Edmond Life and Leisure - February 6, 2025

In This Issue

War of the Worlds in Edmond The comical side of invasion at museum

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7

Partly Cloudy High 62° Low 53°

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8

Mostly Sunny High 59° Low 29°

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Partly Cloudy High 48° Low 31°

MARTIANS are coming to Edmond on Sat, Feb 22 at 3:00! Prepare for a Sci-Fi invasion of laughs with a wacky modern twist on the old-time radio broadcast of War of the Worlds, performed live by actors and musicians at the Edmond History Museum.

The one-hour in-person show features live local actors reading a “spoofed” adaptation of the classic Orson Welles radio script in which Martians attack Edmond. instead of New York City.

That’s right— lethal E.T.’s at the farmer’s market! Theremins at the Jazz Lab! Pulsating tentacles at Pops! Will an intrepid band of heroes save Edmond’s landmarks before monsters from beyond make off with the Blue Hippo? Find out as brave citizens use their ingenuity and historical knowledge to save Edmond ... and the world from the War of the Worlds.

In keeping with the original War of the Worlds show from 1938, live music will be performed (and interrupted) as the Martian invasion unfolds. The show is written and directed by award-winning director, Barrett Huddleston. The show is sponsored by Mr. Handyman of North Oklahoma City and Edmond.

Back by popular demand, this show was first performed in 2021, winning “Outstanding Program” by the Oklahoma Museum Association and “Outstanding Special Event” by the National Association for Interpretation.

As a bonus, the performance will open with a comedy

skit from the historic radio sitcom, Duffy’s Tavern. Archie, the manager, is hoodwinked into buying a radio station as a get-rich-quick scheme---just as a celebrity walks in the door to promote his new movie. In place of the original Milwaukee beer that is promoted in the show, Edmond’s own Frenzy Brewing Company will be highlighted in the script.

Exhibit Tie-Ins:

The War of the Worlds show is brought to you in celebration of the museum’s current exhibit, “Mysterious Machines: Hosted by Edmond’s Visiting Extra-Terrestrial” in which Milty has traveled from outer space to learn more about modern American machines. Milty inadvertently landed at the museum and is unaware that he is learning about machines that date from the 1900s. As he wildly “guesses” what each machine might be, visitors are also left scratching their heads over these unusual devices from the past until they read the actual strange-but-true histories. The Duffy’s Tavern episode compliments the “On the Air in Edmond” FM radio exhibit.

Event Details:

Tickets to War of the Worlds are $15 each, children ten and under are free. Online ticket sales close at 5pm on Feb 21st, 2025. Tickets purchased at the door are $20. Purchase tickets at www.EdmondHistory.org. The show will be performed live at the Edmond History Museum, 431 S. Boulevard in Edmond.

A look at four candidates running for mayor See page 4

PHOTO PROVIDED

Spoof of Orson Welles broadway set for Feb. 22

2025 Edmond Hall of Fame time again

It hardly seems possible that it is time for the Edmond Hall of Fame banquet, but it is happening folks. The banquet was last held in February of 2020. The difference this time is that we have been through so much in the last five years. The banquet held by the Edmond Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the annual awards presented was probably the last big event before COIVD 19 hit and changed so many lives.

We have lost so many to the horrible virus and it greatly challenged our health care system. It is easy to move on with our lives, but we should not forget the heroics of our healthcare system right here in Edmond. I do not know if there are plans for it at this year’s banquet but if not then at a future banquet I would like to see the entire healthcare system, especially the folks working the front line in hospitals and clinics honored. We really should pray for these folks every day and thank them for what they do and how they take care of us when we are the most vulnerable.

The Edmond Hall of Fame banquet, held every five years since 1981, celebrates individuals with exceptional civic and professional contributions. To date, seventy-nine individuals have been inducted. I was honored to be included in the 2020 class along with my friends George Nigh and Avilla Williams. I still do not understand how I got selected. It must have been a snowy day on the day they made the choice with a low turnout. Still, I am honored to be part of that class.

I even got my kids to return and see me get the honor. Our partner, Chris Hoke, and his bride Valarie even turned out which was a real honor. I have been blessed with many honors and awards over the years given the nature of my work. My son Clark’s comment when I invited him to the banquet was, “I thought you won everything already.” I took being inducted into the Hall of Fame for Edmond as a sign the chamber was done with me and it was time to bow out. Sherry Jordan, the CEO of the chamber, has me on call if needed. There is a box on her desk that says, “In case of emergency or a job that no one else is willing to do, break glass and call Ray Hibbard.” The 2025 Hall of Fame banquet takes place on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at the Edmond Conference Center.

The 2025 inductees are Dwight Adams, Shannon Miller, Pete Reeser (deceased), Larry Stevens, and Bob Weiss.

• Dr. Dwight Adams: The first Director of the UCO Forensic Science Institute, Dr. Adams transformed it into the nation’s largest forensic science program. Before UCO, he spent 23 years with the FBI, pioneering DNA techniques and establishing the National DNA

database, which has solved over 500,000 cases. Dr. Adams retired in 2023, the same year he was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. We love this guy and what a blessing it was when he decided to move back to Edmond after retiring as head of the FBI Laboratory. His students will have a permanent star on their resume for being under his leadership at UCO. He stopped by the office one day and saw my hat that the OSBI gave me and returned the next day with a hat that was from the FBI. I told him a badge would be better, and his reply was, “Not a chance.”

• Shannon Miller: A two-time Olympian with seven medals, Shannon is the only female athlete inducted twice into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame. After a successful Olympic career, she became a motivational speaker and advocate for women’s health, especially after surviving ovarian cancer in 2011. Shannon remains a powerful voice for health awareness and resilience. Trust me when I tell you that it is a mystery to me also how I got in before Shannon. This horrible oversight will be fixed this year. She is one of the nicest people you will ever meet and the true pride of Edmond. Her mom has worked in banking in Edmond for decades and is incredible herself. She told me one time that among things you never think you will need to say as a parent are, “I do not care how many gold medals you have you still have to clean your room.”

• Pete Reeser: A cherished Edmond figure, Pete was known for his community dedication, often seen at Around the Corner restaurant, his real estate office, or volunteering at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Over a 45year career in real estate, he earned many accolades. His legacy lives on through his family and his contributions to Edmond. When I mention in my column that there

are many folks that paved the way for Edmond Pete is one of them. We take our amenities in Edmond for granted but Pete is one of the folks that made all that happen folks. He has done much for this town and we miss him greatly.

• Larry Stevens: Larry Stevens, who served as Edmond's City Manager from 2002 to 2022, was recently inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for City and Town Officials. With a career span of over 40 years across Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, Larry’s leadership significantly shaped Edmond’s growth and development. Known for his dedication, he also contributed to numerous professional organizations. Most of us who deal with the City government miss having Larry around to lean on. He was the most helpful individual I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with in any government organization. We miss him but thank him for his great service to the community and happy he is getting a chance to enjoy his family in retirement.

• Robert S. Weiss:

A successful entrepreneur with 47 years in business, Bob has launched thirty-two ventures, including the enduring Othello’s Italian Restaurant. His leadership extends to nonprofit roles, guided by his motto, “Doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason.” I love seeing a true entrepreneur in the Hall of Fame. Bob fits the bill folks but as busy as he is with keeping folks employed with his many business ventures, he takes the time to help others. When I am at Around the Corner, I always hold out hope he will come by and share words of wisdom with me. I have learned much from this honoree. Nominations for this prestigious award were submitted by numerous individuals. "Edmond is fortunate to have citizens who go above and beyond for the community. Choosing inductees was a difficult task for our selection committee,” said Edmond Chamber President and CEO Sherry Jordan.

Award winners at the’ annual banquet Integris Health Edmond Volunteer of the Year: Bud Ground Mercy Ambassador of the Year: Brad Mardis

Dr. Dwight Adams

late-Pete Reeser

Larry Stevens

Bob Weiss

Shannon Miller

Page 3

Lankford measure fails to advance to senate floor

By Sen. James Lankford.

After we found bipartisan agreement last week to pass a new law to require the detention of an illegal alien who committed a crime after they crossed our border, called the Laken Riley Act, I thought we could also find bipartisan agreement that a child is a child after they are fully born.

My bill, called the Born-Alive Abortion Survivor's Protection Act, simply requires medical care for a child if they are fully born alive after a failed abortion. In most cases, if there is a medical mistake, a

From Page 2

RCB Bank Philanthropic Business of the Year: Oklahoma Natural Gas

TFCU Non-Profit of the Year: Anna’s House Foundation

OU Health Edmond Young Professional of the Year: Daniela Deuel

Oklahoma ER & Hospital Leadership Edmond Alumni of the Year: Chris Berry

Prosperity Bank Woman of the Year: Kristy Payne

First United Bank Small Business of the Year: Matthews Funeral Home

Citizens Bank of Edmond Citizen of the Year: Brian Soerensen

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

life is lost. But if a doctor makes a mistake during an abortion, the child actually lives.

