Edmond Life and Leisure - January 16, 2025

In This Issue

FOUR SEASONS

See pages 2, 5, and 10

Getting help to those with mental illness

Police & private groups tackling issue

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17

Partly Cloudy High 64° Low 29°

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

Partly Cloudy High 37° Low 14°

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

Partly Cloudy High 22° Low 12°

By Rose Drebes

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 23.1% of adults in the United States live with a mental illness. To address that, the Edmond community is partnering with stakeholders to reduce the stigma around the topic of mental health and to expand the resources for those living with a mental illness, thus improving the quality of life for every resident, Police Chief J.D. Younger said.

In 2021, the City of Edmond engaged Healthy Minds Policy Initiative (Healthy Minds) to conduct a mental health system assessment of the community.

“The Edmond Community Behavioral Health Assessment and implementation has been one of the most impactful community initiatives I’ve had the pleasure of being involved with,” the chief said. In 2019, Edmond Police Officers provided in-custody transports for 679 people experiencing a mental health crisis, Younger said. In 2023, Edmond Police Officers provided in-custody transports for 277 people experiencing a mental health crisis.

“Through a combination of legislative improvements, increased community resources, and intentionality, 60% fewer people had to experience police involvement in their mental health crisis,” he said. “In Edmond, our community promotes prevention, early detection and treatment for all aspects of health including mental health.

”NorthCare is one of the city’s community partners, hoping to improve the mental health of residents of Edmond and surrounding areas. Director of Crisis Services Bryan Hiel said the organization helps what tends to be a forgotten, if not a purposely ignored service and population.

“We do not tend to feel comfortable around those that are different than us and the qualifier for what we do is being different (abnormal) from everyone else,” he said. Hiel said individuals with mental health issues die on an average of 23 years earlier than the general population. In any given year, one out of every five people are diagnosed with depression and prescribed an anti-depressant.

“That is just depression, 20% of the US population,” Hiel said. “Those numbers do not include substance abuse, cognitive disorders, other mood disorders or trauma. In 2022, 49,449 people died by suicide in the United States.

continued on Page 4

Remembering Neal McCaleb

PHOTO PROVIDED Police Chief J.D. Younger

From the Publisher

Chamber’s new leadership named

We often get asked what the best thing you can do when starting a new business. In Edmond, the first move should be to join our Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce. When we started this newspaper in 2000, 25 years ago, the first check I wrote was to our chamber. After years of participating and reporting on the activities of the chamber I knew firsthand how important it was to be a member. It is still the best investment we make each year.

The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce recently announced its 2025 board of directors and officers.

Kenneth Wohl with Regent Bank, will serve as chair of the board of directors. I first met Kenneth through our work with the chamber. He is a terrific guy, a great leader and family man. I think the world of this business leader and you can bet it will be another fantastic year at the chamber with Kenneth as chair so if you are not a member join today and tell them Ray Hibbard recommended it.

Jamey Mullin with Service Master by Eagle Eye, will serve as the chair elect for 2026 and Michelle Keylon with Francis Tuttle, will serve as the immediate past chair. Also serving on the executive committee will be Martha Ball, McDonald’s; Will Blanchard, Oklahoma Christian Academy; Kevin Freeman, UCO; and Brandon Rader, Rader Development.

Elected to new three-year terms on the board are Martha Ball, McDonald’s and Brad Weber, Crest Discount Foods. The following individuals were appointed to serve one-year terms on the board: Valerie Morrison, Morrison Cup Solutions; Josh Dougherty, CEC; and Makailyn Dillon, Oklahoma ER & Hospital.

They will join returning members of the board: Chris Anderson, The Grant Group; Evan Comer, Turn2Payments; Randy Decker, Edmond Public Schools; Jan Moran, AT&T ( queen of all chambers); Jason Perez, Deer Creek Public Schools; Scot Rigby, City of Edmond; Jon Rule, Integris Health Edmond; Rex Shriner, Jetta Corporation; Chad Smith, Mercy; Jim Trent, BancFirst; and Angie Ward, MidFirst Bank.

It was formed in 1907, a 900+-member organization working together to create a strong local economy and to promote the community. The Edmond Chamber provides networking opportunities and business contacts for its members and represents business interests to the government.

By joining the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce, you are joining a group of more than 1,000 reputable members who are working together to create a strong local economy and to promote our community. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce offers specific benefits, resources and support for your business.

Connections

With a wide range of social and professional events, the Edmond Chamber offers more than sixty networking opportunities for our membership each year.

Business After Hours – monthly

Morning Mingle – monthly

Membership Luncheons – bimonthly

Annual Awards Banquet, Auction, Golf, Sporting Clays Tournaments, and Dancing with the Stars – annually

Women Mean Business Breakfast – monthly January – October

Membership Magnified – bimonthly

Member Rewards Program – Members can earn points for attending Chamber events and meetings. Members will be eligible for monthly prize drawings based on their accumulated points.

Marketing

The Edmond Chamber provides numerous channels to promote your business to other Chamber members, local residents, and out-oftown visitors. All members are included in both the printed and online Membership Directory. Other marketing opportunities include:

Semiannual Chamber magazine, The Voice

Annual Edmond Area Map

Weekly E-newsletter and events emails

Ribbon cutting ceremonies

Sponsorship opportunities

Advertising opportunities on this website

Education

The Edmond Chamber provides programs that cater to all levels within an organization. Our many informational events are designed to keep members updated on the latest business news and trends in Edmond.

Business Development Program: Workshops & Luncheons

Leadership Edmond

Small Business Owner’s Alliance

Youth Leadership Edmond

Edmond Young Professionals

Membership Luncheons

Advocacy

The Edmond Chamber is the voice for business in the Edmond Community. It is dedicated to representing business interests to government.

Advocacy on a local, state & federal level Forums to meet local, state and federal representatives face-to-face

Access to current information on legislation that affects your business

Active Government Relations Council that advocates issues addressed in the Chamber’s Legislative Agenda or relevant to the business community.

Key Chamber leaders participate in the Annual State Chamber Washington Fly-In to visit our nation’s capital to advocate for Edmond.

Community

The Edmond Chamber is working to make Edmond a greater place to live, work and play. Your Chamber membership allows you to help make a difference in the Edmond community.

The Edmond Chamber is a strong supporter of our troops with the Military Affairs Program.

The Edmond Chamber is active in university education, working with UCO, Oklahoma Christian and Francis Tuttle to help grow our work force.

The Small Business Council recognizes local businesses that have made significant growth and contributed to the overall progress of the Edmond area with the Small Business of the Year Award.

Each year, the Edmond Chamber hosts a New

Teacher Reception to welcome all new teachers. Edmond lost two incredible citizens recently For information about the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.edmondchamber.com.

——

The end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 brought some sadness to our community. We lost two of our most treasured citizens. Neal McCaleb and Anita Bryant.

Neal A. McCaleb is a name that rings of greatness here in Edmond, our state and nation. Newer folks to Edmond may not know much about McCaleb or they may know his family more, but Neal was one of those people that made Edmond great, and his leadership is responsible for many of the things we all enjoy about Edmond today. He was a civil engineer and Republican politician. A member of the Chickasaw Nation, McCaleb served in several positions in the Oklahoma state government and then as the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs under President George W. Bush.

He is a member of the Edmond Hall of Fame. Public service was not new to McCaleb. His father served as director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. His family has continued that tradition here in Edmond by serving on committees and locating their businesses here. This community owes a great deal of thanks to this man for his service which has brought us so much.

Neal always had a smile of encouragement for people, and you could just see the calm kindness in his eyes.

National performing artist Anita Bryant who made her home here in Edmond passed away in December. Before she was famous for her tag line promoting Florida orange juice, “A day without orange juice is like a day without sunshine” she had a great career as an entertainer and serving as Miss. Oklahoma. She became known as Anita Bryant Dry after marrying former astronaut Charlie Dry, who preceded her in death.

I did not know she lived in Edmond until we were talking in our office many years ago about who would make a good parade marshal for the LibertyFest parade. A visitor in our office suggested Anita Bryant who lived here. We contacted her and she was able to make it work in her schedule.

