FOUR SEASONS
Four Seasons, by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. For more information, see page 4.
A Character First winner who is always on time. See Page 9
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13 Sunny High 70° Low 45°
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14
Mostly Sunny High 66° Low 43°
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15 Sunny High 66° Low 42°
Dorothy’s talking tree, from the film classic ‘Wizard of Oz’ is now in Downtown Edmond. The City of Edmond’s Urban Forestry has crafted the scarecrow. The Mario Brothers, of Nintendo fame, are part of the Manning Law office. The public is invited to come see them as well as dozens of other entries in Downtown Edmond.
The Downtown Edmond Business Association will be hosting their annual scarecrow decorating contest this October. Members of DEBA were each given a scarecrow and asked to decorate it and display it to help welcome Fall in to Downtown Edmond.
“We feel this is a fun way to attract people to downtown Edmond
to see the scarecrows while bringing some fall cheer to the streets. Everyone has been excited to participate again and the scarecrows are even more creative this year”, DEBA Executive Director Stephanie Carel said.
The public will vote via social media with a first, second and third place winner announced. Scarecrow
contest will run until October 5th through October 31st. Please visit Downtown Edmond on Facebook to vote for your favorite scarecrow. Be sure to “like” your favorite scarecrow on the original post created by Downtown Edmond. We invite you all to come down and check them out in person.
Diana Steele of Edmond was an elementary school teacher for 25 years. But now, instead of teaching children, she is preaching the importance of regular mammograms to anyone who will listen.
“I stay on top of my health and that includes annual mammograms. I’ve never missed one,” says Steele. “So it came as quite a surprise in March of 2022 when they told me I would need to get a diagnostic mammogram as well.”
She was referred to the INTEGRIS Health Comprehensive Breast Center for a closer look. “I could tell they were measuring something,” she admits. “They told me there was a small spot deep in the back tissue near my chest wall and they recommended a biopsy.”
Steele went to see Nicole Sharp Cottrell, M.D., a breast surgical oncologist at the INTEGRIS Health Breast Surgery Clinic. “I was able to diagnose Diana with triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma,” remembers Sharp Cottrell. “Triple negative is usually a more aggressive type of tumor with a faster growth rate and a higher risk of metastasis. I knew we had to act quickly and attack it with everything we had.”
She was sent to see Lara Theobald, M.D., a medical oncologist at the INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute, who ordered an MRI to make sure the cancer had not spread. “There were two other areas of concern,” recalls
Theobald. “But thankfully, those turned out to be benign.”
Steele’s course of treatment was fast and furious. She started chemotherapy in June. That ended in October. She underwent a lumpectomy in December and started radiation in January. Dr. Gary Larson, M.D., was her radiation oncologist.
“She received a hypofractionated course of radiation therapy,” he says.
“Meaning, each treatment delivers a high dose of radiation so it can be completed in only 15 sessions. In February 2023, her regimen was complete.”
“I really appreciated that everything was so timely,” Steele states.
“Everything seemed to fall into place. It really helped me stay positive and control my stress level.”
Steele participated in physical therapy to regain her strength and is currently cancer-free. She just retired from teaching at the age of 60 and is enjoying time with her husband, Ricky, two grown sons and two grandsons. Still a teacher at heart, she hopes others can learn from her story. “Get your annual mammograms. Don’t put them off,” she proclaims. “My cancer was so small, you couldn’t physically feel it. If I had waited until it was large enough to feel, then I think my outcome could have been very different.”
For more information or to schedule a mammogram call 855-MYMAMMO (696-2666).
A brand-new bookstore has opened at 21 S Broadway in downtown Edmond. Owners Lori and Robert Black tried to hold a family and friends opening last Saturday but when you open the doors to such an incredible new retail bookstore, folks will come in to shop. That is exactly what happened. “We just decided to open the doors and make it a soft opening instead,” said Lori Black.
IBM. I visited him often and learned much about the town that never sleeps. Sure, much has changed over the years, but the bones are still there.
I love the people of NYC. Having visited there for the last 40 years I can tell you that the folks are great. Just like every other place I have traveled to; they want the same thing as the rest of us in life. Enjoying the folks that work there over a cup of coffee is a great experience. I have also found them willing to help a visitor as well.
Ray HibbardBluebird Books is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They are closed on Monday. Black said they have the inventory they wanted in, but more is on the way. There will be plenty of selection, but this bookstore comes with some special sauce in the form of who is doing the picking. There has been input from many of the folks that live here in Edmond so the selection will reflect what Edmond folks like to read, especially for their children.
The children’s section is particularly robust since some of the minority investors in the store are raising or have just raised small children and have great insight as to what might be good choices for mom and dad. Some of them will be working in the store parttime just because of their love for books and the way they care for our community. Children’s books are also important due to it being the age where children develop their “love of learning” as Black explained.
She was quick to add that there will be no shortage of other genres including non-fiction, thriller, mystery, and the incredible opening of the world of fiction. “We will touch all the other genres as well”, Black added. I like that book selections are being made by local folks. Bookstore’s can be a bit intimidating to some but at Bluebird you will be talking to your friends and neighbors to guide you through the great selections.
We are thrilled for our friends Lori and Robert Black who own a number of businesses including Evoke and Twisted Tree Bakery. They stepped in to make sure Edmond could keep a bookstore in downtown Edmond and bring their love of our community to the table. It is a much-needed energy.
We will have more on the grand opening, which is October 28th but until then, feel free to come by and see what Bluebird Books has in store for Edmond.
There is a crowded field of candidates that have declared their intent to run for a vacant Edmond House seat that will be on the ballot during an upcoming special election. The primary election will be held December 12, 2023, with the general election held February 13, 2024. This primary, since it is a special election, has a little different math. The winner of the primary does not have to get 51% of the votes in his party to advance to the general. The person that gets the majority of the votes wins even if
it is under 50%. This makes your involvement and vote count even more. There will be no runoff so the candidate that gets the majority vote count moves on.
The candidates for the House District 39 seat vacated by former state Rep. Ryan Martinez, who resigned after pleading guilty to a felony offense of being in physical control of a vehicle while intoxicated, includes seven Republicans, two Democrats and one Libertarian.
The House District 39 boundary stretches as far north as Waterloo Road and runs south to 15th Street in Edmond. The district has Bryant Avenue on the eastern boundary and Western Avenue on the western boundary.
Registered Republicans outnumber Democrats more than 2 to 1 in the House district that includes parts of Edmond and Oklahoma City. As of January, the district had 15,456 registered Republicans, 6,530 Democrats and 5,232 independents, according to Oklahoma State Election Board data.
The winner of the general election will be seated just after the start of the 2024 legislative session.
Everything a person could ask for in NYC
Lisa and I were only back for a week from our Viking River cruise before we were off to NYC for a business event. We will be doing a detailed story on that event in a later publication. I can say NYC did not disappoint. I love the town but would not want to live there.