In rare cases during a late-term abortion, a viable child is actually delivered instead of aborted inside the womb. I personally know someone who was aborted, but a nurse during the procedure saw that she was still alive and gave her medical care. She is now an amazing adult.

Last week, I brought the Born Alive bill to the Senate floor for a vote, but unfortunately, we could not get the 60 votes needed to open debate

on the bill. If a child is fully delivered and crying on the table, it’s hard to believe we cannot agree to give that child medical care. I will keep speaking out for the value of every child.

January also marked one of my favorite events each year, the March for Life in Washington, DC. Many fellow Oklahomans came to Washington, DC, to stand for life.

I’m proud of the work we continue to do to stand for life in the Senate, in Oklahoma, and around the nation.

Where mayoral candidates stand on the issues

By Richard Mize Oklahoman.com

The race for mayor of Edmond will put the winner on a city council dealing with change — and facing almost routine challenges from residents to city officials' decision-making.

In November, voters overwhelmingly rejected three bond issue proposals — collectively packaged as "Edmond on the GO," for general obligation bonds — after a short but ugly contest.

Some people accused city officials of breaking the law by promoting the $231 million package for public works, not just informing voters about it. It would have raised property taxes by 14.4%.

Detractors often challenge or oppose commercial development, asserting that quality of life, the suburb's main calling card, is at stake. Proponents of growth, especially in affordable housing, say it's necessary to keep and attract a workforce.

The Edmond City Council already has changed, although the transition won't occur in February.

Election on Tuesday Feb. 11

In the Feb. 11 nonpartisan election, only the mayor's seat — now held by Mayor Darrell A. Davis will be open. The top two vote-getters in that race will advance to the general election on April 1. Preston Watterson will take the Ward 3 seat, and Phillip Fraim will take Ward 4, because they were unopposed.

Here is what each mayoral candidate, in alphabetical order, thinks about some of the issues facing Edmond.

Candidate David Hornbeek:

People don't realize how bad city finances are

The biggest challenge ahead for Edmond is "a critical financial crisis that most people know nothing about," says candidate and architect David Hornbeek.

"Two taxes are set to expire in 2027. One of these taxes alone represents More than 30% of our current operating budget and half of our gen-

eral fund," Hornbeek said. "If not renewed, our city government as we know it will suffer.

"Basic services will be affected, but 30% of our general funding for our administrative staff and our first responders will be lost. There will be massive layoffs in the city administrative staff and the police and fire departments will be faced with similar decisions."

Dealing with it isn't an issue of taxes, he said.

"It’s an issue of stabilizing operating revenue," Hornbeek said. "It is also an issue of current leadership failure. While citizen’s concerns, traffic, growth and unmanaged development need to be eventually addressed, none of those will matter unless we address this crisis first.

center of Edmond isn’t Second and Broadway — it’s at I-35 and Danforth," he said. "We must focus on new developing areas that are specifically north and east of that intersection. Everything south and west is basically developed."

Specifically, Hornbeek said, the city needs to finish the Covell Parkway widening project, "which has been on the table for over 20 years," and reevaluate the Interstate 35 corridor development plan.

Edmond’s next mayor must have a thorough understanding of the city's political history in order to avoid the mistakes of the past, he said.

"I’ve seen firsthand the vitality that smart growth can bring to a city, but I’ve also seen what happens when communities don’t evolve — they stagnate, decay and lose their spirit," Hornbeek said. "Edmond has thrived because we’ve accepted change, we now must embrace it wisely. ...

"I love Edmond, and I know we have great opportunities before us. But we must have responsible leadership. If I am elected, I will bring responsible leadership, with transparency, oversight and accountability, back to Edmond."

"Edmond on the GO," aside from the 14.4% property tax increase, didn't have a chance mainly because it was rushed and had too little input from the public, he said.

"The whole process was hastily prepared to attempt to get on the presidential ballot," Hornbeek said. "There was not anything that was conspired or had intentional collusion, but the decisions made to speed the process resulted in terrible optics.

"As an architect, I spent my career solving problems by setting clear goals, establishing budgets, and creating plans that balanced needs with resources. I will bring the same approach to the role of mayor."

Candidate Mark Nash: 'Edmond GO' led him to run for mayor

"In an effort to speed the process, city staff provided a projects list and helped prioritize the order of the projects — giving appearance of council/city control. The final list of projects included work in every ward, in an effort to appease everyone and include something in every ward. While it spread the wealth, it was not a true reflection of the actual priorities of the work that needs to be done."

Candidate Mark Nash, with a career in finance, management, process engineering and consulting, echoed Hornbeek's points about city finance. He said the disconnect between promoters of "Edmond on the GO" and everyday people drove him to run for mayor. He has been involved with local issues for years, including 12 years as a trustee of the Edmond Economic Development Authority. He is a founding member of the Edmond Neighborhood Alliance.

"Our single biggest issue is the fiscal transparency and spending problem currently faced by the city," Nash said. "This year’s city budget has $453 million in expenditures and only $349 million in estimated revenue. The budget is balanced using reserve funds.

Hornbeek said people who are against growth should understand that it's inevitable.

"So the question is: What do we want it to look like? Do we want a hodgepodge like most of South Broadway, or thoughtfully planned developments like Chisholm Creek? Most people are not aware the geo-

"We cannot continue to operate using one-time monies for normal operating expenses. When we run out of reserves, what will we do then? Getting a budget process in place that can reduce spending and hold city departments accountable will go

Hornbeek

a long way to regaining citizens’ trust in city government."

He added, "And we need to act fast. Edmond currently has $990 million in bond debt and the city council took out $81 million in bank loans this fiscal year to fund additional projects."

With two new members already coming onto the council unopposed, and a new mayor, Edmond's budget and spending problems can be solved with a fresh, seasoned approach, Nash said.

Watterman and Fraim, the incoming council members, have strong financial backgrounds, Nash said, and that, combined with his own experience in fiscal analysis, finance, management and process improvement, "will create a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"To be successful, we must completely overhaul the city’s budget process," Nash said. "As a council, we must be able to tell departments, 'This is how much you have to spend,' and hold them to that number. And the budget must be presented in a format that department heads, city council members, and the general public can understand. Ultimately, transparency relies on regaining the trust of the citizens."

As for the bruising "Edmond on the GO" campaign, Nash was a leading opponent of the bond issues for numerous public works projects.

"All of the items on the project list are needed. Some more than others," he said, noting that completing the four-laning of arterial streets from 33rd Street north to Covell, and from Santa Fe Avenue east to Sooner Road, should be a priority.

The city also needs to "prioritize all our capital improvement projects," Nash said, "and then determine what we need to be asking our citizens for when the two sales tax issues come up in 2027. We can’t ask for more money if we aren’t spending wisely today and know what the cost of the future needs are."

Developers will see fewer NIMBY crusades — "not-in-my-back-yard" protests — if city planners and the council stops changing zoning project by project," he said.

"We spent nearly two years on the East Edmond 2050 Plan, and it has largely been ignored," Nash said. "When a developer uses a 20-plus-year-old zoning plan to justify building 500-plus homes in an area that was not designated that way in the most recent plan, (it) will always get pushback. ... "Allowing zoning changes all the time is not good for anyone. Just as with fiscal transparency, there must be transparency in the planning process. Everyone must know what to expect and what the outcome will be going into the process. We don’t have that today."

Candidate Tom Robins: former city council member running on his record

Tom Robins, as a former Edmond City Council member — he resigned his Ward 1 seat to be able to run for mayor — has a record to run on, so he

is. He pointed to several accomplishments, including:

Called for the vote to get The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park at Second Street and Coltrane Road "on track" and get an agreement approved by the city council.

"I was the only member of the Edmond City Council to vote against raising water utility rates (for water plant expansion and system improvements). The initial cost the previous city council approved was just over $300 million. Now, the project is over half a billion dollars, and I felt it necessary to have a complete financial review of options before moving forward or asking citizens for additional funding."

"During COVID, the city of Edmond did away with walk-in utility customer service. I proposed, voted for, and then ensured that walk-in, in-person customer service was restored."

"Led the effort to defeat Edmond’s 'Urban Residential Overlay' proposal."

"After years of abuse and neglect by a slumlord who was housing veterans in unsafe and unsanitary conditions, I led the effort to have the property owner taken to court, and declared a public nuisance."

"Led the effort on the council to raise private funding for the Edmond Fallen Officer Memorial."

