Edmond Life and Leisure - January 20, 2022

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January 20, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 36

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Hudson Football Memorial Scholarship winners named

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

LibertyFest memories sought See page 4

FRIDAY, January 21 Sunny High 39° Low 23°

SATURDAY, January 22 Partly Cloudy High 46° Low 23°

SUNDAY, January 23 Sunny High 53° Low 31°

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Winning this year’s Shelby Hudson scholarship are Royce Coleman and Adian Parson. From left, are Royce Coleman, Coach Logan Thomas and Adian Parson Royce Coleman and Aidan Parson, of Edmond Memorial High School, class of 2022, recently received the sixteenth annual Shelby Hudson Football Memorial Scholarship late last year during the Bulldogs annual football banquet. The $4,000 tuition based scholarship that each will receive will be paid to the college or post-secondary studies of the recipient’s choice. The scholarship was established Aug. 2, 2005 in honor of Davis and Lisa Hudson’s son, Shelby who was a 2003 EMHS graduate, and is awarded annually to two players who display the qualities and characteristics that Shelby exemplified as a Bulldog football player. These include personal motivation and character, heart

and desire to excel, drive and determination to accomplish goals, and perseverance in the face of all obstacles. “We are extremely pleased and honored to be able to make this scholarship available to these two outstanding young men. Both Royce and Aidan had outstanding careers in football as well as in the classroom, as both are very competitive and therefore they will be very successful in life,” Davis Hudson said. Upon graduating from EMHS this spring, Royce plans to attend University of Oklahoma majoring in Biochemistry Pre Med, while Aidan plans to attend Oklahoma State University and receive his degree in the field of engineering. Shelby was participating in his

annual training camp with the Oklahoma National Guard when he drowned in Lake Tenkiller on May 24, 2005, while working on a unit moral activity. Since the inception of this tuition base scholarship, 31 recipients have been awarded $99,000.00. States where recipients have attended college beside Oklahoma are, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico and Texas. The Edmond Public Schools Foundation administers the scholarship. The tax-deductible donations for the fund may be sent to 1001 West Danforth Road, Edmond, Oklahoma 73003. For questions contact Deanna Boston, Executive Director of the foundation, at 405-340-2819.


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Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 3 The UCO Foundation, in collaboration with descendants of the Steen family and the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Cordelia Steen Chapter, gathered to present the inaugural scholarship award to UCO student Logan Day. Pictured from left to right, Andrea Wallis Aven, regent of the NSDAR Cordelia Steen Chapter; David Macey, Ph.D., interim dean of the UCO College of Liberal Arts; Logan Day, a junior history major from Eufaula, Okla.; and, Katrina Lacher, Ph.D., chairperson of the UCO Department of History and Geography. PHOTO PROVIDED

DAR, Steen family team up to establish a scholarship The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation, in collaboration with descendants of the Steen family and the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Cordelia Steen Chapter, have established the Cordelia Steen Memorial Scholarship. The Cordelia Steen Memorial Scholarship was established to recognize the contributions made by the Steen family, the founding family of Edmond, and to provide an enduring legacy through an annual scholarship at UCO. Logan Day, a junior history major from Eufaula, Oklahoma, received the inaugural $2,000 scholarship for his accomplishments at UCO.

“I am so very honored to receive this scholarship, and what it means to me is more than I can possibly say,” Day said. During the scholarship presentation Andrea Wallis Aven, regent of the NSDAR Cordelia Steen Chapter, shared the history of the Steen family and the process of how the scholarship was established. The Steen family’s roots have an added connection to UCO in that Cordelia and John Steen’s daughter-in-law, Minnie Steen, ran a boarding house for Central State students for 40 years. In addition, the Steen’s granddaughter, Adeline Steen Minick, graduated from Central State Teachers College in 1931.

Edmond Women’s Club offering scholarships The Edmond Women’s Club (EWC) is happy to announce that it is currently accepting applications for its 2021 - 2022 EWC High School and Collegiate Scholarship Program. The EWC High School and Collegiate Scholarships are achievementbased scholarships awarded to graduating high school seniors and adults. Applicants are recognized for their capacity to lead and serve, as well as their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities. Applicants must be a current resident of Edmond, Oklahoma. Awarded scholarships may be used at any two or four-year college or university for payment of tuition, books, fees and education supplies. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2022 and mailed to:

Edmond Women’s Club Attn: Scholarship Committee P.O. Box 3046 Edmond, OK 73083-3046 If you are selected for an interview, you will be contåacted the week of Feb. 21, 2022. Interviews will be conducted on Saturday, March 5, 2022. Scholarships will be awarded at the April general meeting in 2022. Your interest in the Edmond Women’s Club Adult and High School Scholarship is appreciated and we look forward to reviewing your application. If you’d like any other information regarding the Edmond Women’s Club, please visit our website, www.ewc.org. The application can be found under Community / Grants and Scholarships.

The scholarship was an effort between Steve Zielinksi, M.D., the great-great-grandson of John and Cordelia Steen, his partner Elizabeth Barkley and the NSDAR. “We are deeply grateful to Dr. Zielinksi, Ms. Barkley and the Cordelia Steen Chapter for establishing this important new scholarship, which we are honored to administer,” said David Macey, Ph.D., interim dean for the UCO College of Liberal Arts. The Cordelia Steen Memorial Scholarship is open to current undergraduate and graduate students at UCO with a declared major or minor in history. To help, visit centralconnection.org/steen.