Unfortunately, too many folks like to focus on the controversy she had in her career. Ugly people did mean things to her because she spoke her mind. I guess free speech was limited back in the 1980’s. The truth is that she was incredibly gracious and kind to us and everyone I saw her encounter.

At the LibertyFest parade she was mobbed by young girls competing in pageants across the state.

She was so kind and took time to talk with everyone of them. She absolutely defined grace. She was accused of hate, but I can promise you she did not have a hateful bone in her folks. She inspired so many and cared a great deal for her adopted community of Edmond.

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

mondpaper.com For Advertising contact Alexx Reger at alexx@edmondpaper.com

Ray Hibbard

History museum will mark 40th year Saturday

The Edmond History Museum is hosting a party to celebrate its 40th year in existence on Saturday, Jan 18th, from 3-4:00pm. The event is free, all ages welcome.

On January 18th, 1984, the Edmond Historical Society was chartered to foster an understanding and appreciation of Edmond history and to save “items of historical consequence.” Now, 40 years later, the museum has built upon that foundation by creating many award-winning exhibits and programs, achieving record attendance numbers in 2024, and housing 43,000 artifacts!

Museum’s Early History:

The idea for the museum was born in 1983, as citizens began to anticipate Edmond’s centennial year of 1989. They had a desire to save Edmond’s pioneer history before too many generations passed and the stories disappeared. The Articles of Incorporation was filed and approved on January 18, 1984. By April of 1984, volunteer Quimby Entertline, was coordinating efforts, and the museum officially opened in one room of the Armory in 1985. By 1988, the Thunderbird Room (now the children’s area) was renovated for displays, just in time for Edmond’s 100th Anniversary.

The museum grew and improved through the 1990s, gaining its first computer, adding the genealogy library, and eventually expanding into the entire Armory. In 1991, the Armory was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the first employee, Brenda Granger, was hired as director in 1994.

“The museum continues to improve every year,” said Curator, Derek Lee, who started at the museum in 2013. “When I started the gallery looked a lot like it did in the 1990s, with many exhibits and artifacts on display for years. Since then the staff has worked hard to make sure exhibits and artifacts change regularly."

“If Quimby was still alive, I think he would be pleased by the museum’s growth and professionalism, and I think he would be proud of our achievements,” said Amy Stephens, museum director. “Every day, I hear comments from visitors

who enjoyed their time in the museum. Without a doubt, they are walking away with an appreciation of Edmond history—which was the goal from the beginning.”

About the Party:

To kick off the birthday party, the Edmond Chamber will host a Ribbon Cutting at 3:15pm, followed by birthday cake and children’s activities. Enter door prize drawings for an Edmond Mural Pillow ($35 value) and prints of Downtown Edmond, created by artist, Greg Burns.

The curator has selected some of the first arti-

facts accessioned into the museum’s collection for public display at the party, including the first photograph, a panorama of 1st & Broadway from around 1915; a small, beaded purse that belonged to the Kunc family and dates to 1870; and a cloth napkin from the Royce Cafe. The first copy of the articles of incorporation from 1984 will also be on display.

Museum Information: Edmond History Museum hours are 10:00-5:00 Monday – Friday, and 1:004:00 Saturday. Please visit the museum website at www.edmondhistory.org or by calling the museum at 405-340-0078 to learn more.

From Page 1

”The NorthCare site at 820 W. 15 St., Edmond, provides outpatient assessment, crisis intervention, therapy, psychiatric services, peer services, case management and support/advocacy services for ages six through adulthood. There is also an outpatient (and crisis site) in Guthrie that serves Logan County.

“Due to cultural stigma for those needing the services we provide, we do not tend to get the opportunity to provide services until it is an acute or crisis situation,” Hiel said. “Usually at that time other local/state/federal services are involved -law enforcement, DHS, EMS, etc. In many cases these acute/crisis situations can be lethal or incredibly costly -- financially, mentally, emotionally -- to the public as a whole. Think about the costs of the days off sick, the cost of emergency services, the effects on the families/friends/coworkers/customers.”Because he works in the crisis services side of NorthCare, Hiel said he tends to see people on at least one of the worst days of their life.

“Having the opportunity to provide an individual on their worst day with words of respect, a glimmer of hope, a listening ear, a helpful smile, the safety to get their feet back under them and the heart to point the toe of the first step in their journey to recovery -- that is why I work in this field,” Hiel said. “It is their journey, I get the gift of shining a flashlight on their path, holding the other end of the log as clear their path or just walking alongside them through the dark parts. What more could you ask?”

He said NorthCare could not do a lot of what it does without its partners: the City of Edmond, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Association Administration (Federal) and a whole host of others, including law enforcement (Edmond Police Department, Logan County Sheriff’s Department, OKC Police Department, Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Department), Variety Care, Edmond Public Schools and a host of others.

“What we do is truly a community effort,” Hiel said.Chief Younger agreed.

“I am excited to see Edmond’s continued progress on this important topic,” he said.Services at NorthCare’s facilities can be initiated through calling the office at (405) 858-2700. Staff will provide instructions to the closest NorthCare service.

The NorthCare site at 820 W. 15 St., Edmond, provides outpatient assessment, crisis intervention, therapy, psychiatric services, peer services, case management and support/advocacy services for ages six through adulthood

The Gourmet Gallery, located in Edmond Market Place at 3325 S. Boulevard, Suite 107, will have a Pre-Inventory Blow Out Sale on Friday, Jan. 17 and Saturday, Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Our trained staff will be available to make suggestions for comfort food, Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day and March Madness along with samples.

There will be 20% off storewide will be offered. Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up and try something new.

For more information please contact The Gourmet Gallery at 715-3663.

Former Trans. of Secretary dies at age 89

State leaders herald Neal McCaleb’s legacy

By Steve Lackmeyer

The Oklahoman

Neal McCaleb was remembered last week as an advocate for Native Americans, a public servant and powerful force for improving Oklahoma’s highways and turnpikes.

Services for McCaleb, who died Tuesday at the age of 89, are set for 2 p.m. Jan. 16 at Henderson Hills Baptist Church in Edmond.

McCaleb was first elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 1974 and was House minority leader during George Nigh’s first full term as governor.

Nigh said Thursday that McCaleb was a leader who had a passion for Oklahoma and didn’t let political differences get in the way of doing what was best for his state.

“He was an example of someone who very much wanted to help other people,” Nigh said. “It wasn’t just about him being in office — he wanted to be a servant.”

Neal McCaleb was Oklahoma's first transportation secretary

After an unsuccessful run for governor in 1982, McCaleb retired from the state Legislature and was then appointed by Gov. Henry Bellmon to oversee the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and serve as the state’s first transportation secretary.

When Bellmon’s term as governor ended in 1991, McCaleb became the president of the Oklahoma Good Roads and Transportation Association, a group that lobbied for highway funding.

He was then appointed by Gov. Frank Keating in 1995 to again serve as transportation secretary and director of the state Transportation Department in addition to overseeing the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority.

During his time in those positions under Bellmon and Keating, McCaleb launched an ambitious road-building program that included reconstruction of Interstate 35 and Broadway Extension and the relocation of Interstate 40 south of downtown.

As transportation secretary under

Bellmon, he helped guide the $385.4 million construction of the Cherokee Turnpike and the first sections of the Kilpatrick, Creek and Chickasaw turnpikes.

During his second stint under Keating, construction started on extensions of the Kilpatrick and H.E. Bailey turnpikes.

Transportation Department Director Tim Gatz and Turnpike Director Joe Echelle released a joint statement praising McCaleb’s legacy, saying he left the state’s highway network “forever changed for the better.”

“Spanning three decades, he applied his extensive knowledge to shaping Oklahoma’s highways, interstates and turnpikes, following the legacy of his father, Burt, who served as ODOT Chief Engineer,” Gatz and Echelle said.

“McCaleb was instrumental in the development of the Capital Improvement Program, known as the Billion Dollar Road Program for the improvement of state highways having been allocated funding from the governor and Legislature in 1997 and 1998 and oversaw bringing Amtrak passenger rail service back to Oklahoma,” They added. “He expanded turnpike mileage with the John Kilpatrick Turnpike in Oklahoma City, Creek Turnpike in Tulsa and Chickasaw Turnpike near Ada/Sulphur; and developed advanced electronic toll collection using the PIKEPASS system; among many other accomplishments.”