When I was in my early 20’s, I had a high school friend that lived in NYC and worked for
The food is incredible. The choices, selection and quality are fantastic. We literally ate our way through the town. Every trip includes a stop at Ray’s famous pizza. I was first introduced to it when I was 25 and it is as good as ever. Italian is always a good choice. The truth is that fancy restaurants are not where you want to dine. As the door man or any working guy where to eat and it will be less expensive and the best food.
Here are some fun facts about the Big Apple:
1. The first pizzeria in the United States was opened in New York in 1905. That’s probably why New Yorkers are so passionate about their beloved slices.
2. There are more than 800 languages spoken in New York. It’s probably not that surprising considering 37% of the population are from another country.
3. Honking your car horn is actually illegal. With the exception of emergencies of course, New Yorkers tend to ignore this law and honking has become the signature sound of the city.
4. The ice cream cone, pasta primavera and eggs benedict were all invented in New York.
5. NYC homeowners can request that a tree gets planted outside their homes for free. Could be that we start that in Edmond as well.
6. New York taxis were originally red and green. They only changed to the iconic yellow color in 1912.
7. There are over 1600 pizza restaurants across the five boroughs.
8. There are 469 subway stops and visiting each one would take you about 24 hours.
9. The Statue of Liberty was delivered by the French in 350 pieces, with the last piece arriving 9 years after the first.
10. For the last 50 years, the price of a slice of pizza and a single subway ticket have been almost exactly the same. Economists call it the pizza principle.
If you haven’t been in a while, you may want to add NYC to your list for future travel. Plenty to do and eat!
(Ray Hibbard,may be reached for comment 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.
Central Oklahoma couldn't keep pace with the running Bearcats and lost 34-21 at Northwest Missouri Saturday afternoon in MIAA play.
UCO fell to 2-4 on the season with the loss. Northwest improved to 3-3.
"We just couldn't keep the big plays away," UCO head football coach Adam Dorrel said. "They kept breaking big plays and that killed us today. We did a good job on offense, but it's hard to keep pace with a team without getting stops."
Northwest Missouri running back Jay Harris ran the ball 22 times for 273 yards and four touchdowns. The sophomore had scores from 14, 54, 45, and 44. Central Oklahoma finished the game with 305 yards of total offense, having 241 through the air and 64 on the ground.
Dawson Herl came in for an injured Stephon Brown in the first quarter and was 17-for-29 passing with 198 yards and two interceptions. Trevon Woolfolk ran the ball 13 times for 32 yards. He did score twice to help the Bronchos.
Oscar Hammond led the UCO receivers with five receptions for 67 yards. Eight different receivers caught a pass for the Bronchos.
Johnathan Mosley and J.K. Moore led the defense with six tackles apiece. Jack Puckett had five tackles, two in the backfield, and one sack. Noah West, who didn't make a tackle, had one interception and he returned it for a touchdown.
UCO got the ball first in the game, but punted to Northwest, which went 64 yards on eight plays to take an early
lead. Harris scored on a 14-yard touchdown run.
The Bronchos responded though, marching down the field on a big, 17play, 71-yard scoring drive. Woolfolk found the end zone on a 2-yard touchdown run to tie the game, 7-7, with just over one minute left in the opening quarter.
UCO and Northwest settled into the game after the first two scores. Northwest punted back to UCO, but an interception gave it back to the host Bearcats. The Bronchos then forced a turnover on downs, but UCO punted it back again after that.
Then Harris had a takeover stretch. The sophomore running back had a 54yard touchdown and a 45-yard touchdown run to give Northwest Missouri a 20-7 lead.
The Bronchos answered to keep in the game. Woolfolk rushed for his second touchdown of the game from 1yard out to cap off a 7-play, 75-yard scoring drive the Bronchos. That made it 20-14 with 3:57 to play in the half.
Northwest went down the field as the first half came to a close, but the Bronchos made big stops to force a 36yard field goal. NWMSU missed it wide left and the teams went to the halftime locker room trailing by just one score.
Central Oklahoma returns home in Week 7 to host Lincoln. The Bronchos welcome the Blue Tigers of Jefferson City, Missouri to Chad Richison Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 14 with kickoff scheduled for 2 p.m.
When a person is doing genealogy and talks about brick walls, it means they have done everything they can think of and cannot find any information on a person in their ancestral line. Every genealogist has one or more brick walls. Occasionally, but rarely, breaking down a brick wall is the result of dumb luck. But more often, it takes time, method and lots of research.
On Oct. 18 at 10 a.m., the Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group will host La Nell Shores as she presents “Breaking Down Brick Walls.” La Nell has been
doing genealogy for over 25 years and is a member of numerous genealogical societies, including the Oklahoma Genealogical Society where she has served in many capacities, most recently as librarian.
The Genealogy Group meets the third Wednesday of each month at the Oklahoma County Extension Center, 2500 NE 63rd, Oklahoma City. he meetings are open to the public. More information about the group can be found on their website: ohcegenealogy.com or on Facebook: ohcegenealogy.
(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.
Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)
Sept. 25
Billi Anna Desaray Jones, 31 of Oklahoma City. Following too closely, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended or revoked.
Sept. 26
Douglas Keith Goodson, 50 homeless. Non-assault resisting officer.
Chad Vincent Chadwell, 44 homeless. False declaration to a pawn broker.
Calvin Maurice Owens, 43 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and misdemeanor warrant.
Shiloh Wayne Haddox, 26 transient, Two counts of failure to appear.
Sept. 28
Jonathon Wesley James, 33 of Edmond. Domestic abuse with prior pattern of physical abuse and public intoxication.
Pendavou Lasha Crain, 50 of Edmond. Public intoxciation
Ryan Anthony Brownanderson, 43 of Edmond. Obstruction of police officer and burglary in the
second degree.
Hijinio Villanueva, 53 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Sept. 29
Devin Lee Shelton, 21 of Edmond. Possess CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.
Sarahann Nicole Tiller, 22 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Crystal Dawn Robinson, 46 of Edmond. Expired tag — over three months, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.
Aidan Ross Miller, 23 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Matthew Gregory Hatcher, 29 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and failure to appear.
Sept. 30
William Craig Emmerson, 23 of Bethany. Public intoxication.
Colby Joel Williams, 20 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.
Andrew Phillip Hallenbeck, 50 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.
Angelnella T. Courtney, 65 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting.
Derek Edwin Conatser, 43 homeless. Possess with intent to distribute, two counts of possession of CDS, possess drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.
Allen Dwayne Parrish, 56 of Luther. Expired tag — over three months and four counts of failure to appear.
Oct. 1
Hilbert Ainsley, 32 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Lane Richard Sheffield, 23 of Edmond. Failure to appear.
Mitchell Clay Griesemer, 32 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Jalen Dequan Bizzell, 25 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.m
Isaiah Lamar Coulter, 32 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.
Clinton Lee Miller, 37 homeless. (Felony) domestic abuse assault & battery
Twyman Preston Joyner Jr., 39 of Edmond. Conspiracy and trafficking in illegal drugs.
Anthony Troy Mishion Jr., 43 of Edmond. Public intoxication and two counts of failure to appear.