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From the Publisher

Wanted: LibertyFest memories This year there is a special celebration for our fourth of July activities that we call LibertyFest. It marks the 50th year of this nationally recognized event. Organizers of this years 50th Anniversary of LibertyFest would like to have your photographs of the events you have attended in conjunction with the award-winning festival and a few of your Ray Hibbard memories. We will use them in the official program that we produce for LibertyFest. You can email them to contact@libertyfest.org or send them to me at ray@edmondpaper.com. LibertyFest is the umbrella name that we give this celebration of our nation. It really encompasses a group of festivals that last over two weeks. It culminates with the fireworks display on the 4th of July, but you will not want to miss the host of other events that preceded the display. Edmond’s July 4th Festival is a non-profit 501(c)3 operation made up of individual volunteers from the Edmond area. Its purpose is to produce a series of family-oriented events around the 4th of July to celebrate the birthday of this great nation and the heritage of Oklahoma. As the host city of LibertyFest, Edmond highlights a series of events that help enhance the quality of life in Edmond, show pride in the community, support for non-profit and civic organizations, and provide educational opportunities. Having served on the LibertyFest committee including a year as president, I can promise you it is an all-volunteer effort. There is not one paid position putting on LibertyFest. What I love most about LibertyFest is that it brings together the resources of the City of Edmond, the University of Central Oklahoma, area businesses, civic organizations, families, and individuals to sponsor and support the festival events. Thanks to the level of support it receives, almost all the activities remain free to the public. What started as a simple conversation sharing ideas over coffee at Around the Corner in 1972 has grown to be a celebrated, honored, and decorated event. The best in the State of Oklahoma and perhaps the region. Longtime volunteers such as Gwen Springer and Jerry James have been volunteering with LibertyFest since the beginning. It has been a half a century celebration of our country that we look forward to continuing for the next 50 years. We hope you will join in this 50th Anniversary of LibertyFest and follow the progress including many new events leading up to the 4th of July in our weekly newspaper, Edmond Life & Leisure. We have once again been honored to be selected to produce the official program for LibertyFest which is both printed and online. It is your number one resource for all things to do with LibertyFest. Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher There is a Chickasaw Nation Production out on Netflix that anyone from Oklahoma should watch. It tells of a great part of our history that most of us did not get in our history classes in school but should have. It is also an entertaining movie which should be no surprise. Anything Chickasaw Governor Bill Anoatubby is involved with is first class. We really should make this guy our Oklahoma governor folks. The film is the true story of Chickasaw native Montford Johnson. The epic film spans from his birth

FILE PHOTO/MELINDA INFANTE

Last year’s Memorial band marched in the annual LibertyFest parade.

in 1843, through the tumultuous years of the Civil War and its aftermath, and the Land Rush of 1889. It was a time among settlers, cowboys, tribes, military and bandits. The film picks up during the civil war when both Union and Confederate troops were in Indian Territory and the native America tribes were stuck in the middle of the fight, not trusted by either side. The Chickasaw Nation Productions’ film portrays the great hardships and tragedy Johnson and those close to him overcame to establish a vast ranching empire along the famous cattle highway of the American West, the Chisholm Trail. The film stars Martin Sensmeier as Montford. Inspired by recounts of Johnson's life and the book “The Chickasaw Rancher.” The son of an Englishman and a Chickasaw woman, Johnson would befriend Jesse Chisholm, who convinced him to establish cattle ranches and trading posts in Indian Territory to serve fellow First Americans. Armed with determination and dreams of a better life, he had the grit and courage needed to tame what seemed an infinite wilderness, while always maintaining respect for the First Americans who lived there. Beautiful and treacherous, the Western plains of Indian Territory were home to one of the most colorful personalities of the 19th century. Orphaned at an early age, Johnson survived great hardships and tragedy to establish a vast ranching empire along the famous cattle highway of the American West, the Chisholm Trail. As his ranching empire expanded, Johnson’s perseverance established his legacy. Through conflicts with “Boomers” and cattle rustlers, and numerous personal tragedies, Johnson stood strong. His ranching practices, such as burning fields to control growth and reduce diseases spread by ticks, along with barbed wire fencing, are still used today. At the height of his ranching operation, Johnson accumulated a herd of over 35,000 head of cattle which grazed over a million acres of the newly created Indian Territory. Many tribes are represented within the cast of the movie. Sensmeier, who portrays Montford Johnson, is Tlingit and Koyukon-Athabascan. Tatanka Means,