"I first worked to close an illicit massage parlor within my ward and then held a town hall to identify the root cause of why Edmond has so many. The identified root cause for their proliferation in Edmond and cities across Oklahoma is that the state statute gives the State Cosmetology Board the only authority to regulate massage business activity.  ... I'm working to run a bill during this legislative session to update the statute, giving cities the authority to verify permits and set zoning requirements."

Robins, who is president of Solid Foundation Consulting, said transportation and growth are the biggest challenges facing Edmond.

"My record on Edmond City Council is to not vote for development unless transportation issues have been addressed," he said.

As mayor, Robins said he would work to: Double the amount that the city now spends to fix streets and fill potholes.

Support a development impact fee to assist in funding road projects around new developments. Improve the flow of traffic and safety near all our schools.

Require a transportation plan for all new developments.

Require that community engagement has taken place before city staff recommends approval for a development.

Candidate Leonard Scott: War hero demands First Amendment rights respected Leonard Scott, a retired and decorated U.S. Army colonel, Vietnam veteran, 2022 inductee in

the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame and novelist, is a longtime critic of Edmond city government. His campaign for mayor of Edmond goes back to basics: redress of grievances.

During the Vietnam War, he was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action as a member of the "Charlie Rangers," Company C (Ranger), 75th Infantry Regiment. His other honors include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and two Air Medals,

Scott has called for a recall of all city council members, calling the council a "regime." He was stymied because of the requirement of a petition with the signatures of 35% of registered voters to call a recall election. The city charter has had the requirement since 1925, city records show.

The requirement is "impossible or too onerous to achieve," he said, and "if the government requirements for a recall are impossible or too onerous to achieve (it is) denying our First Amendment rights ... to hold elected officers accountable to the people they are supposed to represent."

Scott said city officials refused to hold a town hall to hear his and others' numerous grievances, including the lack of an "after action review" of mandated closings and other decisions and actions during the Communist Chinese virus pandemic known as COVID-19," and what Scott considers to be "woke."

He said Edmond's biggest issue is the politicizing of the nonpartisan city council and city government. He took direct aim at Davis, the sitting mayor, for turning it into a "political, liberal progressive regime advocating for (a) woke radical ideology agenda."

Specifically, Scott lambasted Davis for his proclamation of "Gay Pride Month supporting, advocating, and embracing, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) community," as he put it in a handout.

Regarding "Edmond on the GO," he said he was "totally against it. I'm on a fixed income. Can you imagine your property taxes going up 14%" along with rising utility costs?

Development and growth are necessary, Scott said, but must be managed.

"Am I against building stuff? No. But along the I-35 corridor is the way to go, because you put buildings in there, you're not affecting others. You put green space in there, little parks. I'm not against it, but it's got to be done right."

Polls open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday Feb. 11

Nash Robins Scott

(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.)

Jan. 21

Carol Ann Davison, 55 of Guthrie. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.

Julius Antonti Reggans, 43 of Oklahoma City. Interruption, disruption, Interference with emergency phone call and domestic abuse assault (strangulation).

Adrian Daniel Bodenstein-Doonkeen, 48 of Yukon. Three counts of failure to appear.

Gary Geraldon Canary, 47 of Edmond. Three felony warrants.

Tonya Jean Lesseg, 51 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Mekhi Anthony Graham, 20 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Jan. 22

Carley Paige Young, 29 of Edmond. Possession of CDS and public intoxication.

Robert Harold King, 48 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting – petit larceny.

Isiah Lamar Coulter, 33 homeless. Trespassing after being warned, non-assault resisting officer and four counts of failure to appear.

Ryan Carvalho Vasques, 29 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Jan. 23

Shailendra Neupane, 27 of Edmond. No tag –improper tag, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Shayna Janelle Bruner, 30 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS and operating a motor vehicle while driver’s license is suspended/revoked.

Tyson Lee Hedrick, 44 of Edmond. Use firearm while committing a felony, possess with intent to distribute CDS and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Jan. 24

Sabriyah Hadiah Perkins, 25 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Blake Aaron Watts, 28 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Barron Dewayne Leake, 41 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Ainsley Hilbert, 34 of Edmond. Trafficking in illegal drugs.

Jeremiah Joseph Jacques, 35 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting – petit larceny.

Devin Damar Dourisseau, 26 of Oklahoma City. Non-assault resisting officer and shoplifting – petit larceny.

Wallace Timothy Henderson Jr., 35 of Oklahoma City. Two felony warrants and a misdemeanor warrant.

Nazjharail Antoine Cobb, 27 of Dallas, Texas. Violation of trademark anti-counterfeiting act and (felony value) obtaining by false pretenses, trick or deception.

Tacorai Taeshan Mathis, 26 of Dallas, Texas. Violation of trademark anti-counterfeiting act and (felony value) obtaining by false pretenses, trick or deception.

Cimya Nesha Mathis, 24 of Hutchins, Texas. Violation of trademark anti-counterfeiting act and (felony value) obtaining by false pretenses, trick or deception.

Jan. 25

Jared Matthew Blagg, 24 of Guthrie. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Dalon Juwan Reynolds-Broadus, 27 of Dallas,

Texas. Violation of trademark anti-counterfeiting act and (felony value) obtaining by false pretenses, trick or deception.

Miguel Brayan Deanda Vazquez, 22, of Edmond. Failure to wear seat belt and operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license.

Timothy L. Harnois, 64 of Blanchard. Felony DUI/APC.

Todd Stuart Tanton, 43 of Moore. No proof of insurance, no tag – over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Fredrick Davis, Jr., 43 of Edmond. (Felony) domestic abuse assault & battery and (misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Fei Cao, 35 of Edmond. Expired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance and driving without proper valid driver’s license.

Shaquille Terelle Webster, 30 homeless. Three counts of failure to appear.

Buddy Ryan Moody, 44 homeless. Public intoxication.

Jan. 26

Maurice Anton Richard, 55 of Moore. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Sean Patrick Gore, 52 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Vernon Perry Jr. 47 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Cole Mason Bence, 38 homeless. Two misdemeanor warrants.

Alexander Vitali Fruendt, 22 of Edmond. No tag – improper tag, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

JamieTorres-Martinez, 29 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license.

TOTAL ARRESTED: 38

Weekend Calendar of events Feb. 6-9

Weekend Calendar of Events Feb. 6-9

---- In the Gallery

---- Seen & Heard: Album Art Direction and Design by Carrie Smith

---- Indoor Edmond Farmer’s Market

---- Board Game Night

---- Karaoke Thursdays

---- Acoustic Nights

---- Beer + Yoga

---- A Midsummer Night’s Dream

---- Adam Hood Live @ The Old Icehouse

---- Books + Board Game

---- Prairie Classic Quarter Horse Show

---- Chocolate Decadence

---- An Affair of the Heart

---- First Friday Gallery Walk

---- Bullnanza

---- Oklahoma City Ballet Presents: Swan Lake

---- Sedgwick Street Rodders Winter Swap Meet

---- Round Barn Rendezvous

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 6: Gallery opening, 5 – 7 p.m.; free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Free; Featuring artwork of local artist Brad McNeill; edmondfinearts.com

Seen & Heard: Album Art Direction and Design by Carrie Smith

Location: University of Central Oklahoma –Melton Gallery

Extra Info: through Fri, Feb 21; weekdays: 12 –5 p.m.; Free; uco.edu

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

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

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Location: University of Central Oklahoma –Mitchell Hall Theater

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 6 – Sun, Feb 9; $10 ---- $25; calendar.uco.edu

Adam Hood Live @ The Old Iehouse

Location: The Old Icehouse

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 6; $22.50; visitedmondok.com

Books + Board Games

Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursdays; Free; 7 p.m.; americansolera.com

Prairie Classic Quarter Horse Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Wed, Feb 5 – Sun, Feb 9; Wed: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Thu: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Fri: 8 a.m. –7 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 7:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.; theprairieclassic.com

Chocolate Decadence

Location: Leadership Square, 211 N Robinson Ave, OKC

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 6; 6:30 – 9 p.m.; automobilealley.org

An Affair of the Heart

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 7 – Sun, Feb 9; Fri & Sat: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; aaoth.com

First Friday Gallery Walk

Location: Paseo Arts District

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 7; 6 – 9 p.m.; thepaseo.org

Bullnanza

Location: Lazy E Arena

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 7 – Sat, Feb 8; Doors open: 5 p.m.; Event: 6 p.m.; mccoyrodeo.com

Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Swan Lake

Location: 201 N Walker, OKC

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 7 – Sun, Feb 17; Feb: 7 & 8: 7:30 p.m.; Feb 9 & 16: 2 p.m.; okcballet.org

Sedgwick Street Rodders Swap Meet

Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 7 – Sat, Feb 8; Fri: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okcfairgrounds.com

Round Barn Rendezvous

Location: Round Barn

Extra Info: Sun, Feb 9; 12 – 4 p.m.; arcadiaroundbarn.com

Kristin Chenoweth Broadway Boot Camp auditions open for summer 2025

An open casting call for students currently in grades 8-12 will take place now through February 28, via video audition submissions for the ninth annual Kristin Chenoweth Broadway Boot Camp, to be held in person at the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. This year Ms. Chenoweth and her team of A-list Broadway professionals will collaborate with the students, offering insight into the world of performing arts for aspiring entertainers. “Last year auditions from all over the world

poured in from incredible students who are looking to expand their performing arts talents with some of the most renowned theatrical experts from across the nation,” said Kim Vento, director of the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center. “Each year, the camp just gets bigger and better, and this year will be no exception. I encourage anyone who has a heart for musical theatre to apply.” Auditions must be submitted through the virtual application link by 5 p.m. CST on Feb 28, 2025. Students who are currently in grades 8-12 (2024-

2025 school year) are eligible to audition. A limited number of slots are available and the cost to attend the camp is $1150. Students must prepare 2 one-minute vocal musical theatre pieces, a dance combination, as well as a one-minute dramatic monologue for the audition. A performance resume and headshot are also required.