Jennifer Anne Miskel, 44 of Edmond. Felony warrant, conspiracy and trafficking in illegal drugs.
Tiffany Cherrelle Simmons, 34 of Oklahoma City. (Felony) domestic abuse assault & battery.
What’s Happening This Weekend Oct. 12-15
---- In the Gallery
---- Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 ----
2020
---- Beginners Pickleball Club ---- Farmer’s Market
---- Guthrie Haunts
---- Kyle Dillingham’s Home Album Release Party ---- Cycle 66 Training Ride ---- Oktoberfest
---- Built to Last Bash ---- Oklahoma’s Richest Calf Roping
---- Wings Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch
---- October at Frenzy
---- Carly Pearce
---- Traditional Cowboy Arts Association Exhibition & Sale
---- Signature Tour
---- The Sanctuary Escape
---- Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch
---- Fright Fest
---- Fall Festival At the Orr Family Farm
---- Wicked Forest of Terror ---- OKC Ghost Tour ---- Theatre Crude Fringe Festival
Pumpkinville
Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show
---- Haunt the Zoo
---- History & Haunts at the Overholser
---- OKC Broadway presents: To Kill a Mockingbird
ARTonTAP
---- Oklahoma River Cruises’ Haunt the River
---- Guthrie Ghost Walk ---- Guided Gardens Tour ---- Arcadia Route 66 Neonfest ---- Southwest Street Rod Nationals
---- Outdoor October: Biketober
---- Midwest Liftfest
Extra Information
In the Gallery
Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Extra Info: Featuring Shelly Presley; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu ; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; edmondfinearts.com
Unveiled: Edm, 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 a nd Farmers Market
Extra Info: Sat, Apr 15 – Sat, Oct 28; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.gov
Guthrie Haunts
Location: 4524 Riverside Circle, Guthrie, OK
Extra Info: Fri, Sep 29 – Sat, Nov 4; Fri: 7 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 7 – 11 p.m.; Halloween Night: 7 – 11 p.m.; guthriescaregrounds.com
Kyle Dillingham’s Home Album Release Party
Location: Silver Leaf Gems
Extra Info: Thu, Oct 12; 7:30 p.m.; Free; silverleafgems.com
Cycle 66 Training Ride
Location: Edmond Library
Extra Info: Sat, Oct 14; 7:30 a.m.; Free; cycle66ok.com
Oktoberfest
Location: Frenzy Brewing Company
Extra Info: Sat, Oct 14; 12 p.m.; Free; facebook.com
Built to Last Bash
Location: 4900 E Danforth Rd
Extra Info: Sun, Oct 15; Free; 1 – 4 p.m.; https://www.bikereg.com/built-to-last-crit
Oklahoma’s Richest Calf Roping
Location: Lazy E Arena
Extra Info: Thu, Oct 12 – Sun, Oct 15; lazye.com
Wings Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch
Location: Wings Event Center
Extra Info: Sun, Oct 1 – Sun, Oct 22; Free; Fri & Sat: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun: 1 – 6 p.m.; wingsok.org
October at Frenzy
Location: Frenzy Brewing Company
Extra Info: Thu, Oct 12: The Brave Amigos @ 7 p.m.; Fri, Oct 13: Stan Carrier @ 7:30 p.m.; frenzybrewing.com
Carly Pearce
Location: Showplace Theatre, Riverwind Casino
Extra Info: Sat, Oct 14; 8 p.m.; riverwind.com
Traditional Cowboy Arts Association
Exhibition & Sale
Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Sun, Oct 6 – Tue, Jan 2, 2024; nationalcowboymuseum.org
Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Extra Info: Sat, Oct 14 -Sun, Oct 15; nationalcowboymuseum.org
The Sanctuary Escape Location: OKC Outlet Mall
Extra Info: Now thru Tue, Oct 31; 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; thesanctuaryescape.com
Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch
Location: 720 S Henney Rd, Arcadia
Extra Info: Fri, Sep 15 – Sun, Nov 5; Wed – Fri: 1 p.m. – dark; Sat: 10 a.m. – dark; Sun: 12 p.m. –dark; parkhurstranch.com
Fright Fest
Location: Frontier City
Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23 – Sun, Oct 29; Thu & Fri: 6 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 12 – 11 p.m.; Sun: 12 -10 p.m.; sixflags.com
Fall Festival At the Orr Family Farm
Location: Orr Family Farm
Extra Info: Sat, Sep 23 – Sat, Nov 11; orrfamilyfarm.com
Wicked Forest of Terror
Location: 9420 W 1-40 Service Rd, OKC
Extra Info: Sat, Sep 30 – Mon, Oct 30; Box office: 7 – 11 p.m.; Wicked Forest of Terror: dark – close; wickedforestofterror.com
OKC Ghost Tour
Location: 101 E Sheridan Ave, OKC
Extra Info: Thu, Oct 5 – Sat, Nov 4; Oct 5: 7 p.m.; Oct 6 & 14: 10 p.m.; Oct 21: 6:30 & 8:30 p.m.; Oct 26: 7 p.m.; Nov 4: 7 p.m.; eventbrite.com
Theatre Crude Fringe Festival
Location: Oklahoma Shakespeare
Extra Info: Thu, Oct 5 – Sat, Oct 14; Mon – Wed: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Thu & Fri: 5:30 – 11 p.m.; Sat; 1 – 11 p.m.; Sun: 1 – 9:30 p.m.; theatrecrude.org
Pumpkinville
Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens
Extra Info: Fri, Oct 6 – Sun, Oct 22; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; myriadgardens.org
Grand National & World Championship
Morgan Horse Show
Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park
Extra Info: Sat, Oct 7 – Sat, Oct 14; Shows begin: 9 a.m. 1 & 7 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 6:30 p.m.; gnwcmhs.com
Haunt the Zoo
Location: Oklahoma City Zoo
Extra Info: Sat, Oct 7 – Sun, Oct 29; Sat & Sun: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okczoo.org
History & Haunts at the Overholser
Location: Overholser Mansion
Extra Info: Sat, Oct 7 – Sun, Oct 29; Tours: Oct 7th, 14th, 27th, 28th & 29th; 6 p.m.; overholsermansion.org
OKC Broadway : To Kill a Mockingbird
Location: Civic Center Music Hall
Never had an artichoke? Cooking is simple - they just get boiled, yet it’s the preparation and the eating that take time. The artichoke is the only vegetable where there is more left on the plate after you are done then there was when you started!
Rumor has it that the fussy Henry VIII, with his several wives, had a distinctive use for artichokes and ate many of these for its supposed aphrodisiac effect.
On the quest for a new job (but not as King), it is easy as pie to allow a recruiter to glance at your resume, which should be in apple-pie order.
To get to the bare bones of the matter, your future employer may invite you out to dinner. That way the person in charge can tell if the prospective employee could cut the mustard or maybe, not be worth a fig.
Discovering what makes a person tick is no ancient Chinese secret, just go out to eat with him or her.
However, any interview can slide downhill fast if you grab the dinner fork instead of the salad fork, look goofy by cutting up all the food before eating, or chew noisily with your mouth open. Keep those elbows off the table and don’t salt or pepper heavily before giving the food a taste.