who plays Rising Wolf, is an award-winning First American actor who represents the Oglala Lakota, Omaha and Navajo tribes. Casey Camp-Horinek portrays Granny Vicey and is a Ponca tribal member. Sonia Hoffman is a member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes and is cast as Asha, Rising Wolf’s wife. Rebeckah Boykin, a Choctaw model and actor, portrays Johnson’s sister, Adelaide. Eddie Easterling, a Chickasaw citizen, plays Jesse Chisholm. Other cast members include Dermot Mulroney, Tommy Flanagan, Grace Montie, James Landry Hébert, Denim Richards, Mackenzie Astin, Caleb Marten, Eddie Easterling, Danny Tracey, Cat Merritt, Richard Whitman, Zack Morris, Randy MendezKestler, Bella Muncy and Callan Wilson. Most of the film was captured on Oklahoma soil during the spring and summer. Davis, Reagan and Fort Gibson were key filming locations. It is the third feature film produced by the Chickasaw Nation, joining “Te Ata” and “Pearl” in its effort to tell the story of the Chickasaw people. Montford’s cattle ranch spanned a huge part of central Oklahoma, including modern-day Oklahoma City. Montford was widely known as an honest man who made business decisions that were beneficial to all involved. It reminded me a lot of Governor Anoatubby. He was also known for his charitable actions. Montford regularly gave food to starving First Americans who had been neglected by the U.S. government. He also took in many orphaned children, giving them a loving home in which they could grow. Montford worked to improve the lives of fellow First Americans who had been forced onto reservations by the U.S. government, making agreements that allowed them to take cattle from his herds whenever they needed food. Montford died in Minco, Oklahoma, on Feb. 17, 1896. Next time you have a cold day inside, be sure and watch this film. It is appropriate for the whole family to watch. It is a welcome relief from what Hollywood has to offer and you learn a bit more about Oklahoma history. (Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside! ---- Police report ..............................................................................Page 6. ---- Weekend calendar of Events ......................................................Page 6. ---- Senior news ................................................................................Page 9. ---- Columnist puzzled by an odd speech ......................................Page 10. ---- Elaine Warner looks at South Carolina town’ ..........................Page 12. ---- George Gust reviews a film ......................................................Page 14. ---- Crossword puzzle ....................................................................Page 14. ---- Business news ..........................................................................Page 17. ---- Comics ....................................................................................Page 18. ---- Worship directory ....................................................................Page 19. This, and much more, in this week’s edition!

See if you can find ‘Four Seasons’ “Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011. Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable. For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com Production Deanne York Advertising Director Business Editor Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Patty Miller, Rose Drebes, and George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2022 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved. Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing. edmondlifeandleisure.com facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure


Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 5

Free COVID-19 tests, official announces Recently the Oklahoma Insurance Department issued a special notice regarding coverage of athome, over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests. Effective now, group health plans and health insurance issuers offering group or individual health insurance coverage must cover OTC COVID-19 tests. Under the new guidelines, the tests may either be free or reimbursed by the insurer. Health plans and insurance companies are incentivized to set up a network of pharmacies or retailers so their members can conveniently order or pick up COVID-19 tests that will be covered up-front. OID requested that all regulated insurance companies provide a description of how the administration of coverage for at-home OTC COVID-19 tests

will be handled and communicated to their insureds and members. “Like the rest of the nation, Oklahoma is facing a new surge with the omicron variant. Continued testing is critical to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring the health and safety of our communities,” Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready said. “I encourage Oklahomans to take advantage of at-home testing and available local testing sites to help keep people safe with early detection.” If you purchase an over-the-counter COVID-19 test from a pharmacy, store, or online retailer and are charged for your test, keep your receipt and submit a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. If your plan has not set up a network of preferred stores, pharmacies, and online retailers at

which you can obtain a test with no out-ofpocket expense, consumers will be reimbursed the amount of the cost of the test. For example, if you buy a two-pack of tests for $34, the plan or insurer would reimburse $34. If your plan has set up a network of preferred stores, pharmacies, and online retailers at which you can obtain a test with no out-ofpocket expense, you can still obtain tests from other retailers if you buy them outside of that network. Your plan is required to reimburse you at a rate of up to $12 per individual test (or the cost of the test, if less than $12). Save your receipt(s) to submit to your plan for reimbursement at a rate of up to $12 per individual test (or the cost of the test, if less than $12).

OID’s Special Notice Regarding Coverage for At-Home, Over-the-Counter COVID-19 Tests: https://www.oid.ok.g ov/special-notice-otccovid-testing/. CMS's FAQs: https://www.cms.gov /files/document/1102 2-faqs-otc-testing-guidance.pdf If you have questions about other insurance issues, please contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1-800-522-0071 or visit our website at www.oid.ok.gov.

Submit local news to news@edmondpaper.com


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(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. 4 Deantre Lee Owens, 29, of Edmond. Possess firearm after conviction of a felony, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, possess drug paraphernalia and two counts possession CDS. Garrison Samuel Shears, 22 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. Joseph Lynn Goin, 29 of Yukon, Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more. Jan. 5 Domoinique Delajuwon Markel Natt, 34 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia and possession CDS. Artis Alexander Reed, 29 of Oklahoma City. Non-assault resisting officer and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Harrison Alan Higdon, 18 of Edmond. Intoxicating beverage in possession by person under 21, possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and under 21 operate (DUI/APC) a motor vehicle under influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substance. Michael Angelo Smith, 33 homeless. Three counts of failure to appear. Rachell Marie Cashion, 30 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of failure to appear. Shawnelle Ellise McHenry, 46 of Oklahoma City. Four felony warrants and (misdemeanor first and second offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer. Zachary David Black, 20 of Edmond. Cutting across private service driveway and failure to appear. Jan. 6 Miranda Michaela Fender, 36 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia , possession of marijuana and public intoxication. Jan. 7 Santonio Sanchez Morrison, 52 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more. Robert Allen Lyman, 70 of Guthrie. Felony DUI/APC.

