAA expects busy air travel

We’re less than a month away from the Memorial Day holiday and the unofficial kickoff to what could be a very busy summer for travel. On top of AAA reporting a significant increase in international travel bookings this year (up 200% compared to 2022), the TSA is now warning travelers that summer airline passenger levels are expected to be “comfortably above” pre-pandemic numbers. Despite airline ticket prices running 20 to 30% higher than 2022, Delta Airlines reports a record number of advance bookings for summer travel.

Will Memorial Day holiday weekend travel be above the pre-pandemic numbers of 2019? AAA’s official holiday forecast numbers won’t be out for a few more weeks, but the auto club is warning travelers to prepare for busy roads, rails and skies this summer.

“No surprise, for travelers who want the best choice of options for their vacation, now is the best time to book a summer trip,” says Rylie Mansuetti, Public and Government Affairs Manager for AAA Oklahoma. “Waiting too long could mean sold-out cruises or tours and limited availability for hotel rooms.”

That’s not to say there aren’t opportunities to save money for those who have flexible schedules and aren’t set on a certain destination. AAA travel data from 2022 showed that people who booked closer to their departure date paid less, and there’s a good chance travelers could find last-minute deals again this summer if they don’t mind flying on off-peak days and hours.

10 things for travelers to think about while planning and flying this summer:

When booking, aim for the first morning flight. It’s more likely to depart on time because mornings have less air traffic congestion and fewer weather delays, especially in the summer. Early flights also give you more flexibility if there is a delay or cancelation and you need to reschedule.

Reserve airport parking ahead of time to save time on your departure day.

With the TSA projecting pre-pandemic numbers this summer, it’s key to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours before international flights. Remember, international hubs will be extra packed with passengers this season.

Sign up for TSA PreCheck® or Clear to speed up the security process. AAA Mid-Atlantic locations regularly host pop-up TSA Pre-Check® Sign up events. You can check here for an upcoming event near you.

Avoid checking a bag. Carry-on luggage allows you to be more flexible if there’s a delay or cance-

Media student honored

University of Central Oklahoma student Alexander Taylor, a junior professional media major from Oklahoma City, recently received the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) Student Scholars Program Scholarship. Only 150 undergraduate and graduate students nationwide were selected.

Taylor

The scholarship gives students an opportunity to attend the Broadcast Education Association (BEA) and National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) conventions in Las Vegas, as well as meet with top executives in the radio industry.

“Alex is an extremely creative student,” said David Nelson, Ed.D., professor of mass communication at Central.

“He loves podcasting, radio and anything audio related, which makes him a perfect match for this scholarship.”

Taylor’s accolades stretch beyond this achievement.

Outside of UCO, he interviews creatives, performers and artists in Oklahoma, creating a platform for talented individuals, as well as discuss trending topics happening around the world.

In addition to the mix of content creation, podcasting, management, programming, sales and marketing, advertising and research sessions, RAB student scholars will have the chance to participate in programs designed specifically for students and recent graduates. Industry recruiters will be present during the program’s career day.

To learn more about the UCO Department of Mass Communication, visit uco.edu/cla/departments/masscommunication/.

For more information about the RAB scholarship, visit www.beaweb.org/wp/rab/.

City marks National Bike Month

Events throughout May will focus on the many ways riding your bicycle can make a difference

As spring rolls around, it’s a great time to get rolling yourself.

May is National Bike Month, and it’s a fantastic time to take advantage of the bike-friendly trails, routes and roads all around Edmond.

Bicycling is a wonderful way to stay healthy and it has the added benefits of supporting sustainability while cashing in on economic savings.

The City of Edmond embraces the benefits of biking, committing to developing even more ways to safely ride around our community. The hope is by investing in and promoting the idea of providing ways for residents and visitors to bike more often, to bike to more places, and to feel safe while doing will put a spotlight on the benefits of riding a bicycle. Whether for transportation, physical activity or recreational pur-

poses, riding your bike can help us all in terms of staying fit, avoiding traffic delays, saving money, enhancing quality of life and sustainability.

To promote May Bike Month, the Edmond Bicycle Committee and friends of bicycling are organizing numerous events through the month of May, and encourage your support and participation:

May 7 – BikeFest by ACOG, 12-3 p.m., Wheeler District Ferris Wheel, 1701 S. Western, Oklahoma City.

May 8 – City Council proclamation for Bike Month, 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 20 S. Littler.

May 13 – Cycle 66 Training Ride, 8 a.m., Edmond Municipal Library/Shannon Miller Park, 10 S. Boulevard.