Or how about checking a phone constantly, speaking with a mouth full, treating the waitstaff with little or no respect, or gobbling up the food in a jiffy?
Finally, picking your teeth, blowing your nose or putting on lipstick, all no-no’s. Save that personal hygiene for the bathrooms.
Then comes the surprise - an artichoke. You just need two things: time and patience. Eating artichokes gives the interviewer time to really grill the person for the position, while you, on the other hand, are trying to
figure out just what to do with this thistle.
Practice at home. Buy the mediumsized ones, and to prepare an artichoke, cut the bottom off so it will stand upright, then take a few inches off at the top so it will open up, then with a pair of scissors, cut the sharp points off each leaf.
Boil water in a pot, add 2 tsp. salt, and allow the artichokes to boil for about 45 minutes for medium sized, until a leaf (also known as a bract) is easily pulled away or when a sharp knife goes easily through the bottom. Drain upside down.
When cooking, try not to use an aluminum or copper pot as those elements will discolor the artichoke into a battleship gray.
Melt butter for the flavor marriage, stand up each artichoke on a dinner plate, and eat by pulling off the leaves one by one. Dip the end with the bit of “meat” into the butter and then into your mouth and pull it out through your teeth, capturing the bit of “meat” at the bottom of each leaf. Discard the rest of the leaf on your plate. Then reach into the middle and scoop all the fuzzy stuff out - that’s the choke. Then go for the heart at the bottom. Heaven!
So, after meeting the challenge of showing off your knowledge, let’s only hope that the interviewer says, “O.K., so when can you start?”
Ada Blankenship and Ruth Foote presented educationals at Epsilon Sigma Alpha meeting.
Blankenship’s topic “Being Able to Learn at All Ages” explained the numerous benefits of being a lifelong learner which has been found to stimulate greater neuron generation and connections in the brain. Also lifelong learners had a reduced risk of forms of dementia, improved ability to handle challenges, and greater socialization which increases mood and health.
Foote’s topic was “Hearing the Voice of Someone You Love.” Hearing the voice of our loved ones versus a text conversation reduces our blood cortisol levels, which are a marker of stress and heightens the release of oxytocin, the feel-good hormone associated with bonding.
Both presentations were very informative for Epsilon Sigma Alpha Gamma Zeta members. Epsilon Sigma Alpha is an international philanthropic organization. Our projects this year are Boys’ Town Ranch, No Boundaries, Int’l., U R Special, Free to Live, and Salvation Army. State projects are Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur, Oklahoma and Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Our national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
It does not take superhuman powers to make a difference only the courage to take that first step. ESA gives you a chance to be of service and touch another’s life so be the change you want to see.
The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation and Alumni Engagement recently celebrated the achievements of the recipients of the university’s Distinguished Alumni Award during the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Awards Banquet.
The five recipients are Diana Bittle, Gary Brooks, Beatriz Mayorca, Joann McCarthy, Ph.D., and Ben Odom.
Bittle has worked at American Fidelity for more than 20 years as the senior vice president and chief information officer. She is known for her innovative problem-solving abilities, commitment to enhancing customer service and streamlining business procedures through technology. As the state co-chair for MATH COUNTS, a middle school math contest, she is devoted to promoting STEM education.
Bittle earned a bachelor’s degree from UCO in mathematics with an emphasis in computer science in 2002.
Brooks is an experienced commercial real estate professional based in Oklahoma City. With more than 30 years of expertise as a broker, developer and business owner, Brooks founded Cornerstone Development in 2008. His team has successfully leveraged various housing and urban development financing programs to construct and acquire more than 3,000 apartment units during the past 13 years. In 2017, Brooks and his partner Charlie Nicholas purchased and transformed The First National Center, a towering $1.1 million, square-foot building constructed in 1931, into a new and exciting space in Oklahoma City.
Brooks earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Central in 1988.
Mayorca is an accomplished artist and interior designer who experiments with a variety of art forms, such as sculptures, distinctive furniture and lighting design. Her primary interest is in producing public art that can appeal to a broad audience. Her goal is to develop one-of-a-kind pieces that stray from the conventional crafts of her homeland, Venezuela.
Mayorca earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from UCO
in 2011.
McCarthy is a retired educator currently living in Florida. She formerly held the position of chair and faculty member of the Donna Nigh Department of Advanced Professional and Special Services at Central. Throughout her career, McCarthy has shown unwavering support for UCO and created multiple scholarship funds for teachers, counselors and education. In recognition of her invaluable contributions, the UCO College of Education and Professional Studies established the Dr. Joann McCarthy Inspiring Educator Award, which acknowledges outstanding alumni who have positively impacted students, colleagues, schools and communities through innovative teaching methods.
McCarthy earned a Master of Education in elementary school administration from Central in 1988.
Odom made history as the first Broncho to win the prestigious Truman Scholarship. With 39 years of legal experience, Odom is a senior partner of the Norman firm, Odom & Sparks. He has served as President of his County Bar and taught law at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned his law degree. Odom has also held leadership positions in various civic organizations and was a member of the UCO Foundation Board of Trustees and served as Chairman of the Board for the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature Foundation.
Odom graduated from UCO with a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1981.
A committee selects the Distinguished Alumni Award recipients based on peer recommendations and notable accomplishments in one of three categories—professional impact, community service and university service. UCO Foundation and Alumni Engagement has given the awards annually since 1952, apart from 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
For more information on the UCO Distinguished Alumni Awards, visit centralconnection.org/AboutDAA or contact UCO Foundation and Alumni Engagement at alumni@uco.edu.
Irene Liang received recognition as Champion of Character for her punctuality on Thursday, October 5, by the Character Council of Edmond at Shannon Miller Park in Edmond. Irene’s husband, Jay, and their three children, Jemay, Joanne and Jeremy attended the presentation along with Character Council’s President Jim Hulsey and Council member, Gloria Baumann.
Irene’s oldest daughter, Jemay, nominated her for the Champion of Character award. She described her mother’s godly example of rising early to spend time praying and studying her Bible. After preparing breakfast she spends time reading the Bible with each of her three children.
Jemay said, “If it was up to her, my family would never be late for anything. My mom always leaves the house 15 minutes earlier than necessary to get somewhere on time.”
In addition to taking care of her family, Irene works part-time as an optician at the Walmart Vision Center. Jemay said, “She always shows up early to work and leaves late.”
She found her mother’s example of punctuality a benefit to learning valuable time management skills. Jemay said, “My mom
encouraged me to get a planner so I could write out the things I need to do each day.” As a student at Deer Creek High School, those skills come in handy with all the homework, after-school activities, and deadlines she experiences each day.
Jemay said, “After school, she asks me about my day and talks things out with me when I feel stressed. She always makes time for me, and I feel more and more like I need to organize my own time so I can make time for others like she does.”