Ernesto Hernandez, 28 of Edmond. Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and felony DUI/APC. Isaiah Lamar Coulter, 30 homeless. Trespassing after being forbidden. Andrew James McFarland, 32 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Carlisa Gwendolyn Davis, 32 homeless. Felony Warrant. Jan. 9 Teron Kire Cooks, 30 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and three counts of failure to appear. Arrowanna Elizabeth Taylor, 19 of Guthrie. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or combination of schedule 1 chemical or controlled substance. Kamron Joseph Sagers, 20 of Norman. Public intoxication. Antheon Delano Robertson, 43 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Kristi Jean Mieroff, 40 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Zoe Nicole McKenzie, 18 of Edmond. Operating a motor vehicle with improper equipment, expired tag one to three months and driving without proper/valid driver’s license.

Weekend Calendar of Events Jan. 20-23 p.m.; Free; edmondhistory.org

What’s Happening This Weekend Jan. 20-23

---- In the Gallery: Natalie Miller ---- Exhibit: The Clue in the Museum-A Nancy Drew-Inspired Detective Adventure ---- Downtown in December ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Gallery Talk with Marium Rana ---- Kicker Arenacross & Freestyle Motocross Show ---- Bondi Bowls Grand Opening ---- Signature Tour ---- Construction of a Portrait ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Masters of the Musical Theater ---- Oklahoma Gun Show ---- Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show

Extra Information In the Gallery: Natalie Miller Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: featuring the art of Natalie Miller; edmondfinearts.com Exhibit: The Clue in the Museum-A Nancy Drew-Inspired Detective Adventure Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: through Mon, Jan 31; 10 a.m. – 5

Downtown in December Location: Downtown, Oklahoma City Extra Info: Thu, Nov 18 – Sun, Jan 30; downtownindecembrer.com Devon Ice Rink Location: 113 S Robinson Ave, OKC Extra Info: through Sun, Jan 30; hours vary; downtownindecembrer.com Gallery Talk with Marium Rana Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Melton Gallery Extra Info: Thu, Jan 20; 5 – 7:30; Free; meltongallery.com Kicker Arenacross & Freestyle Motocross Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: Fri, Jan 21 – Sat, Jan 22; 7 p.m.; $18$30; Facebook.com Bondi Bowls Grand Opening Location: Bondi Bowls Extra Info: Sat, Jan 22; 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.; bondibowls.com Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage

Official releases audit for town State Auditor & Inspector Cindy Byrd has released her investigative audit of the Town of Bennington in Bryan County. After a thorough review of the town’s financial records, Byrd discovered multiple violations of standard accounting procedures and significant misappropriation of taxpayer dollars. Among the most serious incidents of misappropriation are more than $100,000 in unpaid payroll taxes, unauthorized payments to several town employees, and a police chief who signed over the title of a town vehicle but the money was never deposited in the town’s bank account. Police Chief Kristopher Robinson also received $877 in free utility payments and was provided a tax-free residency that was not reported to the I.R.S. “I use the word ‘misappropriation’ because it’s up to a judge and a jury to decide if this was embezzlement,” said Cindy Byrd. “This was a small-scale audit but what we uncovered is both important and revealing. This audit shows taxpayers a prime example of what happens when an oversight board abandons its responsi-

State Auditor Cindy Byrd

bilities. Their negligence set the stage that allowed employees to take advantage of other people’s trust and shortchange the taxpayers.” The Town of Bennington has a population of fewer than 400 people and an annual budget of approximately $250,000. Also named in the audit are Clerk-Treasurer Kathy Wilkinson and Assistant Police Chief Randy Smith. The full audit report is available on the State Auditor's Website:

Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jan 22 & Sun, Jan 23; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Construction of a Portrait Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jan 22; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Oklahoma Gun Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: Sat, Jan 22 – Sun, Jan 23; oklahomagunshows.com Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: Fri, Jan 21 – Sun, Jan 23; oklahomacityhomeshow.com

Please send calendar items to Melinda Infante at infante318@cox.net

OSU gearing up for 2022 Craft Beer Forum of Okla. The 2022 Craft Beer Forum of Oklahoma will again bring together the state’s best craft breweries and lovers of all things beer and food for an educational experience for the taste buds at Oklahoma State University. The forum, held every two years, takes place April 9 on the OSU campus in Stillwater. This year’s Craft Beer Forum of Oklahoma includes a day of seminars for craft beer newbies and experts alike, as well as tastings of 30 top craft breweries from Oklahoma and beyond. The forum is open to anyone 21 or older. Tickets and event information are available at the website: https://business.okstate.edu/departments_programs/htm/craft-beer-forum/index .html 2022 Craft Beer Forum of Oklahoma highlights: • Seminars covering topics from beer tasting to opening a brewery to the science of yeast health and fermentation and much more;

• The Pint-N-Bite tasting event highlighting beers from 30 breweries complemented by foods prepared by top chefs. Also, in conjunction with the Craft Beer Forum, the Oklahoma Craft Beer Awards competition will be judged March 5 at OSU with results announced prior to the forum. Joel Irby, owner of Stonecloud Brewing Company in downtown Oklahoma City, will be the honorary chair for this year’s event. The Craft Beer Forum of Oklahoma is planned and executed by students in OSU’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) in the Spears School of Business. The event not only teaches students how to plan large events, but also raises money for scholarships. “We’re excited to once again host some of the best breweries from across the state and facilitate a fun and educational dialogue about the state of the craft beer industry,” said Tony Collins, director of the HTM Wayne Hirst Center for Beverage Education.


Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 7

OC announces two new leadership roles With a mission to drive modernization and growth at Oklahoma Christian University, President John deSteiguer named two new roles on the president’s cabinet with Dr. L. Ken Jones to serve as Chancellor and Dr. Brandon Tatum to serve as Executive Vice President. The announcement comes less than a year into deSteiguer’s extended five-year contract leading OC. “While higher education has faced unprecedented disruption over the past two years, Oklahoma Christian has demonstrated its strength as a Christ-centered private institution,” deSteiguer said. “The university has achieved thrilling results in growing academic programs this past year by investing in people and aligning resources around innovation. To build upon this momentum, I am expanding our leadership team with two new roles who will work closely with me and the Board of Trustees in setting a bold strategy and vision for OC’s future.” As Chancellor, Dr. Jones will be a vital member of OC's senior leadership team, provide visionary counsel to the President and mentor employees across campus to develop their leadership poJones tential. Dr. Jones most recently served as chancellor of Lubbock Christian from 2011 to 2017. Prior to becoming chancellor, he was the university’s fifth president from May 1993 to January 2011. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Dr. Jones obtained a Ph.D. in Engineering from Oklahoma State University where he worked in the profession for several years until he answered a call to ministry where he served several churches as the preaching minister. Dr. Jones is the author of Leadership After God’s Own Heart and The Ultimate Leader. Dr. Jones and his wife, Suzie, have two married children and four grandchildren. They live on their ranch in Cordell, Oklahoma. “Dr. Jones is well-known as a strong leader of excellence and integrity among his peers in the private Christian university community,” deSteiguer said. “His wisdom and knowledge of higher education in this sector is unmatched, and we could not be more pleased to welcome him to the OC family.” As Executive Vice President, Dr. Brandon Tatum will support the president and work with faculty and staff

campus wide to strategically align university resources to grow existing programs and expand innovative partnerships. Dr. Tatum most recently served as OC’s Chief Strategy Officer, where he generated more than $2 million in new revenue for the university by establishing New College. Among other programs, OC’s New College offers the OC para-professional program and a work-based nursing program, and has tripled the size of OC’s dual enrollment program with high schools. These three efforts have resulted in 1,676 new non-traditional students enrolled at OC since January 2020. “Dr. Tatum understands the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, and no one better anticipates and envisions programs, models and approaches that resonate in the marketplace of learning,” deSteiguer said. “He champions progress through innovation, and challenges traditional approaches that have lost their effectiveness. He foresees the needs of both students and employers before they are obvious. I am thrilled to have Dr. Tatum serving OC in this capacity.” Dr. Tatum has spent his career working to innovate in both higher education and K-12. Tatum is the founder of ConnectEdu and XR Box, companies focused on innovation by creating releTatum vant and vibrant educational opportunities for non-traditional college students. Dr. Tatum’s doctoral degree is from Abilene Christian University in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Higher Education. He is often sought to advise policymakers in Oklahoma on education, presenting before the State Legislature, serving on Governor Stitt’s education policy committee in 2019, and serving as a Governor’s appointee on the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board. Previously, Dr. Tatum served as President of Oklahoma Christian Academy and Executive Director of the National Christian School Association. Brandon and his wife Megan have three children and reside in Edmond, Oklahoma. On Feb. 17, 2021, the OC Board of Trustees announced an extension to President John deSteiguer’s term. The Board’s decision demonstrates support for deSteiguer’s vision and confidence in the University’s direction under his leadership.


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Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 9

A few simple precautions may help prevent a senior from suffering an injury that could sideline their workout routine.

How active seniors can avoid injury risk Physical activity is one of the key components of a healthy lifestyle. Though physical activity benefits people of all ages, it can be especially helpful for seniors by making it easier for them to overcome some of the obstacles associated with aging. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, physical activity supports dail living activities and independence. That’s a significant benefit for seniors who are worried that age-related physical and mental decline might one day compromise their ability to live independently. The CDC also notes that physical activity lowers the risk for early death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. The CDC reports that physical activity is generally safe for fit individuals who are 65 and older and have no existing conditions. Despite that, it’s best for any senior to consult his or her physician prior to beginning a new exercise regimen. Once doctors give seniors the go-ahead to begin a new workout routine, seniors can take the following steps to reduce their risk for injury. • Warm up before working out. Seniors may think they don’t need to warm up before exercis-

ing because their workouts are not as high-intensity as they might have been when they were younger. But Harvard Medical School notes that warming up pumps nutrient-rich, oxygenated blood to the muscles and helps increase heart rate. The American Council on Exercise reports that warming up helps reduce workout-related injury risk by improving tissue elasticity. So prior to beginning a workout, regardless of how moderate- or low-intensity that regimen will be, seniors should warm up for five to 10 minutes. • Start with a routine that’s commensurate with your abilities. Seniors excited by the prospect of working out must temper that excitement if they’re not accustomed to physical activity. Such individuals should consider working with a personal trainer. Personal trainers design exercise regimens based on each individual client’s fitness levels and goals. As clients make progress and their bodies become acclimated to routine physical activity, personal trainers can then tweak regimens to make them more challenging. Seniors can take on these responsibilities themselves, but are urged to begin slowly and gradually build up their exercise

tolerance. • Don’t skip strength training. Seniors may think lifting weights is for young people who want to look buff, but the AARP® notes that musclestrengthening activities protect the joints, reducing seniors’ risk for injury as a result. The Department of Health & Human Services recommends seniors who have been cleared to exercise engage in strength training at least twice per week. • Stretch after your workout. Harvard Medical School reports that efforts to cool down after a workout, including stretching, can prevent muscle cramps and dizziness a nd lengthen muscles throughout the body, which improves range of motion. Harvard Medical School recommends holding each stretch for 10 to 30 seconds, as the longer a stretch can be held the more flexible individuals’ muscles will be. Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle for seniors. Active seniors can take various steps to reduce their injury risk so they can continue to reap the rewards of exercising for years to come.