McCaleb left Oklahoma in 2001 when he was appointed assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior for Indian Affairs by President George W. Bush. He served in that position through 2002, at which time he was named an adviser to Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby. In that role, he was tasked with developing long-term economic development plans.

“Neal dedicated his life to serving others,” Anoatubby said. “As U.S. assistant secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs, Oklahoma secretary of transportation, an Oklahoma state representative and serving multiple roles in the Chickasaw Nation, most recently as ambassador-at-large, Neal’s legacy of service has impacted countless lives across the United States.”

McCaleb

(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.)

Dec. 30

Romay Christopher Abdullahi, 31 homeless. Public intoxication.

Mark Lewis Tribble, 65 homeless . (Misdemeanor) larceny of lost property and three misdemeanor warrants.

Windell Antonio Franklin 45 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

John Glenn Allen, 44, of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS and (Misdemeanor first and second offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer.

Melissa Renee Allen, 42 of Oklahoma City. Resisting arrest, possess CDS and (Misdemeanor first and second offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer.

Dec. 31

Amanda Renae Ray, 38 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Michael Lee Oliver, 37 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and public intoxication.

Amanda Nichole Johnson, 31 of Tuttle. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Jan. 1

Cory Evan Nichols, 23 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Timothy Ray Britt, 54 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Mariah Mae Wanpen Otsuka, 21 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Eugenia Nicole Calhoun, 47 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Tavion Alan Edwards, 21 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Jazmine Trishe Neal, 32 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance, expired tag – over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Ryder Wade Curtis, 32 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Jan. 2

Keshonia Nashay Henderson, 29 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Bradley Joseph Benedict, 51 of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault (strangulation) and (felony) domestic abuse, assault and battery.

Christopher John Cannon, 50 of Edmond. Failure to devote full-time attention to driving and driving without proper/valid driver’s license.

Jan. 3

Shawna Jean Barney, 48 of Oklahoma City. Speeding, operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and possess CDS.

Saul Marvin Ortiz Jr., 25 of Oklahoma City. Trafficking in illegal drugs and possess drug paraphernalia.

Henry Martin Fairbanks, 26 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Ann Marie Hamissou, 42 of Edmond. Petty larceny

Jan. 4

Tino Deshon Braxton Jr., 20 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor first offense) Domestic abuse assault in presence of a minor child.

Damion Dwan Gilbreath, 50 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant.

Emilio Malachi Vega, 18 of Edmond. Speeding (16-20 mph over) and driving without a proper/valid driver’s license.

Connor Lee Akins, 34 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Stephan Pokun, 52 of Aurora, Colo. Stop sign violation, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Alexander Michael Biggins, 34 of Minco. Shoplifting – petit larceny.

Romay Christopher Abudallahi, 31 homeless. Possess CDS and possess drug paraphernalia.

Lucas Gabriel Lindsey, 23 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Jan. 5

Trent Dee Mahaney, 25 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Tiara Clotiel Frazier-Tanner, 30 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and non-assault resisting officer.

Wenzhi Jiang, 37 of Edmond. Shoplifting –petit larceny.

Gael Valentin Flores, 20 of Edmond. Expired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance and driving without proper/valid driver’s license.

Tauriawn Latrell Knight, 25 of Oklahoma City. Burglary in the first degree and murder in the first degree.

Donald James Fragale, 42 homeless. Expired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Kathleen Ann Howell, 54 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting – petit larceny.

Weekend Calendar of events Jan. 16-19

Weekend Calendar of Events Jan. 16-19

--- In the Gallery

--- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market

--- Board Game Night

--- Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered

--- Edmond Ice Rink

--- Devon Ice Rink

--- Downtown in December

--- Karaoke Thursdays

--- Acoustic Nights

--- Beer + Yoga

--- International Finals Rodeo

--- UCO Jazz Lab

--- Celtic Throne II – Psalter of Ireland

--- Cattlemen’s Congress

--- National Pigeon Association Grand National Show

--- Oklahoma City Opera presents: “Nothin Betta Than Operetta”

--- Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show

--- Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. –5 p.m.; Free; Featuring local artists Natalie Biggs and Eric Lyons; edmondfinearts.com

Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market

Location: Festival Market Place and Farmers Market

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 9 – Sat, Mar 22; 9 a.m. –12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.com

Board Game Night

Location: MAC in Mitch Park

Extra Info: recurring monthly on the 1st Saturday through Sat, Dec 6, 2025; edmondokcivicrec.com

Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered

Location: Armstrong Auditorium

Extra Info: Mon, Feb 26 – Fri, Jan 17, 2025; Free; Mon – Thu: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Fri & Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; closed Saturdays; armstrongauditorium.org

Edmond Ice Rink

Location: Mitch Park

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 8 – Mon, Jan 20; edmondicerink.com

Devon Ice Rink

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 8 – Sun, Feb 2; Mon – Wed: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 12 – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

Downtown in December Location: Downtown OKC

Extra Info: Thu, Nov 14 – Tue, Feb 4; downtownindecember.com

Karaoke Thursdays

Location: The Frosted Mug, 1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite 107, Edmond, OK

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; Free; 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; frostedmugedmond.com

Acoustic Nights

Location: The Frosted Mug, 1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite 107, Edmond, OK

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Friday; 8 p.m. –1 a.m.; Free; frostedmugedmond.com

Beer + Yoga

Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project

Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; americansolera.com

International Finals Rodeo

Location: Lazy E Arena

Extra Info: Thu, Jan 16 – Sun, Jan 19; $25; 7:30 – 10 p.m.; recurring daily; ipa-rodeo.com

UCO Jazz Lab

Location: University of Central Oklahoma --- Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 17: The New Nelson Gonzalez Group @ 8 p.m.; $15; Sat, Jan 18: The Sam Vaughn Quartet @ 8 p.m.; $15; calendar.uco.edu

Celtic Throne II – Psalter of Ireland

Location: Armstrong Auditorium

Extra Info: Sun, Jan 19; Adults: $35; Youth: from $25; 2 – 4:15 p.m.; celticthrone.com

Cattlemen’s Congress

Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds

Extra Info: Sat, Jan 4 – Wed, Jan 16; cattlemenscongress.com

National Pigeon Association

Grand National Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Thu, Jan 16 – Fri, Jan 17; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; npausa.com

Oklahoma City Opera presents: “Nothin Betta Than Operetta”

Location: OK Cider. Co

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 17; 8 – 9:30 p.m.; Facebook.com

Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 17 – Sun, Jan 19; Fri: 12 – 8 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; oklahomacityhomeshow.com

Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Sat, Jan 18 – Sun, Jan 19; Sat: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okcgun.show

The Lazy E Arena will be having plenty of rodeo action this weekend.

Exercise — at any age is important. If you’re 50, or over, you need to select the right activity.

Fitness classes for the over-50 crowd

Exercise is a pillar of a healthy lifestyle. When individuals exercise regularly and pair physical activity with a healthy diet and smart lifestyle choices, they can extend their life expectancies and sleep well knowing they’re doing everything they can to increase their chances of enjoying a limitless retirement.

Adults over 50 know it’s not always so easy to exercise. Hectic schedules can make it seem like there’s little time for exercise. And even when adults make time to break a sweat, they might find that traditional workouts combining strength training with cardiovascular exercise are too time-consuming and possibly even a little dull. In such instances, fitness classes can take the place of more traditional exercise regimens. Various classes provide a challenging workout, and many can do so in an hour or less.

• Pilates: Improving balance, core strength and flexibility are three goals of Pilates. Pilates has an interesting history, as it was created by Joseph Pilates, a German prisoner of war who was imprisoned off the coast of England during World War I. Pilates and the exercising phenomenon he created ultimately made their way to the United States,

where the routine was embraced by dancers looking for a way to aid their injury recovery. Pilates is now part of millions of individuals’ exercise regimens. This low-impact exercise is designed to strengthen muscles and improve alignment and flexibility. Achieving greater balance after 50 pays untold dividends for older adults, who can decrease their risk for falls and fall-related injuries by increasing their steadiness.