Irene was in the eighth grade when she immigrated with her family from Taiwan to the U.S. in 1992. In her family Irene was expected to be punctual. Once they moved to the U.S. it became a necessity. It was a stressful time in her life as she transitioned to a different culture, with a limited ability to communicate, along with the challenges of a new school environment.
She found it difficult to make friends. There were no other Chinese students in the school, and some of the other students picked on her. The language barrier complicated connecting with others and made it necessary to study harder.
At first, in every subject she had to read over the assignment beforehand, listing the English
words she didn’t know, so she could look them up in a dictionary. She made notes in Chinese to help her comprehend as she reread the chapters. Online resources weren’t yet available. Her method took a lot of extra work but her English improved.
In addition, she was responsible to assist her parents and siblings with everyday tasks that involved communicating in English. She helped her father pay bills, accompanied her parents to appointments, read emails, answered telephone calls and taught her older brothers how to speak English.
It wasn’t until years later, when she came to know Jesus, that she appreciated how God used her difficulties as an adolescent to develop punctuality. Irene said, “It was a hard experience to grow punctuality. I was under lots of stress.”
Quoting from Romans
8:28, NIV she continued, “But, ‘we know that in all things God works for the good of all those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.’
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 730830392.
Last weekend the state’s two big football schools, got revenge for a couple of 2022 disasters.
OSU beat Kansas State, and as you may have heard, OU bested Texas.
Last year Texas decked OU, 49-0 and K-State humbled OSU, 48-0.
Amazing what a difference a year makes. I wonder if anyone on a team ever gets too confident
“Come on. We beat them 49-0 last year. How much could they have improved?”
But that’s the beauty of college football. Just about anything can happen.
I also find the OU-Texas atmosphere interesting. People tend to get a bit excited about it. That’s putting it mildly. And it’s even more intense on campus. Way, way way back when I went to OU the game was as big as it is now.
All the students were hyped up for the “big” game.
It was a bit much for some of the players.
I had a couple of football players sitting behind me in class. The week before the game with the ‘Horns, people were buzzing about it.
This one player leaned over to his teammate and said, “I’ll be glad when this game is over.”
The other guy simply said, “Yeah. Me too.”
What’s odd is one year, it was about six months after the game and I had to think who actually won. Of course when it ends 49-0 you don’t forget that too soon.
Going to a game in Norman is an experience. After you walk 10 miles to get to the stadium (a little hyperbole) you squeeze in on a bench with thousands of your closest friends. And for the next four hours, go crazy.
I went to my first game when I was 12. OU didn’t play particularly well that day, but won. When they scored their first touchdown in the second half, the place erupted. I couldn’t understand how grown-ups could go so nuts over a game. Then I wondered if there was something wrong with me because I didn’t feel that way.
I guess I got indoctrinated quick;y enough.
One last note. If you like college football don’t forget about your local teams. I’ve enjoyed many Broncho games over the years. The stage isn’t quite as big, but the players work hard and want to win. On the plus side, the ticket prices aren’t as high and you don’t have to walk 10 miles to get to Chad Richison Stadium.
By Sen. James Lankford .
US Customs and Border Protection recorded nearly 233,000 immigrants attempting to cross the border illegally last month. Last week, there were almost 11,000 illegal crossings in one 24-hour period. Since Biden took office, in less than three years, there have been more than 6 million encounters at the border, which is more than the previous 12 years combined.
For months, the public has heard that the border is in crisis, but when a government shutdown occurs, the situation on the border gets even worse. Overworked federal law enforcement along our border are asked to keep working without being paid until the government reopens. During a shutdown, many federal contractors also do not come into work and will not get paid at all. Along the border, contractors are a significant part of border enforcement and processing.
Still, some in Washington feel the best way to advance their policy ideas is for the government to shut down in order to put political pressure on leadership in the House and
the Senate. The three key issues around the latest government funding fight are real and significant: national security, $33 trillion in federal debt, and America’s role in international diplomacy. We absolutely should debate the direction of our economy, foreign policy, and national sovereignty, but Border Patrol agents and their families should not be used as leverage for Congress to complete its work.
For the last five years, I’ve worked with Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH) on a commonsense solution to take shutdowns off the table for good. Our Prevent Government Shutdowns Act is based on a simple concept: If you don’t finish your work on time, you have to stay until it is done. Every member of Congress has to remain in Washington, DC, seven days a week until the 12 appropriations bills have passed the House and Senate.
It’s the same expectation we have for our children: You have to stay after class if you fail to do your work in class. If Congress spent less time focused on shutdowns, we would actually have adult conversations on the trillions of dollars in overspending. We’re the United States of America. We should be able to have grown-up conversations about debt and deficit without shutting down. My bill lets us have those tough debates and protect government workers and the public in the process.
Our Border Patrol agents need support, not continued government shutdowns. It’s time to give them what they deserve and take shutdowns off the table for good.
Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, released the following statement ;last week regarding the special session.
“This week I was very disappointed, but not surprised that the Oklahoma State Senate met in special session, with billions of dollars hoarded away for tomorrow’s politicians’ newest pet projects, for not even a full day, only to say the financial challenges of millions of hard-working Oklahomans is not worth our time.
“I have been serving in the Oklahoma Senate for 11 years, and it is amazing to me how much the Senate, and the legislature in general, has changed. When I came in, we told citizens we would decrease the size of government and lower taxes, and we did that for over half my time in service. But, over the last few years we have steadily grown government, spending like drunken sailors on every new program that comes along, while giving no significant relief to the hard-working Oklahomans who voted us in
office to help them keep more of their money. It is their money after all.
“It has been mentioned that there is not enough time in special session to give taxpayers a financial break, but over the last year I have seen us extend special sessions for months until leadership got the vote they wanted on tribal compact policy, have watched leadership hastily throw together one billion dollar deal after another trying to bribe foreign woke companies, like Panasonic, to come to Oklahoma, using hard-earned taxpayer dollars to do so, and saw leadership spend over a hundred million dollars in additional funds for higher education, seemingly a financial reward for their non-stop efforts to discriminate based on race and indoctrinate young college students into their leftist ideology.
“What was done this week, simply, was a slap in the face to hard working Oklahomans, telling them that their financial stability during this extremely unstable time with skyrocketing infla-
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tion, out of control interest rates, and a federal government arming the IRS and raising taxes, was just not worth the time.
“I ran for office to decrease the size of government, lower taxes, stand up for parents’ rights, and protect Oklahoma’s children from attacks from every direction, much of it paid for by the very parents who are very upset by it. I have always and remain committed to these conservative ideals and leading through the convictions of my faith, and this week, as has the last few sessions, robbed me of that opportunity.
“I would encourage Oklahoma voters to remember what your legislators promised you when they ran for office, hold them accountable, and in any future election cast your vote for those candidates that are truly conservative and led by their principles and faith. Oklahoma desperately needs leaders that are willing to stand strong and put their constituents above their own political aspirations.”
‘Cowboy’ Stephens also not happy
Sen. Blake “Cowboy” Stephens, R-Tahlequah, released the following statement last week regarding the special session.