Page 10 • January 20, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

One odd political move Justice doesn’t understand By Steve Gust President Biden puzzles me. The guy has a long history in politics, stretching back to multiple senate campaigns starting in the 1970s. Then you can tack on a few vice presidential Steve Gust races and many stabs at the presidency before coming out on top in 2020. With that background, you’d think his political instincts would be a lot better than what he showed last week. The president went to Georgia and advocated for voting reform. There’s no crime there. He’s the president and can plug his plans and programs all he wants. I don’t think his alleged voting rights bill has anything to do with voting integrity. It simply wants to make it a lot easier to warp the vote and usurp voting laws in all 50 states. It’s

absolutely ridiculous. If these laws were enacted, nobody would ever have any faith in the results of any election. Not only that, but BIden’s appeal for these sham voting laws was just absurd. He said if you opposed these farcical measures then you were on the side of George Wallace, Bull Connor and Jefferson Davis. What I don’t understand is Biden surely knew the Senate didn’t have the 60 votes to proceed with the measures. (I’m assuming the rules will stay the same, but you never know.) So why would Biden call half of all Americans racist? Where did that get him? Even liberal Democrat Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin said Biden went too far. And if he was willing to admit that publicly, you have to wonder what Durbin was saying privately. Biden’s Georgia speech seemed to be a political misstep for someone who should have known a lot better. —--

See Gust, Page 11

By Rep. Jay Steagall OKLAHOMA CITY – On Jan. 7, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor stated, "I'm not sure I understand the distinction-why the states would have the power but the federal government wouldn't," in regard to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) "emergency temporary standard" (ETS) requiring companies with 100 or more employees to be vaccinated or wear face masks while at work and submit to weekly testing. That type of statement from a sitting justice is very concerning and unacceptable. Either Justice Sotomayor is ignorant on the subject of separation of powers, or she is deliberately attempting to di-

lute the powers of the states while simultaneously concentrating undelegated powers to the federal government – or both. The Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states, "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people." This very simple and straight-forward provision of our Constitution both illustrates the vertical separation of powers penned by the framers, and quells any assertion that the federal government has the same collective powers as the states, as Justice Sotomayor incorrectly al-

luded to in her statement. Known as "the father of our Constitution," James Madison wrote in The Federalist Papers, No. 45, "The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State governments are numerous and indefinite. The former will be exercised principally on external objects, as war, peace, negotiation and foreign commerce.... The powers reserved to the several States will extend to all the objects which in the ordinary course of affairs, concern the lives and liberties, and properties of the people, and the internal order, improvement and prosperity of the State." Here, Madison delineates the differences in the limitation and focus of the powers delegated to the federal government versus the extensive and unrestricted reserved powers of the states. The most important reserved state power is that in Article V which provides for amending the Constitution. Through this provision, it is the People, through their respective state legislatures, that ratify changes to the compact [Constitution]. This is not a power shared with the federal government – imagine the tyranny that would reign should the federal government have that power! It is through this power that restrictions are placed on government – such restrictions are found in the Bill of Rights as well as the main text of the Constitution. It is imperative for a Supreme Court Justice to understand the

Justice, Page 11

Getting the U.S. out of human trafficking By Sen. James Lankford Unfortunately, coyote human smugglers in Central America, child traffickers in Central Asia, and forced labor in the center of our government are all happening today. This month, during Human Trafficking Awareness Month— and everyday—hundreds of nonprofits in the US and around the world are savLankford ing adults and children from being trafficked for forced labor, sexual exploitation, or other forms of the disgusting practice of trading, buying, and selling human beings. The US government and each American should do everything we can to stop it. Everything. But are we? Several years ago, I traveled to the Middle East to encourage our troops and to conduct oversight

of our contractors. Painfully, on some bases overseas, we had some horrifying actions taking place. Some government contractors brought foreign nationals to work on the base, then confiscated their passports, underpaid them, and blocked their departure. Forced labor on our bases. Human trafficking. When our tax dollars are used to facilitate the trafficking of human beings, that violates everything our nation stands for. Protecting life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness is not just an American value; it is a guide post for a better life in any nation for any individual. Learning about what was happening on our bases led to my introducing the End Trafficking in Government Contracting Act of 2012, which was designed to force us to examine each contract, discover how prevalent human trafficking was in our contracting, and then stop it for good. You’d think when the bill was passed, trafficking would end on our bases. But it turned out to be just the first step. Part of that law included requirements for regu-

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.