"Ms. Chenoweth has a heart for arts in education, as cemented with the formation of the Kristin Chenoweth Arts & Education Fund,” said Vento, Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center director.

For Francis Tuttle instructor

Clearing wrongly convicted man leads to honor & acclaim

A team of journalists that includes Francis Tuttle Technology Center instructor Waleed Salim received one of the highest honors for their story about a wrongfully convicted man.

Salim, who teaches Broadcast and Video Production, and a team of journalists for KFOR News 4 received an Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University award. They were recognized at a ceremony at Columbia University in New York on Jan. 22.

Their award-winning story focused on Glynn Simmons, an Oklahoma man who spent 48 years in prison for a murder in Edmond that he did not commit. He was declared actually innocent in December of 2023

“We’re just excited that he got out and that he gets to live a life, even as an older man now,” Salim said. “And the work we did helped him do that. It’s definitely cool to receive this honor and be recognized, but the big thing is that he’s out now.”

Salim said he recalls the moment when the story began. Simmons had sent letters to local news stations declaring his innocence, something he had maintained since he was convicted following a two-day trial in 1975.

“He was writing to all the TV stations saying that he was innocent,” Salim said. “We had a web producer who saw it and got interested in the story.”

The weekend of Oct. 12, 2002 – OU-Texas weekend – Salim and reporter Ali Meyer covered the game in Dallas before returning to Oklahoma City. He then immediately hopped a flight to Louisiana to corroborate what Simmons had been saying: he wasn’t even in Oklahoma the evening of the murder.

“So I went to Louisiana and talked with his family and friends who said he was there when this all took place,” Salim said. “He could not have possibly been in Oklahoma to murder anyone.”

That footage and several hours’ worth of reporting work done by KFOR over the course of 20 years was put together in a special segment called “The Wrong Man”. It detailed Simmons’ case and highlighted details that suggested he should go free.

Engagement, Wedding notices

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

Francis Tuttle instructor, Waleed Salim (pictured on far left), accepted the duPont-Columbia award, along with his award-winning team.

Thunder player helps Boys & Girls Club

Last week Oklahoma City Thunder player Isaiah Hartenstein, his family, and the Hartenstein Foundation visited the students and staff at the Boys & Girls Club of Memorial Park. Hartenstein, on behalf of the Hartenstein Foundation, presented a check of $50,000 to the organization to be used toward building a basketball court at one of the Club’s site locations.  Hartenstein also answered questions during a Q&A session and ended the event with a pizza party celebration for the students.

YWCA announces resale shop opens

YWCA Oklahoma City is thrilled to introduce YThrift, the rebranded and relocated version of its former resale shop, Our Sisters’ Closet. Now located at 2124 NW 39th St., Y-Thrift has officially opened to the public this week.

Y-Thrift will operate Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM, with donation hours from 10 AM to 5 PM on the same days. The shop welcomes both shoppers and onsite donations, offering a carefully curated selection of stylish and affordable fashion and household items.

More than just a resale shop, Y-Thrift is committed to providing exceptional customer service, empowering YWCA clients, and fostering strong connections with the community. Shoppers will not only find great deals but also gain valuable insights into YWCA Oklahoma City’s mission and services.

Y-Thrift also prioritizes sustainability, recycling items that do not meet quality standards, and diverting approximately four tons of unusable merchandise from landfills each month.

Every purchase made at Y-Thrift directly supports individuals escaping violence, making a tangible impact in their lives. The store has also played a critical role in raising awareness about YWCA’s lifesaving services, offering essential resources to those in need.

Support a local, lifesaving organization by shopping at Y-Thrift for your clothing and household needs. For more information, visit www.ythriftokc.com or follow Y-Thrift on social media.

YWCA Oklahoma City is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families and strengthen our community. YWCA Oklahoma City is part of an international movement serving over 2 million in the United States and 25 million worldwide. For comprehensive information about this important work, go to: www.ywcaokc.org.

Adding seat belts to school buses?

Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan, has introduced, House Bill 1244, a bill that would require all school buses to be equipped with seat belts or harnesses, providing vital protection for some of Oklahoma’s youngest passengers.

The proposed legislation would amend state statute to require all new vehicles with a capacity of 10 or more passengers, purchased or contracted for use by school districts on or after July 1, 2025, to be equipped with seat belts or harnesses for every passenger.

This measure would align Oklahoma with similar policies in other states which reflects the growing trend to improve safety features on school transportation. According to the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS), eight other states have laws requiring seat belts or harnesses on school buses. these states include Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nevada, Florida, California, New York and New Jersey.

“The addition of seat belts for students riding to school or school events on our school buses would put parents' minds at ease and provide an important layer of security for Oklahoma students," Strom said. "By implementing this proposed requirement, we would not only be in the small number of states that are on the forefront of aligning Oklahoma with school bus seat belt requirements but also give parents greater peace of mind knowing their children are as safe as possible during their daily commute."

Under HB1244, the proposed requirement would apply to school buses purchased or contracted for use after the emergency July 1, 2025, effective date, ensuring that the law would take effect before next school year.

Year-round fun in Edmond

By Jennifer Thornton

Tourism Director

Visit Edmond

Finding fun things to do in Edmond just got easier! A digital and printed 2025 Guide is packed with Edmond history, events, indoor and outdoor activities, music and theater performances, sport facilities and new maps.

Visit Edmond helps visitors, residents and newcomers journey through our city. Edmond has smalltown charms and big-city excitement for couples for getaway weekends, vacationing families, business travelers, sports enthusiasts and everyone in between.

Did you know Edmond began as a crucial stop along the railway? The first legal settlers of Edmond were Colonel Eddy B. Townsend, Hardy C. Angelea and J. Wheeler Turner.

Historic Route 66 winds through 13.4 miles of Edmond. Mother Road attractions include Festival Market Place, 1889 Territorial School House, Old North at the University of Central Oklahoma, The Blue Hippo and Arcadia Lake. In 2026, the nation will be celebrating the Route 66 Centennial!

Discover the "Hallmark Movie" feel of downtown with 40 blocks of activities and year-round festivals. Find new residents (The Lark Cottages and Oxlley apartments), businesses, restaurants, dining and retail shops. Downtown Edmond pairs

shopping and dining with street parties like Heard on Hurd (third Saturdays March - October), holiday celebrations like LibertyFest and Deck the Downtown Tree lighting, Farmers Market (Saturdays late April - early November farmers market and annual events like Cycle 66 and Edmond Arts Festival.

Outdoor adventures include Arcadia Lake (check out the boathouse with a ropes course, zip line and kayaks, stand up paddle boards and bikes to rent) and 33 parks. The guide features 5 trails to explore for walking, hiking and biking.

Curtains Up! Find new ways to discover rhythm and art. The Armstrong Auditorium features performers from around the world, summertime amphitheaters at Stephenson & Mitch parks, University of Central Oklahoma showcases the Jazz Lab and College of Fine Arts dance and theater performances. Oklahoma Christian students shine in concerts at Baugh Auditorium and Edmond Fine Arts Gallery has free exhibits on the first Thursday of every month from 5 - 7 p.m.

Find more than 300 sculptures, murals, and interactive public art pieces. Take a self-guided tour by foot or bicycle:

• Bicycle Art Tour - Take a scenic ride to enjoy more than 20 art pieces.

• Downtown Art Tour - Explore more than 30 art pieces on this walking tour.

• BoulevART Art Tour - Boulevard Street features more than 20 installations, with at least one piece on each block.