May 13 – Mountain Bike Ride, 2 p.m., Arcadia Lake, Post Rd. Parking Lot, Led by OEF-Edmond.

May 16 – Oklahoma Bicycle Society casual ride, 6:15 p.m. leaving from the parking lot west of Target.

lation.

Make sure your phone is fully charged. Download the airline’s app to receive notifications and use FlightAware to track your aircraft the day of departure.

Know your passenger rights. Read the airline’s “Condition of Carriage” online to understand how you are protected in case of delays, cancelations, and misconnections.

Have your confirmation number or record locator handy, in case there’s a delay or cancelation and you need to rebook quickly. If you’re trying to reach the airline by phone, try their international numbers or rewards numbers, which can sometimes answer faster.

BC Clark will once again

‘Pay it Momward’ event

Oklahoma City metro moms, get ready for Pay It Momward! Now through Mother’s Day, BC Clark is once again dropping jewelry gifts for moms all across the metro.

Beginning Friday, May 5, the BC Clark team will randomly leave wrapped gift boxes containing jewelry from their store in plain sight for anyone to have a chance at finding. Keep an eye on Oklahoma’s leading jeweler’s social media channels for posts teasing each drop’s location.

“If you find one of our signature BC Clark gift boxes and you are a mom, keep it! If not, we hope you Pay it Momward and give the gift to a special mom in your life,” said Mitchell Clark, executive vice president of BC Clark.

Pay it Momward has become a Mother’s Day beloved tradition in the Oklahoma City area since it started 14 years ago.

Fifteen gifts valued at nearly $5,000 will be dropped during Pay it

Momward, which ends with a final gift on Mother’s Day. In addition to the gift, each recipient may also select a local charity or church, and BC Clark will donate $250 on their behalf.

“Pay It Momward is our way of saying ‘Thanks’ for everything moms do,’” Clark said. “Mothers do so much to keep families strong - nurturing, teaching, planning, and keeping everyone happy and healthy. They deserve an extra surprise.”

Pay it Momward is a unique and interactive social media-driven public event. Updates will be posted on BC Clark’s social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram and TikTok –@bcclarkjewelers. Follow along with #PayItMomward! Anyone is invited to join the fun.

As in previous years, BC Clark invites gift recipients to share their stories at PayItMomward.com.

For more information, contact Mitchell Clark at mitchell@bcclark.com.

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Shoe

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Beetle Baily

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BC Clark is once again dropping jewelry gifts for moms all across the metro.

Food bank responds to twister-related disaster

The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma continues to provide emergency assistance to communities impacted by severe weather on April 19.

“The Regional Food Bank is often among the first to respond following a disaster like the tornadoes that impacted both Pottawatomie and McClain counties last week,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. “With each disaster, we collaborate with other nonprofits and community entities along with our network of partners to ensure both emergency needs are met and needs are identified during short- and long-term recovery efforts.

“For the communities impacted last week, we have been making daily deliveries of food, water and other assistance as requested and will continue to do so until the need is met,” Dykstra added.

As of April 27, the Regional Food Bank has delivered more than 6,000 boxes of food including ready-to-eat items and shelf stable food and nearly 4,800 cases of bottled water to the Shawnee area. The organization has also provided a refrigerated, 53-foot trailer to Community Renewal for use at the Oklahoma Baptist University Green Campus disaster relief and volunteer center and a second trailer to the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief to support their feeding operations throughout the area. The day after the storms, the Regional Food Bank delivered three generators to the Community Market of Pottawatomie County to use until power was restored.

In McClain County, first responders requested ice for the Cole community and the Regional Food Bank delivered more than 300 bags of ice in the days following the storm and has since also deliv-

ered multiple pallets and cases of shelf stable food.

The Regional Food Bank is a long-standing member of the Oklahoma Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (OKVOAD). Together with other OKVOAD members, the Regional Food Bank works to mitigate and alleviate the impact of disasters through an effective delivery of services to affected communities.

“Through OK-VOAD and as part of the Feeding America network of food banks, the Regional Food Bank is able to provide the resources to help communities with immediate access to food and water and other resources,” Dykstra said. “Working with

fellow VOAD members and our partners in affected communities, we strive to provide the type of aid that helps lessen the burden of our neighbors.

“I am so proud of our staff who have stepped up to ensure we are responding as quickly as possible and delivering the needed resources,” Dykstra added.

In Pottawatomie County, residents impacted by the April 19 severe weather should contact the United Way of Pottawatomie County, the American Red Cross or call 2-1-1. In McClain County, residents impacted should contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-Red Cross.