• Spin: Spin classes are a wildly popular exercise program that utilizes cycling to help people break a sweat. Cardiovascular exercise is beneficial for a number of reasons, including its connection to heart health and even cognitive health. But many people lament daily sessions on a treadmill or elliptical that they find boring. Spin classes involve the use of stationary bikes, but instructors typically guide class members through conditions that mimic outdoor cycling sessions. Resistance and pedaling speed changes throughout a spin class, which serves to keep individuals engaged and burn lots of calories.

• Kickboxing: Sometimes referred to as Krav Maga, kickboxing is another unique and challeng-

ing class offered at many fitness facilities. Martial arts like kickboxing assist with weight loss and can help people improve their muscle tone, flexibility and stamina. Adults over 50 who are not accustomed to physical activity may find their energy levels are low, but a few kickboxing sessions may produce noticeable differences in stamina. The balance benefits of kickboxing are similar to those provided by Pilates, so this activity may be particularly beneficial for adults over 50 looking to reduce their vulnerability to falls as they grow older.

• Dance: Dancing is widely seen as a fun activity, and rightfully so, as few things can be as enjoyable as cutting a rug. But dancing also provides a great cardiovascular workout. Local community centers and even some fitness facilities offer age-specific dancing classes, which the AARP notes are great for individuals who want to build core strength, improve bone health and protect their heart.

Adults over 50 who want to be more physically active can look to any number of fitness classes to break a sweat, build strength and have fun all at once.

FROM METRO NEWS

Edmond Club celebrates the holidays

Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Gamma Zeta chapter celebrated the Christmas holiday with a pot-luck dinner in the home of Linda Coniglio. Good food, heartwarming stories, and a Christmas ornament exchange were enjoyed by all.

Epsilon Sigma Alpha is an international service organization that creates activities and supports causes that lets us surround ourselves with welcoming, positive people who enjoy making a difference in our community and having fun together. ESA provides leadership training, educational programs, and community service. Through a network of 1,200 chapters in the U.S. and abroad, an ESA member has the opportunity to form life-long friendships and share the power to make a difference. That difference is felt close to home and in far-reaching ways by participation in community service and major philanthropic projects. Come join the fun and get involved. Contact Jacci Gantz at 405-922-5954 for more information.

Recognition given at meeting

Gamma Zeta President Jacque Cantrel presents Christine Merideth with her jewel pin at recent Epsilon Sigma Alpha Gamma Zeta meeting. Epsilon Sigma Alpha programs and projects help members make a positive difference in the lives of others and in their own lives, both personally and professionally. The organization excels in community education, service, and philanthropy. “Hands-on” philanthropic endeavors provide more than 650,000 hours of direct service to those in need. ESA’s unique programs provide each member with the training, education, and support they need to promote successful public service, while developing personal and professional skills in management, public relations, and overall leadership. ESA has long been known as an organization on the cutting edge. Always ahead of its time, ESA continues to blaze new trails for enhancing volunteerism.

Discussion on ‘fun journeys’ in Hawaii

Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Gamma Zeta member Shirley Moore gave a fascinating educational on fun journeys to take in Hawaii.

Moore talked about the Turtle Canyon snorkel adventure in Waukki, Oahu, the grand tour of the islands, Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, and Mauka Warriors’ Luau honoring Polynesian forgotten history. As a renowned artist, Moore described the beautiful sunsets, landscapes, and scenic rides to the Byodo-In Temple and the Dole Plantation that inspired her. Also available for tourists are sailing, whale watching, shark dives, and helicopter and trolley rides around the islands. Several members had visited Hawaii. Two members were actually married in Hawaii so a vibrant discussion followed the educational.

U.S. Sen. James Lankford

New federal legislation seeks to prevent tragedies

Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Katie Britt (R-AL) last week announced the introduction of the Laken Riley Act, along with the entire Senate Republican Conference.

This legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Mike Collins (R-GA).

“It’s impossible to fully describe what was taken from Laken and from our family on February 22, 2024. Laken’s life was abundantly and exceptionally full of promise. She was a beautiful, shining beacon in the life of everyone who knew her. Not only did the people who knew and loved Laken lose a beautiful soul, but so did our world. Laken shared her love for Jesus with everyone she encountered. Laken's passion for sharing her faith through acts of kindness were felt by everyone she met. Laken was selfless, hardworking and made those around her feel special. Laken did not just talk about her faith, she led by example,” said Allyson and John Phillips, Laken Riley’s mother and stepfather. “The Laken Riley Act has our full support because it would help save innocent lives and prevent more families from going through the kind of heartbreak we’ve experienced. Laken would have been 23 on January 10th. There is no greater gift that could be given to her and our country than to continue her legacy by saving lives through this bill. Every single member of Congress should be able to get behind this purely commonsense bill that will make our country and communities safer. We thank Congressman Mike Collins,

Senator Katie Britt, and Senator Ted Budd for continuing to work to honor Laken’s legacy and get this legislation enacted into law.”

“Laken Riley’s painful story is an example of what could happen in any neighborhood across Oklahoma, because of an open border. Open border policies welcome criminals to roam our streets which must not happen under any administration,” said Lankford.

“Last year, Laken Riley was stolen from this earth — from her family and friends and from achieving her dreams — by a brutal, heartless killer. Make no mistake — he never should have been in the United States, much less allowed to freely roam American streets after being charged with multiple crimes. Laken’s murder was the direct consequence of willful open border policies,” said Britt. “The American people did not just deliver a mandate on November 5th, they delivered a verdict. They made it clear they want to remove criminal illegal aliens and protect American families. We will soon know whether Democrats hear, respect, and obey that verdict. Congress has an obligation to Laken, her family, and to families in every corner of our country to do everything in our power to help prevent this type of tragedy from occurring again. That’s why it’s imperative we pass the commonsense Laken Riley Act with all due haste. No other American family needs to feel the pain Laken’s family still feels 320 days after losing her.”

Small Winter Visitor

A pedestrian in Downtown Edmond — takes a pic of a small snowman. Ed-

mond, and the rest of the metro last week, had three and a half inches of snowfall.

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Surviving the snow

By Steve Gust

We seemed to have survived the first real winter blast of the year.

Snow amounts must be one of the harder weather events to accurately predict – although it must be noted that “experts” can accurately tell you what the average temperature of the earth will be 50 years from now. (Actually they can’t – but that’s a topic for another time.)

Bad weather must be a real headache for school superintendents. That’s one decision I’m glad I don’t have to make.

But when they do decide to postpone or cancel school, it’s great news for the kiddos.

Most adults get some time off also – but that isn’t always the case. I remember years ago, a real bad storm brought most everything to a halt around here. The fast food places near the mall didn’t even open. And yet some employers at a few call centers insisted their workforce be present. Some of the people simply couldn’t make it in. And they were fired. That seemed a bit extreme to me.

But just remember to take it easy if you do have to drive. Take your time and keep an eye out for others.

Next week at this time, we’ll have a new president. I’m thankful for that. Speaking of presidents, it reminds me of a saying I heard time and time again growing up. People used to say that the modern press, unlike the people in the 1930s, would have fully exposed FDR for using a wheelchair.

After these past four years, I’m not sure. If the modern press liked FDR they would exclude such footage. People who argued he used a wheelchair would have been called conspiracy theorists or kooks.The modern press would claim that any footage showing the president in a wheelchair was from a much earlier skiing accident.

And if you think that’s farfetched, then look at how the press covered for Biden these past four years. The guy has cognitive problems. But his defenders said such talk came only from conspiracy folks who mocked a man’s stutter.

I still would like to know who arranged for Biden to be in a June presidential debate. That was before the conventions. I’ve never seen that before. I wonder if someone on Biden’s side pushed him into that debate – knowing there would be an outcry to drop him from the ticket.

We may never know.

Neal McCaleb’s service hailed

Edmond lawmakers react to passing

Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, and Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond, released the following statements on the passing of Edmond resident Neal McCaleb. McCaleb formerly served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, as Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation and Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs under President George W. Bush.

“Neal McCaleb was a remarkable leader whose contributions to the State of Oklahoma will resonate for generations. His advocacy for Native American communities and tireless efforts to improve transportation infrastructure benefited countless communities across the state. Neal’s vision and dedication made Oklahoma stronger and more connected. His leadership went beyond policy, as he was deeply dedicated to the well-being of others, always striving to make Oklahoma a better place. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him as we mourn the loss of a true public servant.”