“Earlier this year, we successfully eliminated the corporate franchise tax and the marriage penalty tax, and this special session gave us another opportunity to provide tax relief for all hardworking Oklahomans. I was surprised and disheartened that we adjourned so quickly without
figuring out a way to responsibly lower the personal income tax. We’ve been fiscally conservative and built up historic savings in recent years to protect vital state services during economic downturns and have made record investments in education, public safety, and other important areas. Now our citizens deserve tax relief as well to help counteract the growing financial burden from out-of-control national inflation and the slowing economy.
His new album ‘Homa’ honors Oklahomans
Fresh off the global stage in China representing the United States at the sixth annual Silk Road International Cultural Expo, America’s Fiddling Ambassador, Kyle Dillingham, will be bringing his fiery fiddling to downtown Edmond’s Kyle Dillingham Community Arts Stage, Thursday, October 12th, to celebrate his much-anticipated new album, “Homa.” The free event begins at 7pm with complimentary hot dogs and other refreshments followed by a presentation by the Asian Chamber of Commerce and a performance of Dillingham’s new songs from the album.
“The name Oklahoma comes from two Choctaw words “okla” meaning a people; a tribe; a nation,” said Dillingham. “And “humma,” which when applied to people, is an honorific meaning courageous; brave; honorable; elite; set apart. So, Oklahoma means honorable nation; a brave people; a courageous nation. Be brave and set apart; let “Homa” be your anthem.”
A fan favorite from the album, "Freedom Bells," is an International Songwriting Competition winner (“The songwriting competition to take note of…” —New York Times).
It was selected from over 21,000 entries worldwide and 1 of 13 entries in the Instrumental Category with only two finalists from the United States.
“Homa” was nominated for Best Americana Song at the 2021 Indie Music Channel Awards presented at the iconic Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood. "Way to go! I receive over 20,000 song submissions a year from all around the world. Keep making great music!” said Emmy Award-winning producer/host, Christopher Ewing. “You are, truly, one of the best indie artists in the world!"
Dillingham, and his band, Horseshoe Road, were invited back to China as part of this year's Old Friends on the Silk Road Goodwill Tour, which kicked off at Tianjin Juilliard School and took them through Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Jinchang and Qingyang, Edmond’s sister city.
“I was at the signing of the EdmondQingyang sister city friendship agreement in 2016, and my band and I performed a one-year anniversary concert in 2017,” said
Dillingham. “We were back in 2019 and felt so blessed to return this year to share our music again with some dear old friends.”
“We were also hosted by a Fortune 500 company for a spectacular concert that was a musical bridge of friendly exchanges between the United States and Mongolia. They even published an incredible review of it on their news center.”
Dillingham made history at the Grand Ole Opry in 2019 with an unprecedented debut performance on a Dolly Parton skateboard.
"Kyle Dillingham has made Opry history. His debut tonight, and the first ever to enter and exit on a skateboard. It is my thought that the fiddler blew the roof off the Grand Ole Opry house tonight!" said Bill Cody, Grand Ole Opry Announcer/Host.
"Proud of you brother...you play violin/fiddle with more passion than anyone in history...and the skateboard? Wow!!!" said Duane Allen, The Oak Ridge Boys.
In 2023, Dillingham was selected as one of the Metro’s Most Influential Leaders by 405 Business Magazine and was one of six selected by Oklahoma Magazine for the honor of Oklahoman of the Year 2022.
Presented by the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, he was awarded the prestigious honor of Oklahoma Ambassador of Goodwill in 2020. Previously honored Ambassadors of Goodwill include Toby Keith, Kristin Chenoweth, Roger Miller, Reba McEntire, Jimmy Webb, and Hank Thompson, to name a few.
Honored by Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry, he was selected as a recipient of the 2009 Governor's Arts Award, acknowledging his life's work as a violinist, vocalist, musical ambassador for the state of Oklahoma and for his gift to connect with people throughout the world.
“As Oklahoma’s Musical Ambassador, I’ve proudly represented my state in over 40 countries,” Dillingham said. “But there is no place on earth like the Great State of Oklahoma! Come celebrate Homa with me under the stars.”
Edmond History Museum presents Madras Shirts and Mini-Skirts on Friday, Oct. 13 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Getyour dancing shoes ready and don your best Madras shirts and Mini-Skirts as we twist-andshout to the timeless tunes of The Old Bulldog Band. Edmond History Museum’s event, “Madras Shirts & Mini-Skirts,” will mark the conclusion of our Bulldog Spirit exhibit. We’re pulling out all the stops to make it a night to remember!
Event Details:
Date: Friday, October 13
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Location: Edmond History Museum, 431 S. Boulevard Edmond, OK 73034
Admission: $15, tickets can be purchased on EdmondHistory.org
Live Music: Relive the Rock and Roll Era with emcee D.J. Mike Munday, special guest DJ Ronnie Kay, and The Old Bulldog Band as they transport you back in time with tunes from the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. Immerse yourself in the sounds and dances that define a generation. Punch and light appetizers will be provided.
Celebrate the closing of the “Bulldog Spirit: Edmond’s First High School” exhibit, which explores the history and cherished memories of Edmond High School through our unique exhibit, featuring artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from the school’s past.
Museum Information: Edmond History Museum hours are 10 to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. To purchase event tickets, visit the museum website at www.EdmondHistory.org or call 405-340-0078.
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The 24th annual gala hosted by INTEGRIS Health Foundation on Sept. 22, saw a remarkable gathering of over 700 caregivers, leaders and community partners rising together to support access to mental health care.
The evening, held at the Omni in OKC,raised an astounding $750,000 for digital mental health treatment for INTEGRIS Health patients across the system. Every patient is different, but treatment could include automated check-ins from a mobile device, access to self-guided online resources, or the ability to schedule virtual appointments easily and be seen in a matter of hours rather than the current wait time – months.
One of the evening’s most moving moments was the keynote address by survivor, Kevin Hines. He shared his incredible journey from a suicide attempt off the Golden Gate Bridge 23 years ago to his transformative healing and resilience. His message of embracing wellness, enduring pain and finding mental and emotional strength left an indelible mark.
The INTEGRIS Health Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported this remarkable event. Your contributions are not just financial; they are a lifeline for those battling mental health challenges.
It is quickly approaching! Stockyards City Main Street would like to invite everyone to attend the annual Stockyards Stampede event that will be held on Saturday, October 21st in historic Stockyards City!
The Slash O' Ranch Longhorns will kick off the event at 10:00 a.m. by parading down the street. They will begin at the iconic Oklahoma National Stockyards archway on Exchange.
The longhorns will be in the National Saddlery Arena until 2 pm, then they will return to Oklahoma National Stockyards, via Agnew.
An authentic Chuck Wagon camp will be set up where you can view demonstrations of traditional cooking. At noon, samplings of cobbler,
stew, cornbread and more will be on hand.
The Corral stage will feature live music by many talented entertainers, including Tanner Fields, the Dalbys, and Jay Steagall and the PartTimers. The Little Miss and Mr. Stockyards City pageant will begin at noon. Charros Del Roble will be doing roping demonstrations at 11:30 am and again at 1:00 pm.