• UCO Art Tour - Admire more than 15 sculptures on the University of Central Oklahoma campus.

• Historic Art Tour - Experience Edmond's history through more than 20 sculptures.

Check out two new maps! One features Edmond’s 13 hotels and one bed & breakfast and other is illustrated with attractions across the city.

The new 2025 Edmond Guide is available online at www.visitedmondok.com or stop by Visit Edmond at 2901 Conference Drive near I-35 and Covell. Copies are available for neighborhood associations, realtors, churches, travel agencies and others who want to know more about Edmond.

The Gulf of America?

I’m not so sure that renaming the Gulf of Mexico isn’t such a bad idea.

After all, there are five U.S. states and thousands of miles of U.S. shoreline, which is next to the large body of water.

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side Asks

It also brings up an interesting point. People in our nation are generally known as Americans. We all know the Lee Greenwood patriotic anthem he sings about how he’s “proud to be an American.”

But what a lot of people either don’t know, or don’t recognize, is that millions of people, not in the USA, consider themselves Americans. We have North America – of which we’re a part of, as is Mexico. And then there are the Central Americans and South Americans.

People in Mexico will tell you that their land is part of America.

I think some of the confusion comes from what we call people in other nations.

It’s easy to extrapolate Mexicans from Mexico, Cubans from Cuba,

Panamians from Panama and so on.

But what about us?

We generally tell people we live in the United States. We aren’t Staters or Statians.

Okay. I know what you’re thinking. We’re the United States of America and thus Americans.

But it’s odd because a lot of people in the Western Hemisphere call themsevles Americans as well.

Maybe that’s the reason so many of them were crossing the border. Maybe they wrongly felt this was their land. But getting back to my main point. Calling the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America isn’t that bad of an idea.

The USA and Mexico are both North American nations and can share the name.

—If you want some cheap fun — log onto some of the 2024 election coverage on YouTube.

The alleged experts on those broadcasts think they know the political pulse of this nation. In reality, most of them don’t have a clue.

(Steve Gust, editor of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com.)

Fauci’s prosecution

Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, is asking Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond to prosecute former Chief Medical Advisor to the President Anthony Fauci and other federal government officials for their role in COVID-19 protocols.

About a month ago, Humphrey submitted statements of probable cause to Drummond’s Office, which he said detailed criminal violations he and others are accusing Fauci, the Centers for Disease Control and other medical professionals of committing.

"I was fuming when Joe Biden pardoned Anthony Fauci while the U.S. Congress is working to verify the origin of COVID and endeavoring to prove Fauci participated in funding the Chinese lab where COVID was released," Humphrey said. "It's my belief that Fauci lied to Congress about his involvement, and he abused his federal position to present false medical information and intentionally ignored standard medical practice to profit from the death of thousands, including Oklahomans."

Humphrey said he worked with medical professionals and attorneys from across the nation to prepare the statements, which he said outlines Fauci's protocols the group claims ultimately resulted in thousands of COVID-19 deaths. Humphrey said the brief provides "indisputable evidence confirming Fauci and medical experts ignored known science and standard medical procedures." He said the protocols prevented Americans from receiving known accepted medications that he claimed are extremely effective in treating COVID-19. He said the statements also reveal that Fauci replaced accepted medical standards with a fatal COVID-19 protocol. He said the protocol was incentivized in that doctors and hospitals were required to follow it to receive payments. Humphrey said doctors that attempted to use standard proven practices were threatened with revocation of their medical licenses and could not receive payments from insurance or other medical reimbursement methods.

Humphrey said he joined a nationwide team of COVID-19 professionals to use his law enforcement background to prepare the statements, outlining what he said was the criminal conduct of those involved in formulating the COVID-19 protocol.

"Most have heard of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO)," Humphrey said. "Oklahoma has a RICO statute. The act covers a multitude of crimes like kidnapping, battery, fraud and extortion. My team alleges all these crimes were committed under the COVID-19 protocols and harmed Oklahoma victims. In addition, the act allows criminal charges to be filed in Oklahoma against someone involved in a criminal enterprise, including someone like Fauci. The presidential pardon does not make Fauci immune from state prosecution.

"I encourage Attorney General Drummond to use the power of his office given to him by the great citizens of Oklahoma to hold all these horrendous villains responsible for the undeniable crimes we say were committed under COVID-19 protocols," Humphrey said. "It is time for our attorney general to dispense some Oklahoma Justice."

Business owner backs Robins for Mayor

EDITOR:

As the owner of Merkley’s Driving School, I’ve spent years teaching thousands of Edmond’s new drivers the rules of the road.

Beyond safe driving, I care deeply about the future of our city — how we manage growth, support public safety, and ensure our streets are safe and maintained.

That’s why, for the first time ever, I’m publicly supporting a candidate for mayor.

Tom Robins is the energetic, responsive, resultsdriven leader Edmond needs right now.

A Leader Who Will Tackle Traffic & Growth Edmond is growing, and with that growth comes real challenges — especially in traffic and infrastructure.

As someone who works with new drivers every day, I see firsthand how our roads are struggling to keep up.

Tom has a plan to fix our roads now, improve traffic flow, and ensure smart, well-planned growth that benefits everyone.

Letter to the Editor

Fighting for Edmond’s Citizens

Tom has already demonstrated his commitment to standing up for Edmond residents.

He was the only City Council member to vote against raising Edmond’s water rates.

Working with Edmond VFW and American Legion Leadership, Tom took action when a slumlord was housing Edmond veterans in unsanitary conditions.

He voted to declare the property a public nuisance and hold the property owner accountable.

He is the first member of City Council to not just shutdown 24/7 illicit massage business in Edmond but is implementing a plan with law enforcement and state lawmakers to remove them permanently.

That’s the kind of leadership we need — someone who will fight for our community and get results.

Backed by Edmond’s First Responders

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.

Our police officers and firefighters put their lives on the line for us, and they deserve a mayor who has their backs.

Tom is the only candidate endorsed by Edmond’s first responders the Edmond Police and Fire Associations.

A Mayor Who Will Get Edmond Moving in the Right Direction

Tom is responsive, and gets results.

I’ve never endorsed a candidate, put a campaign sign in front of Merkley’s Driving School, or my home until now.

That’s how strongly I believe in Tom’s leadership. He’s the right person to serve Edmond.

I encourage every voter to take a close look at Tom. Join the Merkley family in voting for Tom Robins on Tuesday, February 11th.

Let’s move Edmond forward—together!

SCOTT MERKLEY, OWNER MERKLEY DRIVING SCHOOl.

Republican Governors Association welcomes Burgum’s confirmation

Republican Governors Association Chair Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued the following statement after Doug Burgum was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as the Secretary of the Interior.

“Congratulations to our new Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum! Secretary Burgum will bring innovative solutions, common sense, and pragmatic leadership to the Department of the Interior.

“Republican governors look forward to working with President Trump and Secretary Burgum to maximize the responsible use of America’s natural resources, and unleash American energy.”

Steve Gust

Calloway County’s many sights & tastes

By Elaine Warner

The town of Fulton in the Kingdom of Calloway is the county seat of Calloway County, Missouri. Kingdom? That nickname goes back to 1861 and the Civil War. Missouri was one of those states whose citizens were sharply divided between the forces of North and South. While Missouri decided not to secede from the Union, Callaway County tried to secede from the state as an independent nation – the Kingdom of Callaway.

It didn’t work but the soubriquet makes an interesting slogan. And it’s an interesting town. The chief attraction, America’s National Churchill Museum, brings visitors from across the world. It’s so impressive it took up my entire last column. This column is about other things to do and see when you visit.

If an army travels on its stomach, so do travel writers. Jack and I began our visit at Brooklyn Pizza in Fulton’s historic Brick District. And, yes, the owners are from Brooklyn. Their pizza was voted Best Pizza in Missouri 2024 by readers of Rural Missouri, the state’s rural electric cooperative magazine. Not only was the pizza good, it was a great value. I had a slice of cheese pizza with onions and mushrooms on top, a salad and a beverage for less than $7.00.

The Brick District encompasses approximately nine blocks in the oldest part of downtown. A stroll through the District offers not only historical architecture but some truly cool little shops and boutiques.

One of the coolest is Remade for a Purpose. The store’s stated goal is “to employ and empower adults with disabilities to use their unique gifts in purposeful, respectful and gainful work.” It combines an upscale resale boutique with a workshop where some of its employees create beautiful wreaths and wall decorations.

I’m a popcorn devotee, so Go-Po Gourmet Popcorn was a definite must-go! Owners Brooke and Nick Bartlett use locally-grown kernels which they air pop. They create their own seasonings with real butter. The popcorn is then baked adding a nice

finish to the treat, Brooke says, “We have about 70 different flavors but only pop 12 to 16 a week.”