-Senator Adam Pugh

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Neal McCaleb, a true statesman and

Lankford once more seeks to ‘Lock the Clock’

WASHINGTON, DC – Senators James Lankford (ROK) and Rick Scott (R-FL) introduced the Sunshine Protection Act, to officially “lock the clock” and end the twice-yearly time change and make Daylight Saving Time (DST) the national year-round standard.

“Twice a year Oklahomans ask themselves—why do we still have to change our clocks? Moms of young children dread the time of year when clocks change, but babies’ schedules don’t. It is past time to get this bill to the President’s desk so we can stop the annoying twice-a-year reset of the clocks. Let’s lock the clocks,” Lankford said.

“I hear from Americans constantly that they are sick and tired of changing their clocks twice a year –it’s an unnecessary, decades-old practice that’s more of an annoyance to families than benefit to them. In 2018, as Governor of Florida, I signed legislation that would allow the state to opt out of the practice of changing the time and I’ve been a leading effort in getting this done on the federal level. I’m excited to have President Trump back in the White House and fully on board to LOCK THE CLOCK so we can get

this good bill passed and make this common-sense change that will simplify and benefit the lives of American families,” Scott said.

Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Rand Paul (R-KY), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Ed Markey (R-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Katie Britt (R-AL) cosponsored this legislation. The Senate unanimously passed the Sunshine Protection Act in the 117th Congress.

This bill would apply to states who currently participate in DST, which most states observe for eight months out of the year. Standard Time, from November to March, is only observed for four months out of the year. The bill would simply negate the need for Americans to change their clocks twice a year. Many studies have shown that making DST permanent could benefit the economy and the country. Lankford and Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) penned an opinion piece on why Daylight Saving Time should be permanent.

Letters to the Editor policy

We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters:

1) You must tell us your full name;

2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and

3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034. or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

a dedicated public servant who made an indelible mark on Oklahoma. He was a man of integrity, and his passion for service was always evident in every role he held, from his time as a state representative, to his leadership at the federal level and beyond. Neal impacted the lives of countless Oklahomans, including mine, and his loss will be felt for years to come. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.” - Representative Mike Osburn

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Rep. David Smith, R-Arpelar, has filed the "Rural Volunteer Firefighter Clothing Allowance Grants Act."

House Bill 1078 is eligible for consideration in the upcoming legislative session, which starts Feb. 3.

"Rural volunteer firefighters work at their own expense to keep their friends and neighbors safe from the devastating effects of fire," Smith said. "They are the first-line of defense in protecting lives, homes and businesses. This clothing allowance will help alleviate some of their personal cost and could help incentivize recruitment and retainment."

Smith last fall held an interim study to examine issues surrounding recruiting and retaining volunteer rural firefighters. The idea for the legislation came from the study.

HB1078 would create a revolving fund in the state treasury to be administered by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for the benefit of rural volunteer firefighters. The fund would consist of all monies received by the department from legislative appropriations, donations, grants or other sources of funding specifically designated for this purpose. The fund would be continuing and not limited to fiscal year limitations.

The Oklahoma State Board of Agriculture would be charged with developing procedures for the disbursement of the clothing allowance to reimburse eligible applicants for approved purchases and to maintain oversight of the grant awards.

To be eligible, an applicant must be a member of a certified Oklahoma fire department, must have responded to at least 75% of the fire department responses during the fiscal year, and must have completed 24 hours of firefighter training during the fiscal year.

Stitt issues NIL order

Last week Governor Kevin Stitt signed Executive Order 2025-01, an action designed to ensure that Oklahoma’s postsecondary institutions and their student-athletes remain competitive in the evolving landscape of intercollegiate athletics. This order enables institutions to facilitate direct payments to student-athletes for the use of their name, image, and likeness (NIL) while federal and legal decisions surrounding NIL payments remain pending. The order accomplishes this while preventing taxpayer dollars from being used on NIL deals.

“Oklahoma is home to some of the nation’s most outstanding student-athletes,” said Governor Stitt. “This executive order ensures that these student-athletes have access to the same opportunities as their peers in other states. It’s about leveling the playing field and maintaining the competitive edge that defines Oklahoma athletics. This action is a critical step to protect Oklahoma’s student-athletes and ensures they have the opportunity to succeed on and off the field.”

The order allows for the creation of foundations that will act as a clearing house for entities to contribute to NIL funds without fear of retaliation or investigation from athletic organizations such as the NCAA or athletic conferences. The order also ensures that Oklahoma taxpayer dollars will not be used for these payments.

This proactive measure addresses the inconsistent national rules governing NIL payments, which have created uncertainty and disparity among states and athletic conferences. Oklahoma institutions, which belong to different conferences with varying regulations, faced potential disadvantages that this order seeks to mitigate.

Key provisions of the executive order include:

Authorization for Oklahoma postsecondary institutions to facilitate NIL payments to student-athletes.

Protection for institutions and individuals from investigations or adverse actions by athletic organizations for engaging in NIL-related activities.

Restrictions preventing the use of state-allocated funds for NIL payments.

Small Missouri town touts Churchill Museum

By Elaine Warner

In the pantheon of architects, Sir Christopher Wren’s name stands out.

Following the Great Fire of London in 1666, he was commissioned by King Charles II to rebuild a number of ruined churches, including St. Paul’s Cathedral. Visitors to London can visit two dozen of the surviving structures. And visitors to Fulton, Missouri can visit another. This brings up an obvious question, “What is a London Christopher Wren masterpiece doing in a small town in mid-Missouri?”

The answer requires a look at history. England’s Prime Minister Winston Churchill had guided his country through the horrors of World War II. He was hailed as a hero throughout Great Britain. And yet, in a national election in July of 1945, his Tory party was roundly defeated and Churchill, as was the custom, handed his resignation to King George VI.

The defeat was a crushing blow to Churchill. Suffering from bouts of depression, he spent much time in the south of France. During this time, he also concentrated on painting, a pastime he had turned to often in the past to clear his mind and relieve stress.

Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, was a small, all-male institution, nearly 100 years old in 1945.

The school had received a grant funding lectures by internationally-known speakers.

The college president sent a letter to Churchill inviting him to come to Fulton. At the bottom of the letter, President Harry Truman had added, “This is a wonderful school in my home state. Hope you can do it. I’ll introduce you. Best regards, Harry Truman.”

The invitation was accepted. And the words of the former prime minister went down in history.

On March 5, 1946, Churchill delivered a speech entitled “The Sinews of Peace” containing the line,” From Stettin in the Baltic to Trieste in the Adriatic an iron curtain has descended across the continent.” He warned of the danger of the Soviet Union and communism to the free world, urged the newly formed United Nations to work diligently for world peace and encouraged a closer alliance between the United States and Great Britain. The speech became known as “Iron Curtain” speech and received world-wide attention.

In 1961 the Westminster College president and supporters, spurred by an article in “Life Magazine,” came up with the preposterous idea of honoring Churchill with the reconstruction of one of the Wren

churches damaged in the Blitz in World War II – but not in London –on the Westminster campus.

After raising funds and obtaining permission from both British officials and Church authorities, the first symbolic shovel of dirt was turned by President Truman in April, 1964. The reconstruction of the church of Saint Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury, had begun.

Much of the original church was destroyed in 1940; only the outer walls, columns and bell tower remained. In 1965 workmen began disassembling the ruins, numbering each of the 7000 stones and noting their locations. In all, 650 tons of building blocks traveled by ship, rail and truck to Fulton. The reconstruction was completed and the church dedicated in 1969.

The interior of the church was replicated using early photographs, examining other standing Wren churches and obtaining pieces from other period structures. Twelve original columns now line the sides of the center aisle, seven with their original Corinthian capitals.