The Corral stage is located at Exchange Avenue and Youngs Boulevard.
A Made in Oklahoma Market will include locally made and produced items. Various types of demonstrations and tastings will be held throughout the day. The Market will be next to Little Joe’s Boots.
“Fair Play” is the latest Netflix original thriller from writer/director Chloe Domont. An unexpected promotion at a cutthroat hedge fund pushes a young couple’s (Alden Ehrenreich and Phoebe Dynevor) relationship to the brink threating to unravel far more than their recent engagement.
On the surface “Fair Play” wants to be a suspenseful erotic thriller with a strong sense of social commentary.
However, with a lack of eroticism and thrills, all that is left in the film is it’s clear analysis of men and women in an extremely competitive and high stakes workplace.
While the film looks and feels like it should be a throwback to the 90’s erotic thrillers in the vein of “Disclosure” and basically anything starring Michael Douglas in that period, it lacks the narrative teeth to push it over the entertaining drama with a little extra spice into memorable “can’t miss” kind of movie.
The performances of Ehrenreich and Dynevor
are the engine making this film work as well as it does.
Ehrenreich brings an interesting emotional range to the jealousy and anger asked of him that feels like fitting in today’s climate.
And while sometimes her English accent peaks through her dialogue, Dynevor is engaging as a woman whose had to overcome some hurdles to achieve the amount of success in the male dominated industry.
Answers on Page 19
Their dynamic delivered a stress-inducing amount of toxicity and tension throughout that was the most successful part of the film.
Overall, “Fair Play” is the kind of movie that people complain about not getting enough of in today’s Hollywood offerings.
Pairing a couple of up-and-coming young stars and giving them a solid (yet less impactful than the filmmakers may have hoped) drama that showcases the true ‘acting’ chops that are rarely seen in the comic book franchise movies that we are inundated with on a near weekly basis. However, the film overall lacks the thrills and narrative bite to escape the mediocrity of Netflix original movies.
“Fair Play” is rated R for pervasive language, sexual content, some nudity and sexual violence.
2.8 out of 5 stars
T o reach George for comment on this review or any for others movie reviews, please e-mail him gust.george@gmail.com
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Kaleidoscope Dance Company will present performances filled with diverse dance styles as part of its fall concert at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 26-28, in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus.
In addition to faculty choreographers, the dancers had the opportunity to learn from celebrated guest artists, including Alexandra Beller, Paige Fischer, Michelle Rambo and Yukina Sato.
“The Kaleidoscope concert will feature diverse dance genres, including modern, hip hop, contemporary and jazz,” said Tina Kambour, artistic director of UCO’s Kaleidoscope Dance Company.
The Kaleidoscope Dance Company is comprised of 22 dance majors who have undergone a rigorous audition process to earn their place in the company. The 19 dancers in UCO’s junior company, KD2, will also perform in the concert.
Tickets are $20. Tickets for seniors and nonUCO students are $15. Central students receive one free ticket with a valid UCO ID.
To purchase tickets, visit go.uco.edu/mitchellhall or call 405-974-3375.
VillagesOKC will host a free, daylong workshop Nov. 1 focused on brain health. Positive Aging: Love Your Brain will feature two guest speakers, an inspiring video and plenty of audience participation at the Metro Technology Center’s Springlake campus, 1900 Springlake Dr. The event runs from 10 am to 2 pm. A light lunch will be served.
The session is funded in part by a grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation and its Services for the Elderly iFund grant program. Lead sponsor is CompleteOK Home Care & Hospice.
Richard V. Smith, MD, will present “2023 Advances in Stroke Prevention and Treatment.”
Jonathan Vestal, DC, will present “Brain’s Vital Signs.” The documentary “My Love Affair with the Brain” will be shown.
Dr. Smith is a board-certified neurosurgeon, Medical Director Emeritus of the Mercy NeuroScience Institute and currently serves as Mercy Health Foundation Physician Liaison. As Medical
Director of the Mercy Oklahoma City NeuroScience Institute from 2003 until 2020, Dr. Smith was instrumental in leading the team in the development of the Mercy Comprehensive Stroke Center, the Mercy Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Center, and the Mercy Herman Meinders Center for Movement Disorders.
He continues to serve as a volunteer physician at Crossings Community Clinic for the medically under-served.
Dr. Vestal is the owner and a chiropractor at Family Wellness Chiropractic in Yukon. He is a practitioner of functional neurology, which seeks to evaluate the functioning levels of the nervous system, determine which areas of a person’s nervous system are weak, and devise an appropriate treatment to improve the quality of how their
nervous system functions. He spent almost four years serving as a functional neurologist at the NeuroLife Institute, a neurology clinic at Life University near Atlanta.
“My Love Affair With the Brain: The Life and Science of Dr. Marian Diamond” is documentary profile of a brilliant woman scientist whose work revealed previously unimagined capabilities of the human brain that changed science’s understanding of a person's potential. Dr. Diamond demonstrated anatomically, for the first time, what is now call plasticity. In so doing, she shattered the old paradigm of understanding the brain as static and unchangeable. Registration for the upcoming workshop is available on the VillagesOKC website – www.villagesokc.org – or by calling (405) 990-6637.
The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline, a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), is launching a statewide campaign highlighting the link between smoking and Type 2 diabetes.
In Oklahoma, diabetes is one of the ten leading causes of death, affecting nearly half a million residents (14%) — and more than one million Oklahomans are affected by prediabetes. Studies show that people who smoke have up to a 40% higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes than non-smokers. Additionally, people with diabetes who smoke are more likely to have trouble with insulin dosing
and managing their condition.
“While most people are aware of the cancer risks, there are many other health risks associated with tobacco use, including Type 2 diabetes,” said Julie Bisbee, TSET executive director. “This new campaign highlights these additional harms. ”
The “Diabetes Kitchen Counter” ad follows a man through several decades as he places items on a table, such as his keys, wallet, phone and cigarettes. As years pass, diabetes medication gets added to the items because of his tobacco use. Ultimately, he decides to quit tobacco with the
United Way of Central Oklahoma continues to support creative solutions to health and human services challenges by awarding $237,276.00 through its fifth annual WayFinder Innovation Grant program. The 2023 recipients are Calm Waters, NewView Oklahoma, Thick Descriptions and Healthy Minds Policy Initiative.
The winners were announced at United Way’s Campaign Kickoff Reception at the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club earlier this month, and confirmed at the UWCO Board of Directors meeting on September 29, 2023.
“United Way is grateful for another year of progressive projects and new approaches to meet significant needs in our community,” said Debby Hampton, United Way of Central Oklahoma president and CEO. “The Wayfinder program continues to get better and better every year!”
Launched in 2019, United Way’s WayFinder Innovation Grant program encourages local nonprofits to develop new and innovative approaches to health and human services issues in central Oklahoma. Finalists were invited to pitch their ideas in a ‘Shark Tank’ approach to a panel of community leaders in August, who selected four projects for funding in 2023.