I guarantee you’ll find something to tickle your palate. Choices include Everything Tiger (yes, this is Mizzou), a buttery cheddar with Everything Bagel seasoning, dark chocolate with sea salt, birthday cake, even dill picklet.

The building was built in 1890 and housed a dry goods store. Go-Po has the original floors, counters and a big table where guests often meet, get some popcorn and grab a game from shelves holding about 600 options.

In another old building, Beks restaurant offers fine dining. Who knew you could find truffles in Missouri? This was the Rural Missouri “Best Restaurant” winner. Jack enjoyed a great filet while I tried a cheese pizza topped with truffles. Truly terrific!

Drive down 7th Street to see beautiful historic homes. The West 300 block is the best. A number of the homes are built in the Queen Anne Revivalstyle and many were designed by the town’s premier architect, M.F. Bell.

The home at 310 W. 7th was built in 1889 for Dr. Edgar Marquess, professor of Latin at Westminster College. Today it is the Loganberry Inn, where Jack and I spent the night.

The Inn is owned by Nanette and Robert King. The elegant Victorian home has hosted a number of international luminaries from Winston Churchill’s daughter, Lady Mary Soames, to Polish President Lech Walesa, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. Our room was attractive and comfortable with a king-sized bed (with homemade chocolate chip cookies waiting for us), built-in book shelves and an original fireplace with an electric insert. Breakfast started with juice, coffee and a fruit cup with mint and honey. The meal was complete with home-baked multigrain bread, black current and strawberry preserves, scrambled eggs and bacon. Nanette is a holistic chef and can accommodate special dietary requirements including plant-based, diabetic and keto regimes. And she shares recipes.

Our last stop in Fulton was a big surprise. Ap-

proximately 80 vehicles on display represent about 60 per cent of the personal collection of the late Bill Backer.

Backer had a degree in chemistry from Westminster and worked as a mechanical engineer for Ford for several years. In 1957 he returned to Fulton to work with his father, who had founded a potato chip factory in 1931. Besides making potato chips (the family-owned business is still thriving) Backer, who died in 2008, also enjoyed collecting cars.

The Auto World building is unprepossessing but the cars inside will knock your socks off. Models range from a 1902 Oldsmobile Runabout to a 1997 solar-powered auto designed and engineered by students from the University of Missouri.

My favorites included a snazzy, red, 1929 Cord and an elegant 1932 LaSalle Touring car with impressive, shiny grill and lights. With that visit, we got back into our very ordinary auto and hit the road home.

Our visit to Fulton lasted less than 24 hours –not long enough. Check www.visitfulton.com before you go for more suggestions. Driving directly will take about seven hours. Best idea, make it a real road trip and take in the interesting spots along the way.

Nanette’s Broiled Grapefruit (Nanette says, “It looks difficult, but it’s really easy – our most requested recipe.)

Ingredients: Grapefruit Brown Sugar Ground cinnamon Greek Yogurt, plain or vanilla Honey

Slice grapefruit in half and carefully cut around each section. Line an oven-proof baking dish with foil for easy clean-up. Spread ½ to 1 tsp of brown sugar over the top of the fruit. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Broil on top rack for 3 – 5 minutes until the rind begins to darken and the sugar is dissolved but the fruit does not burn. Let cool to desired temperature. Serve with a spoonful of yogurt and a drizzle of honey.

Elaine

The Cord was one of the classiest cars of the Jazz Age.

Pizza at Brooklyn's has been named ‘Best in Missouri’ by readers of the state rural electric magazine.

Positive Aging seminar topic is ‘Love Your Age’

On Thursday, February 13 from 10 to 11:30, VillagesOKC will continue its monthly Positive Aging learning sessions in the District/Conference Center on the Springlake campus of Metro Technology Centers, 1900 Springlake Drive.

The event is free with pre-registration.

This month’s presenter is Marilyn Olson, VillagesOKC Executive Director. The topic “Love Your Age” is designed to follow January’s topic of “Finding Purpose.” In additional to her position at VillagesOKC, Olson is on the State Council on Aging and the Advisory Council for Oklahoma’s Multisector Plan on Aging called “Aging Our Way.”

Gaylene Stiles, VillagesOKC Education Director, said the monthly Positive Aging series covers topics on health, wealth and relationships designed to raise the quality of life for adults by empowering them with information and trusted connections.

Stiles quoted Wendi Suzuki, PhD, Neuroscientist at New York University, “The strongest predictor of quality longevity is the number of daily interactions with people.”

Stiles noted that when adults gather each month at Positive Aging, they hear from local professionals, meet trusted local sponsors, and make connections with people. VillagesOKC is designed to encourage more connections so people in central Oklahoma age with purpose and vitality.

In the February session of “Love Your Age,” attendees will hear practical tips and learn how purpose and a positive mindset about aging will overcome outdated stereotypes about aging and bring fulfillment to living with joy each day.

“Join us for an uplifting conversation that will empower you to see every year as a gift and every moment as a chance to live fully and authentically,” Stiles said. “In fact many are beginning to declare along with VOKC members, “This is my BEST decade yet!”

The monthly events also offer free hearing and vision screenings as well as limited transportation. Please call for details.

The event is free with online registration available at LoveYourAge.org or by calling (405) 990-6637.

Tax incentives proposed to increase civil engineers

Citing a growing need for civil engineers, Representative Nicole Miller (HD 82) is proposing tax incentives through HB 2260 for students enrolling in civil engineering education programs and businesses hiring civil engineers.

“This bill is about investing in Oklahoma’s future,” said Miller. “By supporting civil engineers, we are building a stronger economy and improving public safety. This incentive approach has been great for cultivating our aerospace engineers and now is the time we include civil engineers.”

Miller says that fewer students are enrolling into civil engineering programs in college at the same time there is an increasing need for civil engineers.

“Investing in civil engineers helps ensure that Oklahoma’s infrastructure is resilient enough to withstand natural disasters, mitigate economic and social impacts and safeguard our communities for generations. HB 2260 takes a proactive approach by investing in our workforce and creating opportunities for long-term success.”

VOKC’s Monthly Positive Aging learning sessions are hosted by Metro Technology Centers.

Review of ‘Dog Man’ movie

The younger crowd can appreciate film

By George Gust President

Harry S. Truman famously said, “Not all readers become leaders, but all leaders must be readers.” And for a generation of young readers one of their first introductions to reading books for fun is the “Dog Man” series of books by Dav Pilkey, also known for writing the other series of young reader books “Captain Underpants” which saw his jump to the big screen in 2017.

Dog Man, half dog and half man, he is sworn to protect and serve as he doggedly pursues the feline supervillain Petey the Cat (Pete Davidson). For those uninitiated to the Pilkey writing style, “Dog Man” is an off the wall metatextual comedy that includes sophomoric humor that walks up to the borderline of propriety appealing to the elementary aged students it targets. There’s a selfreferential tone to the movie that can appeal to adults as well as the potty humor that the kids will enjoy. However, through the eyes of a parent, the pacing of the movie tends to drag at times. “Dog Man” takes a little long to round into form with the introduction of the adorable Lil’ Petey ( voice of Lucas Hopkins Calderon) which feels like the most compelling part of the story the

film has to offer. All the while though, “Dog Man” is filled to the brim with wall-to-wall jokes both through the gorgeously animated visual gags as well as through the cracking elementary-aged witty dialogue.

And while the titular super-cop Dog Man has a vocal performance limited to canine growls and whimpers, the rest of the voice cast is phenomenal. Being largely unfamiliar with the acting styles of Davidson outside of the odd SNL video clip and his popularity in gossip culture, I was pleasantly surprised by his well-rounded comedic turn as the villainous Petey the cat. And overall, the cast is locked into the silly gonzo tone of the

movie with fun performances by Lil Rel Howery as the loud chief and Isla Fisher as the only TV journalist in town.

Overall, “Dog Man” is a faithful adaptation of the beloved series of sophomoric comic books for early readers. And while the main selling point of the movie is the zany humor for 3rd graders, there’s much more heart than you would expect from this kind of children’s entertainment, with some commentary on co-parenting and exploring generational trauma.

There are also more than a few story beats borrowed from the more mature film “Robocop” which is a nice treat to adult fans of that movie. At a breezy 90 minutes “Dog Man” is a fun movie that will satisfy its core audience of young readers.

“Dog Man” is rated PG for some action and rude humor.

3.4 out of 5 stars

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

Behind the scenes at museum

Visit the Oklahoma History Center Museum after hours on Thursday, February 20, from 6-8 p.m. to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes of a museum.

This family-friendly event will allow guests to learn about the various jobs involved in a museum, such as curators and exhibit designers. This is a great opportunity to discover what keeps a museum running.