Replicas of Wren chandeliers hang from the ceiling. Intricate plaster ceiling ornamentation was created from molds sent from London. Woodwork includes several pieces from a Wrendesigned London church demolished

in 1878. Other woodwork was carved in English Oak by Arthur Ayers (London) in the style of Grinling Gibbons, who was employed by Wren for carvings at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Clear glass windows were a main feature of Wren’s churches. According to him, “God’s greatest gift to man is light.” Blenko Glass of West Virginia duplicated Wren’s original hand-blown windows

In a large case, silver Victorian communion pieces, which had been stored in the church safe and survived the Blitz, are displayed. The oldest remnants of St. Mary’s are belfry steps from the 11th century church. These are not on the public tour, but if you’re really interested, you might ask for a peek at them. Jack and I were fortunate to have a private tour by museum director and chief curator, Timothy Riley. He even played a few notes on the organ, a 1960s construction of a 17th century instrument. The 1741 organ case came from Woolwich Parish Church in Kent. The interior of the church is currently closed to the public due to construction work on the exterior, but should be open again early next summer.

The Churchill Museum in the crypt of the church is open and a primary reason to visit. Detailed graphics and photos tell the story of one of the greatest figures of the 20th century from Churchill’s childhood, experiences in three wars (Boer, World War I and World War II) and his amazing, roller-coaster career as a politician. A copy of the letter inviting him to Fulton in 1945, the chair he sat in and the lectern he used for the Iron Curtain speech, are also on display.

Currently, “Winston Churchill: A Passion for Painting” is on exhibit through the end of the year. It includes seven of Churchill’s original oil paintings.

On the grounds of the museum is a sculpture, “Breakthrough”, created by Churchill’s granddaughter, artist Edwina Sandys. She’d long wanted to create a piece for the museum and found the opportunity with the destruction of the Berlin Wall. Acquiring eight sections, each four feet wide, she cut silhouetted figures through the wall symbolizing freedom..

Even with the interior of the church inaccessible, it’s worth the 460 mile trip from Norman just to see this site. For us it was a part of a week-long road trip with several other stops.

My next column will suggest other things to do and see in Fulton. The town is has more treats on offer –just make sure you plan several hours at America’s National Churchill Museum.

The sculpture ‘Iron Curtain’ by Don Weigand stands by the entrance to the National Churchill Museum in the crypt of St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury.

This photo of Winston Churchill in the museum is accompanied by a quote – ‘A powerful and cunning politician … He was the strongest personality in the capitalist world’ – from Joseph Stalin

Elaine Winston Churchill, born in 1874, was raised by a nanny and, at age seven, was sent to the first of several boarding schools

How to help loved ones with a mental illness

By Jaira Draper, LPC Edmond Family Counseling

Mental illness affects millions of individuals worldwide, yet the struggles associated with these conditions often remain hidden. When a loved one grapples with mental health challenges, it can be difficult to know how to provide effective support. However, understanding the nature of mental illness and employing compassionate strategies can make a significant difference in their journey toward recovery.

Understanding Mental Illness Mental illnesses encompass a range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. This includes depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and many others. Each condition presents unique challenges, and symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Understanding that mental illness is not a personal failing, but a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors is the first step in providing meaningful support.

Educate Yourself

One of the most effective ways to support a loved one is to educate yourself about their specific condition. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms, treatment options, and coping strategies associated with their mental illness. Books, reputable websites, and support groups can provide valuable insights. This knowledge not only helps you understand what your loved one is experiencing but also demonstrates your commitment to their well-being.

Open the Lines of Communication

Creating a safe space for open and honest communication is essential. Encourage your loved one to share their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. Use active listening techniques, such as reflecting back what they say and validating their emotions, to show that you care. Phrases like “I’m here for you” or “It’s okay to feel this way” can help them feel understood and supported.

Be Patient and Non-Judgmental

Mental illness can be unpredictable, and your loved one may have good days and bad days. Patience is crucial. Avoid placing pressure on them to “snap out of it” or “think positively.” Instead, acknowledge their feelings and let them know that it’s okay to have difficult days. Your non-judgmental attitude can foster trust and encourage them to reach out for help when needed.

Encourage Professional Help

While your support is invaluable, it’s important to recognize that you are not a substitute for professional help. Encourage your loved one to seek therapy or counseling from a qualified mental health professional. Offer to help them research options, accompany them to appointments, or assist with logistics if they feel overwhelmed. Highlighting the benefits of professional support can help reduce any stigma they might feel about seeking help.

Offer Practical Support

Sometimes, the weight of daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming for someone with a mental illness. Offering practical support can be tremendously beneficial. This can include:

Accompanying them to appointments

Providing transportation or simply being there for moral support can alleviate anxiety about seeking help.

Assisting with daily tasks

Helping with grocery shopping, cooking, or household chores can relieve some of their burdens.

Engaging in enjoyable activities

Invite them to participate in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed, but be sensitive to their energy levels and willingness.

Promote Healthy Habits

Encouraging a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on mental health. Suggest engaging in activities together that promote physical and emotional well-being, such as:

Exercise

Physical activity can boost mood and reduce anxiety. Consider going for walks, joining a fitness class, or practicing yoga together.

Mindfulness and Relaxation

Introduce them to mindfulness practices, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises, which can help reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.

Healthy Eating

Offer to prepare nutritious meals together or discuss the importance of a balanced diet in supporting mental health.

Be There in Crisis

If your loved one experiences a crisis, it’s crucial to know how to respond. Stay calm and listen to their needs. If they express thoughts of self-harm or suicide, take them seriously. Encourage them to reach out to a mental health professional or crisis hotline. Keeping emergency contact numbers readily available can also be beneficial.

Take Care of Yourself

Supporting a loved one with mental illness can be emotionally draining. It’s essential to prioritize your own mental health as well. Set boundaries to ensure you don’t become overwhelmed, and seek support for yourself, whether through friends, family, or support groups. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup; taking care of yourself enables you to be there for your loved one more effectively.

In conclusion, supporting a loved one with mental illness is a journey that requires empathy, patience, and understanding. By educating yourself, maintaining open communication, encouraging professional help, and promoting healthy habits, you can make a positive impact on their recovery. Remember, every small action counts.

Jaira Draper, M.A., LPC is the Intern Coordinator and a staff therapist at Edmond Family Counseling. Edmond Family Counseling is a nonprofit organization. We may be reached at 405-341-3554 to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed professional counselors. Donations may be made to Edmond Family Counseling, 1251 N. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034, or online @ www.edmondfamily.org by clicking the YELLOW DONATE button. Follow us on our Facebook Page @ Edmond Family Counseling for additional information regarding mental health awareness.

Engagement, Wedding notices

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

Movie review of ‘Den of Thieves: Pantera’

Plot problems & other issues hamper film

By George Gust

“Den of Thieves: Pantera” is the follow up film to the 2018 new cult classic crime drama “Den of Thieves.” Big Nick (Gerard Butler) is back on the hunt in Europe and closing in on Donnie (O’Shea Jackson Jr.) , who is embroiled in the treacherous world of diamond thieves and the infamous Pantera mafia, as they plot a massive heist of the world's largest diamond exchange.

“Den of Thieves: Pantera” is a movie, much like its predecessor, that wears its cinematic influences on its sleeve for better and for worse. At its best, this movie is a fun exercise in gritty cop machismo in the same vein as the “Bad Boys” movies and the more prestigious heist action of “Heat” but in total the film can’t achieve the cohesion even the first film pulled off. And much of this lack of cohesion is due to the bloated runtime of nearly 2 and half hours that feels as shaggy and hairy as Butler’s ‘down and out’ haggard appearance in the film.

When you think of the forebearer for this genre of cop vs robber heist; “Heat” you have a square off between Pacino vs DeNiro, and while

it might not be fair to compare “Den of Thieves: Pantera” to the iconic classic “Heat” the duo of Butler vs Jackson Jr. leaves much to be desired. Jackson Jr. seems to be out of his depth in this movie. Where Pablo Schreiber posed a legitimate threat to Butler and crew in the first movie, Jackson Jr.’s performance has its moments of fun chemistry with Butler but lacks the gravitas to sell the danger and excitement of the films convoluted plot.

So “Den of Thieves: Pantera” is in no danger of being confused for highbrow cinema with well-drawn characters and gripping performances

(no surprise there) , but does it deliver on sweaty gritty action? Mostly Yes! The film has slick cinematography and features a finale that delivers on the promise that any heist movie worth its salt sets up; a roller coaster set piece that takes twists and turns to a satisfying conclusion. But for however thrilling the final sequence it cannot escape the issues that plague the film leading up to it.