The Healthy Minds Initiative will receive $113,850.00 as startup funding for a multi-year initiative to strategically align Oklahoma City’s resources, services and funding with the growing mental health needs of its residents. The program will build a comprehensive, population-level strategy for tackling the city’s systemic behavioral health challenges.
Calm Waters will be given $40,000.00 to create a grief support
group and education program for medical students and residents at the University Of Oklahoma College Of Medicine. This Program will consist of two branches: grief-sensitivity education and training for medical students, and grief support groups for medical residents.
NewView will receive $69,926.00 to develop a one-of-a-kind NewView Print House that will allow NewView Oklahoma to create tactile coloring books for all ages, educational materials, children’s books and other print materials designed specifically for Oklahoma’s low-vision and blind population.
Thick Descriptions, a science empowerment and cultural intelligence agency, will receive $13,500.00 to fund a special program called “Check Out a Human” to be used as a part of the steAm Learning Journey. This program will offer a camp to tweens and teens teaching them how to become preservers of Oklahoma history.
With the inclusion of this year’s grant recipients, United Way of Central Oklahoma has committed $1,119,270.00 to 17 different programs as part of the Wayfinder initiative. Previous recipients include Pivot, Inc., The Oklahoma City for Community and Justice Youth Leadership Forum for Community Transformation, Calm Waters, Goodwill Industries, NewView Oklahoma, youth & Family Services, Mental Health Association of Oklahoma, Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City, City Care, The Homeless Alliance, ReMerge, and YWCA of Greater Oklahoma City.
To learn more about United Way’s impact in central Oklahoma, visit www.unitedwayokc.org.
Helpline. Type 2 diabetes is preventable and manageable by focusing on making healthy lifestyle choices each day.
The “Diabetes Kitchen Counter” campaign will be broadcast on TV and radio statewide and also includes social media content and print and digital ads. To see this campaign and learn more about health risks involved with tobacco use, visit OKhelpline.com. Ready to quit? Call the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline at 1-800-QUIT NOW to get started.
The Oklahoma Historical Society’s John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick Research Center will host its book sale Wednesday, Oct. 18, through Saturday, October 21, at the Oklahoma History Center, located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. The sale is open from 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday and from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday. No admission is required to come to the book sale.
The sale will include thousands of rare and out-of-print books, magazines, comics and vinyl records. Visitors can shop for collectibles, puzzles and Oklahoma playing cards. Reproductions of historic posters, maps, photographs and more will also be available. For family history researchers, there will be several genealogical publications for sale. The Research Center will also offer several framed items for 50% off the regular retail price.
The book sale is a fundraiser for the OHS’s John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick Research Center. Proceeds
from the sale will support the Research Center’s efforts to collect items of historical significance, provide programming for researchers and school groups, and offer resources online. The Research Center archives documents, books, photographs, genealogical information, American Indian records, audio, newspapers, maps, oral histories, film and video related to Oklahoma.
The John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick Research Center is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.
This is a weekly report that provides updates on public and private construction projects, road/lane closures, alternative routes, and other information that is of importance to our downtown community. Anyone interested in getting the email notifications can sign up at https://www.edmondok.gov/list.aspx ?ListID=273.
To see an interactive map of ongoing projects, check Downtown Project Updates (arcgis.com).
OCT. 5, 2023
New projects
None.
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 shortterm 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 closure: 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.
Completed projects
Fourth Street parking closure: As part of the Stephenson Park improvements project, Fourth Street between Boulevard and Littler Avenue is open, and the parking stalls along Fourth Street are open but could see periodic temporary closures to finish some striping of the street and parking is completed.
Manufacturing has brought Oklahoma tremendous economic growth and stability throughout the years, and I’m proud to celebrate National Manufacturing Week alongside our small businesses, stakeholders, and state manufacturers. It’s an honor to serve a state that continues to push the envelope with cutting-edge innovation, technological development, and sustainable growth. There’s no question that Oklahoma is open for business. More than 4,200 manufacturers operate in Oklahoma, enjoying “right-to-work” laws with low unemployment insurance taxes. This allows Oklahoma to remain competitive in the labor market while advancing in our economic growth and allowing individual workers to decide for themselves if union membership makes sense for their personal goals. From aerospace and defense to food, foundries, and plastics, Oklahoma has successfully recruited thousands of companies to enjoy Oklahoma’s business-friendly environment while supplying countless high-paying jobs.
Moreover, Oklahoma is ideally located at the crossroads of America, allowing manufacturers to have a favorable, cost-effective, and convenient location between the East and West Coast. Our state is proudly home to four inland waterway ports, three class-I rail lines, 135 public-use airports, and two international airports. We have a constant flow of talented professionals from Okla-
homa’s 20 colleges and universities that offer manufacturing technician-related programs and other skills-based trade objectives. Whether students learn via vocational training or higher education, it’s imperative that Oklahoma’s educational programs reflect the needs of our expanding manufacturing industry.
Oklahoma CareerTech’s system is projecting an impressive 10,000 manufacturing-related program completions in the next five years, launching the next generation into the future of Oklahoma manufacturing. Oklahoma is also home to the world’s largest Department of Defense air depot and commercial airline, maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities.
Oklahoma’s growing manufacturing industry accounts for 9.15 percent of the total economic output in our state and employs 7.90 percent of the
total workforce. Our total manufacturing output is around $18.59 billion, with 9.15 percent share of total gross product. Furthermore, manufacturers help to drive the Oklahoma economy with $5.71 billion in manufactured goods exports as of 2021. I am also proud to recognize Oklahoma’s cost-effective electricity; industrial electric rates are 20-30 percent lower than all other U.S states.
At the end of the day, it is the hard-working Oklahomans and job creators that make our state’s manufacturing sector so impressive. This National Manufacturing Week, I want to give a massive thank you to everyone who continues to make our manufacturing industry so successful in Oklahoma. Our state would not be able to perform as well as we do without your steadfast commitment, entrepreneurial spirit, and constant innovation to support a stronger Oklahoma.
Jesus House continues its tradition of providing a Thanksgiving meal to people in need in Oklahoma City.
On Friday, Nov. 17 from 8 - 10 a.m. and Monday, Nov. 20 from 8 - 10 a.m., Jesus House will provide a frozen turkey or frozen ham, and instant sides to families, enough to feed a family of four to five people.
Jesus House expects to provide 750 to 1,000 meals to the Oklahoma City community this year. For 50 years, Jesus House has been providing “HOPE” to the hurting, hungry and addicted in Oklahoma City.
“We believe that nobody should worry about where their next meal will come from, so we are honored to help as many people as we can…God always provides,” said Jared Frazier, CEO of Jesus House. The following food items can be donated to Jesus House to support its Thanksgiving Food Basket Giveaway:
Frozen turkeys
Frozen ham
Instant mashed potatoes
Instant dressing
Instant gravy mixes
Canned green beans
Canned corn
Canned cranberry sauce
For more information, or to schedule your food donation delivery, contact Jim Hopper or Russell Benson at (405) 232-7164 or visit Jesus House online at www.jesushouseokc.org.