Register online through the Museum Store to secure your spot before the deadline on Wednesday, February 12. Registration is limited to the first 100 people. The event is included with paid admission to the museum. Members of the Oklahoma Historical Society get in for free.

The Oklahoma History Center Museum is located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Please call 405-522-0765 or visit okhistory.org/historycenter for admission costs and group rates.

The Oklahoma History Center is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society and is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, National Archives and is an accredited member of the American Alliance of Museums.

"Dog Man" is the big screen adaptation of the hit series of early reader comic books featuring plenty of potty humor and a surprising amount of heart.

University of Central Oklahoma Department of Theatre Arts will present a fresh adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic comedy, “A

UCO to give Bard’s comedy a new twist

The University of Central Oklahoma Department of Theatre Arts will present a fresh and hilarious adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic comedy, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6-8, and 2 p.m. Feb. 9, in Mitchell Hall Theatre, located on Central's campus.

Directed by Collin Andrulonis, UCO instructor of theatre arts, this modern interpretation—"Fairyland Presents: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Athens)”— places Shakespeare’s whimsical characters into the chaotic world of reality television. The Fairy King and Queen serve as producers, orchestrating the

chaos through staged drama, love potions and mischievous fairies while the four lovers navigate a reality-show environment complete with sleep deprivation, outrageous pranks and surprising transformations.

“In this production, we embrace the absurdity of reality TV and find remarkable parallels to Shakespeare’s exploration of love and mischief,” Andrulonis said.

“Reality TV thrives on manipulating emotions, just as Shakespeare’s fairies do. This adaptation adds a satirical twist that makes the play feel both

fresh and familiar.”

The production is family friendly, featuring the romantic entanglements and magical elements typical of Shakespearean comedy alongside slapstick, physical humor and vibrant, fantastical visuals.

Tickets range from $10 to $25 and are free for UCO students with a valid ID. Tickets can be purchased online at go.uco.edu/CFAD-Tickets or by calling the Ticket Office at 405-974-3375.

For a complete list of UCO College of Fine Arts and Design events and performances, visit www.uco.edu/cfad/.

The

Midsummer Night’s Dream,” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6-8, with a matinee performance at 2 p.m. Feb. 9. Pictured, left to right, Tarun Joseph, a junior theatre performance major from Deer Creek, Maggie Lawson, a sophomore theatre performance major from Sapulpa, Ethan Sparks, a senior theatre performance major from Laverne, Cutter Acker, a senior theatre performance major from Choctaw and, Gianna Brown (seated), a junior theatre performance major from Mustang..

Mullin doesn’t want to fund abortions abroad

U.S. Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Jim Risch (R-ID), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Roger Marshall (R-KS), Rand Paul (R-KY), Rick Scott (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tim Sheehy (RMT), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and Pete Ricketts (RNE) today introduced the American Values Act, legislation to permanently enact and expand existing prohibitions on the use of U.S. foreign assistance to pay for the performance or promotion of abortion services overseas.

“As President Donald J. Trump re-evaluates foreign aid, it’s absolutely essential that American taxpayer dollars are never used to fund abortions here or anywhere in the world,” said Sen. Mullin. “Our nation was founded on the principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and it’s our job to protect those values. I’m glad to join this important legislation to defend the sanctity of life.”

“American foreign aid should always be used in a way that is in line with American valuesand that means that no foreign assistance funds

should ever be used to perform or promote abortion services,” said Sen. Risch. “I’m proud to introduce the American Values Act with my colleagues to hold our government accountable to this standard and protect the sanctity of life across the globe.”

“Human life across the world must be protected, and the use of taxpayer dollars to fund abortions abroad is contrary to American values,” said Sen. Blackburn. “This bill would strengthen the existing restrictions on the use of foreign assistance for abortions, making it crystal clear such actions will not be tolerated.”

“No American taxpayer should be forced to fund abortions overseas,” said Sen. Paul. “It’s bad enough that Washington spends recklessly at home, but using taxpayer dollars to promote abortion abroad is an insult to both life and fiscal responsibility. This legislation is a necessary step towards reigning wasteful spending and standing for the fundamental right to life.”

Sen. Scott said, "It’s extremely troubling that American tax dollars could be used to promote or perform abortion overseas. Our American Values Act ensures U.S. taxpayer dollars sent as foreign aid are helping families, not harming human life."

“Americans made it clear this year with the election of President Trump that they have rejected the left’s radical, pro-abortion agenda. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to end the United States’ funding of abortions abroad and help our nation once

again become a defender of life across the globe,” said Sen. Daines.

“As the right to life is the most fundamental human right of all, I strongly oppose sending U.S. taxpayer dollars overseas to promote or perform abortion,” said Sen. Hagerty. “I’m pleased once again to support the American Values Act that seeks to close loopholes and uphold pro-life values in U.S. diplomacy and development by placing permanent restrictions on the use of U.S. foreign assistance to fund abortions and involuntary sterilizations.”

If enacted, this legislation would:

Clarify that existing prohibitions on the use of U.S. foreign assistance to pay for the performance or promotion of abortions, forced sterilizations, or biomedical research relating to abortions or forced sterilizations shall apply to all assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act;

Permanently enact long-standing appropriations restrictions on the use of foreign assistance funds to lobby for or against abortion;

Permanently enact long-standing appropriations restrictions on the provision of foreign assistance funds to organizations that support or participate in the management of a program of coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization; and

Permanently enact long-standing appropriations restrictions on the use of funds made available to the Peace Corps to pay for abortions.

Food allergies on the rise

By Brian Attebery

Food allergies have been a huge topic the last few years for many. As a trainer, I can remember when people started talking about gluten and cutting gluten out of their diets. Gluten is the protein portion in a lot of foods that naturally occurs. These foods are carbohydratebased and you will see it prominently in bread, pasta, beer and many other choices. I would hear they lost weight and felt less bloated. Frankly, I blew it off for the most part because when you cut gluten from your diet, you just cut carbs and beer. Yep, you will lose weight if you do that. I do still think that is what most people experience but through the years, I will say that I have seen and heard other examples that make me realize that there is more to this topic than myths and misplaced reasonings behind their successes of issues with certain foods.

In America, we started doing Genetically Modified Foods to speed up and make food production/crops more efficient. Many other countries do not practice these techniques and some don’t even allow it. I have clients with gluten “allergies” or “sensitivities” who have traveled to foreign countries and cautiously tried some foods there with gluten and felt perfectly fine. Many would assume that they had grown out of the issue only to find out when they came back to the U.S. and tried our glutencontaining foods, that they could not tolerate them still. Interesting…These situations opened my thought

processes up to the possibilities that there is something to our food situation in America that isn’t good. There are many elevated food allergies in America beyond the gluten topic.

According to a 2021 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 5.8% of children aged 0–17 are diagnosed with a food allergy. About 40 percent of children with food allergies have multiple food allergies. Food allergy prevalence among children has been increasing for decades, up by 50 percent between 1997 and 2011, and again up by 50 percent between 2007 and 2021. In the United States, the prevalence of self-reported peanut or tree nut allergy in children more than tripled between 1997 and 2008. An analysis of health insurance claims data found that annual incidence of peanut allergy in one yearolds tripled between 2001 and 2017. The percentage of the U.S. adult population living with peanut allergy has been estimated at 3 percent in 2015–2016, compared to less than 1 percent in 1999.

I don’t know what the answers are, but I do know we need to be pro-active and not ignore the data that is out there. The more natural and basic the foods we eat without chemicals and alterations seems to make sense to me. The great/late fitness expert Jack Lelanne was famous for saying, “If it is made by man, then don’t eat it.” Seems like pretty good advice (Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com

Attebery

February dedicated to CareerTech mission

Oklahoma CareerTech is celebrating Career and Technical Education Appreciation Month by looking back at a year of growth and innovation.

Gov. Kevin Stitt recently issued a proclamation declaring February to be Career and Technical Education Appreciation Month in Oklahoma.

CareerTech State Director Brent Haken said CTE Month is an opportunity to reflect on the critical role CareerTech plays in transforming lives through education and workforce development.

“Career and Technical Education Appreciation Month is a time to celebrate the life-changing opportunities CareerTech provides to students, adults and businesses across Oklahoma,” Haken said. “CTE equips learners with the skills they need to succeed in highdemand careers while driving economic growth in our state. This February, let’s recognize the impact of CTE and the dedicated professionals who make it all possible.”

Oklahoma CareerTech made incredible strides over the last year, including growth in enrollments, expanded training programs and increased funding.