lar assessments to monitor, detect, and prevent contractors from engaging in these abhorrent practices. A recently published Government Accountability Office (GAO) report as well as annual Defense Department Inspector General (IG) reports show that human trafficking tragically still exists in overseas government contracts. My original bill in 2012 made sure we acknowledged the problem that our government was helping human traffickers. Identifying where it’s happening ensures we can actually stop it. While these reports are helpful, it’s now obvious we need to take additional action to ensure the State Department and Department of Defense can guarantee to American taxpayers that we are not paying for this shameful practice. I am now introducing the End Trafficking in Government Contracting Act of 2022 to prohibit the US government from funding or participating in human trafficking of vulnerable third-country workers through our contracts overseas, including in defense and national security, and end this practice for good. This bill would end any contract found to be involved in human trafficking by requiring all infractions to be sent to suspension and debarment officials, which will prevent any contractor found to be participating in human trafficking from doing business ever again with US taxpayer dollars. The hammer now has to be swift and strong against participating in human trafficking. Every senator, every House member, and the president should support my bill to keep the US government out of the sad and disgusting business of human trafficking with Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars. We’re the United States of America. We should always value life and seek to protect the most vulnerable in our society and around the world.


Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 11

Bills filed address marijuana & sports betting Rep. Sean Roberts, R-Hominy, has announced recently that he plans to file legislation modifying the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act and the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Waste Management Act. "When medical marijuana was legalized in Oklahoma, it basically created a 'Wild West' situation as we did not have enough legal structure in place to address all future issues that could arise," Roberts said. "As the years have passed, we have a better understanding of what we are doing right and what we need to fix. These changes that I am proposing will stop the many illegal operations in our state run by foreign actors, such as criminal Chinese enterprises or cartels, who participate in human trafficking and are smuggling their illegal narcotics out of Oklahoma to other states. We have a duty to Oklahomans, and our surrounding states, to rein in this situation before it gets even more out of hand." The legislation proposed by Roberts would change Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) ownership residency re-

quirements. Specifically the bill would change OMMA residency requirements from 75% of owners living in Oklahoma to 100%. It also states that if an Oklahoman is found to be a middleman for an entity outside the state, their license shall be suspended and due process given to them. Finally, it would direct OMMA to determine and award incentives to Oklahomans who report illegal marijuana grow operations to them. Legislators have until Jan. 20, to formally introduce bills and joint resolutions for the upcoming session which begins on Feb. 7. —— Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City, announced today that he has filed House Bill 3008, a bill that would add in-person sports betting to the Oklahoma state-tribal gaming compact. "I have had conversations with our gaming tribes during the interim to gauge their interest on this topic," Luttrell said. "I feel the time is right for Oklahoma to partner with the tribes and ensure a level, competitive gaming playing field with the sur-

OG&E helps Virginians Early Friday morning, OG&E deployed nearly 80 restoration personnel to Virginia where another high impact winter storm is projected to arrive on the East Coast this weekend. The company sent a fleet of OG&E trucks, crew members, contractors and support personnel to Richmond, Va., where they will arrive late Saturday, ready to restore power to communities that experience outages. Forecasts for the mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions include a high probability of significant snow totals, strong winds, ice accumulation and freezing rain. In anticipation of a large number of storm related outages, Dominion Energy in Virginia requested support from OG&E. “We appreciate assistance we have received in Oklahoma and Arkansas when it is needed and are happy to answer the call when asked,” said Andrea Dennis, OG&E Vice President of Transmission & Distribution Operations. “We know people depend on electricity and our industry has long

supported each other when disaster strikes.” Prior to Dominion Energy’s request, OG&E’s most recent deployment for assistance was in August of 2021 to help Entergy Louisiana with power restoration in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. “OG&E crews are often asked by utility companies across the nation for assistance because of our team’s reputation for high-quality, efficient work,” said Dennis. “We are a trusted partner and want to lend a hand.” Mutual assistance crews are typically deployed for up to 14 days. If assistance is needed beyond two weeks, OG&E will rotate in additional crews. Even as this team deploys to Virginia, OG&E is monitoring the potential for winter weather moving into Oklahoma and western Arkansas this weekend and will maintain full capacity to support daily operations for customers.

Gust From Page 10 Last week the publicity surrounding an after-school Satan club certainly got my attention. It is happening at a public school in Illinois and was formed in response to the establishment of a youth Christian club. The people forming the devil club claim legal protection. Maybe. But I wonder where school authorities would draw the line for some other after school clubs? Could we have the Hitler or Stalin Youth clubs or the Jun-

ior KKK or anarchist clubs? Perhaps the Charles Manson Admiration Society? I’d like to think we wouldn’t, but in this nutty political climate we live in today, who can say for sure? I do have a feeling a lot of school patrons in these parts wouldn’t stand for it at all. Those school board meetings would have lots of rancor. (Steve Gust may be e-mailed at news@edmondpaper.com)

Justice From Page 10

facts that the states themselves retain the power to regulate the actions of the federal government, and there are no provisions that allow the federal government to restrict actions of the states outside of the agreed upon provisions stated in the compact (which the states still retain the power to change). Should Justice Sotomayor's statement have been made in an effort to intentionally dilute the powers of the states, then her motives must be brought into question. If it is her intent to disregard the provisions of our Constitution, which she took an oath of affirmation to support

and defend, then Congress should find her in dereliction of duty and remover her from office. Justices are not "untouchable;" the Constitution provides for a mechanism to remove them from the bench – impeachment. Justice Sotomayor made her statement either out of ignorance or destructive political desire; either way, it is extremely dangerous and reprehensible for a sitting member of the Supreme Court to assert such a skewed and inflammatory opinion that undermines the very Constitution she has sworn an oath to uphold.