The plot is nigh incomprehensible, and the character motivations feel like the filmmakers are telling the audience “Just go with it.” And for a film set in Europe there are large chunks of dialogue that are in a foreign language with no subtitles, a choice that supposedly adds to the verisimilitude, but does the plot no favors.

“Den of Thieves: Pantera” is rated R for pervasive language, some violence, drug use and sexual references.

2.5 out of 5 stars

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

O’Shea Jackson Jr. and Gerard Butler

2018’s new action

Rodeo action nears

For the 55th year, the International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA) will host the thrilling conclusion to the 2024 season at the International Finals Rodeo (IFR), set for Jan. 16-19, 2025, at the Fabulous Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, featuring the IPRA’s best athletes.

During this exciting 55th annual edition of the IFR, the top 15 of the association’s best will square off throughout four riveting performances of rodeo action. Accomplished Western sports athletes will compete for one of the most coveted titles in Western sports-the IPRA World Championship, and a piece of the impressive $500,000 total payout.

As the first rodeo association to introduce instant replay to its finals (in 2024) and breakaway roping (in 2011), the IPRA has been dedicated to furthering the sport of rodeo from its roots up.

This year, the IFR will see a variety of talent from Oklahoma natives and past NFR qualifiers Cody Doesher (steer wrestling) and Garrett Tribble (bull riding). As well as reigning IPRA world champions Heath King and Stephen Brittnell (team roping).

team up in ‘Den of Thieves: Pantera’ the caper follow up to

cult classic ‘Den of Thieves.’”

Special performance set Jan. 28 at Armstrong

Two world-renowned musical groups will join forces at Armstrong Auditorium for a rare collaboration. The Boston Brass and the 2024 GRAMMY-winning Imani Winds will perform at the Edmond concert hall Tuesday, January 28 at 7:30 p.m. The collaboration will feature music by the iconic, multi-GRAMMY-holder, Arturo Sandoval, Stevie Wonder’s wellknown “Overjoyed,” works of Paquito D’Rivera and Manuel De Falla, Billy May’s “Flight of the Green Hornet” and more.

“Each of these groups could command the Armstrong stage on its own,” said Program Director Ryan Malone. “But to have them collaborate like this will be a special treat for our audience.”

A highlight of the program is the premiere of Arturo Sandoval’s Metales y Maderas, a new composition for a double quintet featuring the exceptional talents of Boston Brass and Imani Winds. Sandoval states, “the piece flows freely, embracing the richness of Latino music, jazz, classical, and beyond.” Since 1986 Boston Brass has set out to establish a one-of-a-kind musical experience featuring colorful classical arrangements, burning jazz standards, and the best of original brass repertoire. Boston Brass treats audiences to a unique brand of musical entertainment that bridges the

ocean of classical formality, delighting regular concertgoers and newcomers alike with great music and boisterous fun in performances across all 50 U.S. states and over 30 countries.

Celebrating over a quarter century of music making, the twiceGRAMMY-nominated Imani Winds has led both a revolution and evolution of the wind quintet through their dynamic playing, adventurous programming, imaginative collaborations and outreach endeavors that have inspired audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

The ensemble’s playlist embraces traditional chamber music repertoire, and newly commissioned works from voices that reflect historical events and the times in which we currently live.

Tickets are available from $40 for adults and $35 for youth ages 6-17. Please visit ArmstrongAuditorium.org or call the Box Office at (405) 2851010.

Additionally, a world premiere archaeology exhibit is now open at the Armstrong Auditorium through January of 2025. ”Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered” showcases the antiquities of biblical Israel’s greatest kings, featuring over 50 artifacts, textiles and immersive technology. Admission is free. More at ArmstrongAuditorium.org/exhibit.

Boston Brass — scheduled to appear Jan. 28 at Armstrong Auditorium.

What to know about generators

If your electricity goes out, a generator can keep power flowing to your home or business. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), an international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of outdoor power equipment, small engines, battery power systems, portable generators, utility and personal transport vehicles, and golf cars, reminds home and business owners to keep safety in mind when using generators this winter.

“Not having power when you need it is frustrating, so a generator can provide emergency backup power at a reasonable cost,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI. “It’s important to follow all manufacturer’s instructions, and never place a generator in your garage or inside your home or building. It should be a safe distance from the structure and not near an air intake.”

More tips include:

#1 - Take stock of your generator. Make sure equipment is in good working order before starting and using it. Do this before a storm hits.

#2 – Review the directions. Follow all manufacturer’s instructions. Review the owner’s manuals (look manuals up online if you cannot find them) so equipment is operated safely.

#3 - Install a battery operated carbon monoxide detector in your home. This alarm will sound if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide

A generator can help keep one’s home warm during a bad storm. However, users need to review safety meawsures before they start a generator.

enter the building.

#4 - Have the right fuel on hand. Use the type of fuel recommended by the generator manufacturer to protect this important investment. It is illegal to use any fuel with more than 10% ethanol in outdoor power equipment. (For more information on proper fueling for outdoor power equipment visit https://www.opei.org/programs/eth anolwarning/). It’s best to use fresh fuel, but if you are using fuel that has been sitting in a gas can for more than 30 days, add fuel stabilizer to it. Store gas only in an approved container and away from heat sources.

#5 - Ensure portable generators have plenty of ventilation. Generators should NEVER be used in an enclosed

area or placed inside a home, a building, or a garage, even if the windows or doors are open. Place the generator outside and away from windows, doors, and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to drift indoors.

#6 - Keep the generator dry. Do not use a generator in wet conditions. Cover and vent a generator. Model-specific tents or generator covers can be found online for purchase and at home centers and hardware stores.

#7 - Only add fuel to a cool generator. Before refueling, turn the generator off and let it cool down.

#8 – Charge & use battery-powered generators/inverters properly. Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger

that is suitable for one type of battery pack may not be compatible with another battery pack. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or equipment outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery.

#9 - Plug in safely. If you don’t yet have a transfer switch, you can use the outlets on the generator. It’s best to plug in appliances directly to the generator. If you must use an extension cord, it should be heavy-duty and designed for outdoor use. It should be rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads. Make sure the cord is free of cuts, and the plug has all three prongs.

#10 - Install a transfer switch. A transfer switch connects the generator to the circuit panel and lets you power hardwired appliances. Most transfer switches also help avoid overload by displaying wattage usage levels.

#11 - Do not use the generator to “backfeed” power into your home electrical system. Trying to power your home’s electrical wiring by “backfeeding” – where you plug the generator into a wall outlet – is dangerous. You could hurt utility workers and neighbors served by the same transformer. Backfeeding bypasses built-in circuit protection devices, so you could damage your electronics or start an electrical fire.

Chamber names 2025 leaders

The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce recently announced its 2025 board of directors and officers. Kenneth Wohl with Regent Bank, will serve as chair of the board of directors. Jamey Mullin with Service Master by Eagle Eye, will serve as the chair elect for 2026 and Michelle Keylon with Francis Tuttle, will serve as the immediate past chair. Also serving on the executive committee will be Martha Ball, McDonald’s; Will Blanchard, Oklahoma Christian Academy; Kevin Freeman, UCO; and Brandon Rader, Rader Development.

Elected to new three-year terms on the board are Martha Ball, McDonald’s and Brad Weber, Crest Discount Foods. The following individuals were appointed to serve one-year terms on the board: Valerie Morrison, Morrison Cup Solutions; Josh Dougherty, CEC; and Makailyn Dillon, Oklahoma ER & Hospital.

They will join returning members of the board: Chris Anderson, The Grant Group; Evan Comer, Turn2Payments; Randy Decker, Edmond Public Schools; Jan Moran, AT&T; Jason Perez, Deer Creek Public Schools; Scot Rigby, City of Edmond; Jon Rule, Integris Health Edmond; Rex Shriner, Jetta Corporation; Chad Smith, Mercy; Jim Trent, BancFirst; and Angie Ward, MidFirst Bank.