“Our programs are reaching more students and adult learners than ever before, providing them with the skills they need to thrive in high-demand industries,” Haken said. “We’ve launched new and innovative training

opportunities, ensuring our offerings remain aligned with the needs of employers and the future workforce. And we’ve secured additional resources to enhance facilities, invest in cutting-edge technology and support our mission to grow Oklahoma’s economy.”

Among other things, Oklahoma CareerTech is taking the lead on apprenticeships in the state. CareerTech received $562,459 from the U.S. Department of Labor to build apprenticeship capacity and expand Labor Department registered apprenticeships in all industries throughout Oklahoma. In addition, the state agency has implemented Oklahoma CareerTech certified apprenticeships.

“Apprenticeships provide students a connection between education and careers, which falls directly under Oklahoma CareerTech’s mission to prepare Oklahomans to succeed in the workplace, in education and in life,” Haken said.

New Oklahoma graduation requirements include increased STEM education and opened more career training opportunities for students. The new requirements emphasize career readiness training and improve workforce development. CareerTech enrollment has risen in all of its delivery arms for the third consecutive year. Systemwide enrollment was 520,733 in fiscal year 2024.

Accessibility to housing has Dem leader concerned

Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt has filed a suite of bills to increase availability of homes in communities across Oklahoma. She filed bills focused on keeping home development economically viable in all parts of the state and to encourage local leadership to address the housing shortage. SB275 would create the Workforce Housing Commission to inform state strategies for the housing market. SB938 would create a grant program for municipalities to establish comprehensive housing strategies.

“Everyone needs a safe place to live for their health and prosperity and our state has serious shortages in houses for working Oklahomans. We need to work smarter on this growing problem since many communities and working Oklahomans are left out,” said Kirt, D-Oklahoma City. “I filed SB275 to get us on the same page about gaps in the housing market so we can do real problem solving to address Oklahomans’ needs.” Oklahoma is more than 77,000

rental units short for low-income workers according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The Kansas City Fed has reported a “mismatch of supply and demand.” Economic developers are concerned about housing availability and how it could limit economic growth across the state.

“We need smaller, more affordable homes for workers in many communities to help our economy grow,” Kirt said. “Local leaders who understand what their communities need are key to making this happen. That’s why I introduced SB938, which would set up grants for local housing strategies that work for families of all income levels, especially those families left out now. By working together, state and local leaders can make better plans and laws for housing that will help more Oklahomans prosper.”

Both bills are available for hearing in the Senate Economic Development, Workforce, and Tourism Committee.

Guymon man $1 million richer

A routine stop at Dizzy B’s Country Store in Guymon turned into a life-changing moment for one lucky Oklahoma Lottery player! Robert from Guymon is celebrating a $1 million win after scratching off a top prize on the popular Money Maker ticket.

The longtime lottery player claimed his prize recently at the Oklahoma Lottery Winner Center, making him the 87th millionaire in Oklahoma Lottery history.

Robert, an avid lottery player for 20 years, says he was in disbelief when he realized he had won. “It didn’t feel real until my wife confirmed it for me,” he shared. Now, with $1 million in hand, Robert has some exciting plans: a bathroom remodel, a new lawnmower, and a brand-new car for his wife.

“We love seeing our players take home life-changing prizes,” said Abby Morgan, Director of Marketing &

Council honors Janet Yowell

Janet Yowell is the Executive Director of the Edmond Economic Development Authority. The Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) exists to offer resources that stimulate the growth of Edmond’s economy by creating and maintaining an optimum environment for both new and existing businesses, offering

services that facilitate the growth and expansion of those businesses and generating opportunities to increase the sales tax base of the city of Edmond.

Janet has been with the EEDA for 35 years, serving as the Executive Director for 23 years. She plans to officially retire February 28, 2025.

Product Development at the Oklahoma Lottery. “This $1 million win is a perfect example of how exciting and rewarding our games can be.”

The $30 Money Maker Scratcher still has two remaining $1 million top prizes waiting to be claimed, giving players more chances to win big.

About the Oklahoma Lottery

Last fiscal year, the Oklahoma Lottery paid out more than $271 million in prizes to players, helping to drive both the local and state economy and bolster retail revenue throughout Oklahoma.

Since its launch, the Lottery has generated more than $1.36 billion in funds that have been given to the Oklahoma Education Lottery Trust Fund. As sales continue to grow, the Oklahoma Lottery is able to increase the contributions that benefit students and teachers across the State of Oklahoma.

Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis honors EEDA leader Janet Yowell for her many years of service to Edmond.

Beware of fraud with Medicare plans

By Michelle Schaefer

There has been an alarming increase in fraudulent calls regarding Medicare plans. Here are a few tips to avoid being scammed:

DON’T believe anyone who says they are calling from your doctor’s office because you need to change Medicare plans.

DON’T talk to anyone who says they are calling from Medicare to “verify” your Medicare number.

DON’T give out your Medicare number or Social Security number.

DON’T sign up for free things in exchange for your Medicare or Social Security number.

DON’T respond to offers in the mail telling you a deadline is approaching

DON’T call numbers promising you $0 premium plans, Part B givebacks or free money for groceries or utility bills. Those are usually special plans just for Medicaid recipients.

DON’T talk to people who knock on your door to discuss Medicare. It is illegal for a Medicare agent to come to your house without an appointment.DO work with a local, licensed Medicare agent.

They are not allowed to charge for their services and they can answer questions and analyze your current policy to see if you need to make a change now. DO register your number on the Do Not Call list. Call 888-382-1222 from each phone you wish to register. You can also go to www.donotcall.gov. It will send you a confirmation email you have to click on in order to submit your registration. Your enrollment in the Do Not Call registration NEVER EXPIRES! DO make a note of the name of the company that called you and the time and date, and file a complaint at www.donotcall.gov. It will ask for your phone number, the type of service they were calling about, the time and date, and the phone number they were calling from. I’m not sure that does a ton of good, although the penalty for violating the Do Not Call regulation is $50,000 per call. It know it’s very satisfying to hang up the in their ear, but I figure the longer I keep them on the phone the less time they have to bother someone else.

If you’re on the Do Not Call list, what calls ARE allowed?

Calls from your existing Medicare agent to service your policy.

Calls from your existing Medicare insurance company regarding your policy. (But beware, often these

companies have call centers who try to get you to switch to a different plan.)

Calls from a company where you signed a form giving them permission to call you.

Calls from a company where you submitted an online inquiry. (Note: Don’t do this! These web sites are often “aggregators who sell your information over and over again to agents.)

Calls from a political organization.

Calls regarding a survey.

Charities.

Debt collectors.

So be very choosy who you give permission to call you. It is within your rights to ask what they are going to do with your information.

Michelle Schaefer is a local insurance agent specializing in helping people make decisions about their Medicare plans. She is an Edmond resident with 30 years of insurance experience AND a cardcarrying Medicare client. If you have Medicare questions you’d like answered in a future column, contact Michelle at agency@michelleschaefer.com or 405254-7727. For further information, go to www.medicare.gov, call 800-MEDICARE, or contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)..

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Bill would up tobacco fines on selling to minors

Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay, has introduced House Bill 1682 which aims to hold businesses more accountable for selling tobacco and vapor products to minors, to ultimately protect youth from the dangers of nicotine addiction.

The bill, titled The Prevention of Youth Access to Tobacco Act, would impose fines on employees and store managers who sell tobacco products to anyone under 21.

Under the proposed legislation, repeat violations could result in the suspension of a store’s tobacco or vape sales license.

“The Prevention of Youth Access to Tobacco Act would ensure that both employees and store managers share responsibility for preventing underage cigarette and vape sales,” said Roe. “This bill holds them accountable and would take a strong stance to protect Oklahoma youth from the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping and the risk of a lifetime of addiction.”

Under the proposed legislation, fines for illegal sales would increase with repeated offenses. Employees would face fines starting at $100 for a first offense, rising to $300 by the third, while store managers would face fines from $250 to $1,000.

A fourth offense within two years would maintain these fines and could result in a store license suspension of up to 60 days.

The bill would also grant local governments and law enforcement the authority to enforce these rules, which Roe says would reinforce efforts to curb illegal sales across the state.

The Prevention of Youth Access to Tobacco Act also aligns with the goals of the Healthy Youth Initiative, a program led by the Tobacco

Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) which helps young Oklahomans make healthier choices. According to the Tobacco-Free Kids Organization, 21.8% of Oklahoma teens use e-cigarettes which is double the national average.

"Vaping has become an epidemic among teens and is increasingly linked to mental health issues, as vape companies falsely market their products as stress relievers," Roe said. "These misleading claims trap teens in addiction, harm their health and make it difficult for them to quit. This bill educates young people on the serious consequences of vaping and tobacco use.

The choices we make in our younger years have a lasting impact on our health and can ultimately shorten our lifespan."