State official says revenues improve

Oklahoma’s latest gross receipts report highlights a significant improvement in revenue collections for December 2024 compared to the previous month. While year-over-year numbers are slightly down, the month-over-month growth of 17 percent reflects positive economic momentum heading into the new year.

Key highlights from December’s report:

Income tax collections surged by 48.1 percent, marking a strong rebound in personal and corporate tax contributions.

Sales and use tax revenue increased by 0.9 percent, indicating steady consumer activity during the holiday season.

Gross production tax revenue

climbed by 18.8 percent, signaling a temporary recovery in the oil and gas sector.

Motor vehicle tax revenue rose by 20.5 percent, demonstrating strong demand in the auto market.

Treasurer Todd Russ commented on the report, stating, “While the state’s revenue trends may seem wobbly, this is typical for the current economic conditions caused by Fed adjustments.”

Recent Federal Reserve policies, including interest rate adjustments to combat inflation, have influenced consumer spending, investment activity, and business growth across the country. Higher borrowing costs have affected markets

Bitcoin may get serious attention at State Capitol

Sen. Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, has filed SB325, the Bitcoin Freedom Act, a bill that would allow Oklahoma employees to opt to receive payment in Bitcoin and enable vendors to accept Bitcoin payments.

“In a time when inflation is eroding the purchasing power of hard-working Oklahomans, Bitcoin provides a unique opportunity to protect earnings and investments,” Deevers said. “As Bitcoin continues to rise and the value of the dollar continues to be printed away in Washington D.C., Oklahoma

must act to protect our people.”

Bitcoin, a decentralized crypto currency with a fixed supply, is increasingly seen as a hedge against inflation. Unlike traditional currencies, which can be devalued by monetary policies as we have seen with the U.S. dollar in recent years, Bitcoin offers a promising alternative for preserving wealth. SB325 ensures that participation is entirely voluntary, respecting freemarket principles and empowering employees, employers, and businesses to choose the payment options that work best for them.

IRS announces that tax season starts on Jan. 27

The Internal Revenue Service last week announced that the nation’s 2025 tax season will start on Monday, Jan. 27, and will feature expanded and enhanced tools to help taxpayers as a result of the agency’s historic modernization efforts.

The IRS expects more than 140 million individual tax returns for tax year 2024 to be filed ahead of the Tuesday, April 15 federal deadline. More than half of all tax returns are expected to be filed this year with the help of a tax professional, and the IRS urges people to use a trusted tax pro to avoid potential scams and schemes.

The 2025 tax filing season will reflect continued IRS progress to modernize and add new tools and features to help taxpayers. Since last tax season, the improvements include more access to tax account information from text and voice virtual assistants, expanded features on the IRS Individual Online Account, more access to dozens of tax forms through cell phones and tablets and expanded alerts for scams and schemes that threaten taxpayers.

The IRS has also expanded features and availability of last year’s Direct File program. This year, Direct File will be available starting Jan. 27 to taxpayers in 25 states. In addition,

the IRS Free File program opens today. Available only on IRS.gov, IRS Free File Guided Tax Software provides millions of taxpayers nationwide access to free software tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners.

The IRS is also working to continue the success of the 2023 and 2024 tax filing seasons made possible with additional resources. The past two filing seasons saw levels of service at roughly 85% and wait times averaging less than 5 minutes on the main phone lines, as well as significant increases in the number of taxpayers served at Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country. Based on the IRS’ current plan and funding levels, the agency will work to provide similar levels of performance on these key service metrics in the upcoming filing season.

“This has been a historic period of improvement for the IRS, and people will see additional tools and features to help them with filing their taxes this tax season,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “These taxpayer-focused improvements we’ve done so far are important, but they are just the beginning of what the IRS needs to do. More can be done with continued investment in the nation’s tax system.”

Apple will pay $95 million to settle case involving Siri & privacy

Apple has agreed to pay $95 million in cash to settle a proposed class action lawsuit claiming its voice-activated Siri assistant violated users' privacy. A preliminary settlement was filed last week in the Oakland, California, federal court and requires approval by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White. Mobile device owners complained Apple routinely recorded their private conversations after they activated Siri unintentionally and disclosed these

conversations to third parties such as advertisers.

Voice assistants typically react when people use "hot words" such as "Hey, Siri."

Two plaintiffs said their mentions of Air Jordan sneakers and Olive Garden restaurants triggered ads for those products. Another said he got ads for a brand name surgical treatment after discussing it, he thought privately, with his doctor. From The Oklahoman

“There is a reason President Trump campaigned heavily as a pro-Bitcoin candidate and spoke at prominent Bitcoin events. Bitcoin has arrived into the mainstream of our economy and is unquestionably a significant part of the financial future,” Deevers said. “This legislation puts Oklahoma in a leadership role nationally, ensuring our state embraces the future of financial technology while providing our citizens with more financial options.” SB325 is eligible for consideration in the 60th legislative session beginning on Feb. 3.

Kenneth Wohl

Grant to be used to help fight poverty & homelessness

Upward Transitions has been awarded a grant of $25,000 from the Kirkpatrick Family Fund to be used in continuing its Community Outreach Program and services to address poverty and homelessness in Oklahoma County.

The Community Outreach Program continues its work preventing families and seniors who are at risk of eviction from losing their housing, thereby preventing homelessness in our community. It also provides documents, such as IDs and birth certificates, to individuals who are already experiencing homelessness. A study completed by The Homeless Hub found that 70% of the individuals they encountered who were experiencing homelessness did not have access to these crucial documents, and they cannot obtain employment, housing, or social services without them. The Program also helps to provide emergency travel for stranded travelers and victims of domestic violence and human trafficking

to get them to a safe place with support.

Upward Transitions is an Oklahoma County nonprofit that serves families and individuals who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless, or stranded by providing case management and stabilizing resources to help meet basic social needs.

For 100 years, Upward Transitions has touched the lives of Oklahomans in need. The organization’s mission is to prevent generational poverty through community collaboration, emergency relief, and empowerment, therefore inspiring hope with our neighbors experiencing housing instability.

Upward Transitions’ CEO, Periann Pulliam shared, “We are so grateful to receive this grant from the Kirkpatrick Family Fund. Their ongoing support and partnership in our mission assists the most vulnerable citizens in our community. We truly appreciate them.”

Hi and Lois

Shoe

Zits

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

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Hägar the Horrible

Passing of Anita Bryant noted

Anita Bryant Dry's soaring vocals helped catapult her to fame, from her public singing debut as a preschooler at her grandparent's Oklahoma Baptist church, her television show at age 12 and her climb up the music charts as a pop singer to her popular performances on Bob Hope's holiday tours to entertain U.S. troops overseas and her stint touting Coca-Cola and Florida orange juice.

A former Miss Oklahoma, Dry unabashedly proclaimed her Christian faith throughout her multifaceted career. And it was her vocal and much-publicized stand against gay rights in the late 1970s that stirred controversy and led to notoriety that she later said harmed her career.

Dry died on Dec. 16 at her Edmond home, surrounded by family and friends, according to an obituary submitted by her family. She was 84

Popularly known as Anita Bryant, she was born on March 25, 1940, in Barnsdall. She became known as Anita Bryant Dry after her second marriage to her childhood sweetheart, former astronaut Charlie Dry, who preceded her in death

Bryant pursued music and performance after her she made her singing debut before she was 4 at her grandparent's church in Tishomingo, and she had her own television show by the time she was 12. She was crowned Miss Oklahoma in 1958 at age 18, and went on to become a runner-up in the Miss America pageant in 1959.

As a popular pop singer in the 1960s, Bryant churned out hit records like "Paper Roses" and "Till There Was You," which both blazed up the pop music charts. Her talent led to guest ap-

pearances on "Dick Clark's American Bandstand" and other television programs.

She was particularly known for her stirring singing performances, and was invited to numerous prominent singing engagements over the years, most notably singing for President Lyndon B. Johnson at the White House and performing a song at his funeral.

Former Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating said Bryant's talent was admired by many Oklahomans.

"Those of my generation who enjoyed talent and a beautiful singing voice knew or knew of Anita Bryant," he said.

"I always knew her as a wonderful friend of Oklahoma, a patriot, a talented singer, a very special voice."

Anita Bryant performing in 2011.