rounding states." According to Luttrell, there are currently 30 states with legal sports betting and another 15 considering it in 2022. He said that Arkansas has legalized it in their casinos and Kansas is currently working on an agreement of their own. "Illegal sports betting occurs throughout Oklahoma, and figures I obtained from the Okla-

homa State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) show 11 offenses recently with tens of thousands of dollars seized," Luttrell added. "This reflects only a fraction of what actually occurs in our state. The Oxford Economics Group estimates that legal sports betting would generate $240 million in revenue for Oklahoma and create over 3000 direct and indirect jobs. “


Page 12 • January 20, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

The Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame in Hopelands Gardens salutes the horses, owners, and riders that made Aiken famous in racing circles.

Aiken SC — a hotbed for beauty & horses Elaine Warner It’s true – good things often do come in small packages. That’s also true for small towns. Aiken, South Carolina, population 31, 041, is one of those Elaine places. And that’s just the people. I wish I could give you the horse population. Far from being a one-horse town, Aiken is a hotbed of horse activity. In the late 1800s, frozen Northerners discovered Aiken as the perfect winter getaway for home and horses. Their legacy – Live Oak-canopied streets lined with historic houses, a heritage of equine experiences, preservation of one of America’s largest urban forests and the elegance of an earlier age with the addition of up-to-date amenities. These early migrants came for the mild weather – perfect for polo and fox-hunting. They built large homes in areas now designated the Winter Districts. Their heritage carries on today where riders have the right-ofway – there’s even a horse-crossing button to stop traffic on one busy corner. Equestrian events draw spectators almost year-round; although the main activities take place in cooler months. The Aiken Polo Club was established in the 1880s and is one of the oldest in the country. Watch teams compete on Sunday afternoons during the spring and fall seasons. While the rest of the country tailgates at football games, polo fans tailgate, too.

Horses, they’re everywhere in Aiken

From coolers with sandwiches out of the trunk to tents with champagne and chandeliers, everyone is welcome. Many of the horses you’ll see in America’s most prestigious races have trained in Aiken. The Aiken Training Track has been turning out winners since the early ‘40s. In March, spectators turn out for the Aiken Triple Crown. Three consecutive weekends feature the Aiken Trials – flat racing for young Thoroughbreds; the Aiken Spring Steeplechase; and Pacers and Polo. Channel your inner Pretty Woman during half-time at the polo match by joining others on the field to stomp out hoof-produced divots. Don’t be surprised at the number of unpaved roads in the area. Many horse facilities are located right in the city with these dirt roads serving as exercise routes for equine occupants – paved surfaces are hard on hooves. Enjoy a visit to the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum housed in the 1902 Carriage House in Hopelands Gardens. This is a two-fer. Not only do you learn about Thoroughbreds in Aiken but you can also tour the beautiful gardens associated with the original estate. In spring and early summer this is a great outdoor venue for concerts. Architecture buffs love the history and variety of the many beautiful homes in Aiken. In the three Winter Colony Districts, you’ll find magnificent mansions, built between 1880 and 1930, often accompanied by elegant stables for high-pedigreed steeds. From comfortable Colonial Revival

A Crepe Lorraine at La Parisienne may be French, but the walls are pure Aiken

structures and elegant Classical Revival mansions to elaboratelytrimmed Victorians, the Winter Colony Districts provide a veritable manual of architectural styles. Though horses rule the road in Aiken, this isn’t a one-track town. Arts and culture thrive here with a ballet company, symphony orchestra, youth symphony and several choral organizations. The University of South Carolina in Aiken offers theater and musical performances during the school term. The annual Joye in Aiken Festival (named for historic Joye Cottage) brings fine musicians, including many from the famous Juilliard School, for a series of concerts. The Joye in Aiken Jazz Camp provides opportunities for students and performances for the public. For a special stay, book a room at The Willcox, the only remaining hotel from the Gilded Age. Founded in the late 19th century, the hostelry catered to the upper crust. Unbeknownst to prospective guests, the bellman would check to see if their footwear was made by Peal or Maxwell of London. If not, they were told there were no rooms. Don’t worry – today you’ll be welcomed (maybe don’t go in barefoot!) Built in dignified neo-classical style with a six-columned portico, the hotel features spacious public areas including a living-room-like lobby bar for tea, coffee, a cocktail and light refreshments. The dining room is gracious and the menu intriguing. I was staying here with two other writers. We’d traveled together a number of times but still could be surprised at the things we have in common. We discovered one of the

Willcox’s great treats when we found chicken liver pâté on the menu. We had no idea that each of us was a liver lover! We absolutely demolished the ample portion of pâté, which was topped with port wine gelée and served with grilled toast. (If you’re not a liver lover, don’t worry, there are many other choices!) We found lots of other tasty treats during our visit from French crepes at the Parisienne to the burger and bourbon special at Whiskey Alley downtown. Also downtown, Betsy’s Round the Corner is a throw-back to the ‘50s with Blue Plate Specials and plenty of Southern comfort food options. Chef-owned Malia’s offers a more sophisticated menu complete with suggested wine pairings. In addition to great eateries, the streets are lined with interesting boutiques. Many of them feature horsethemed items and even one of the alleys sports a mural of horses looking through stall doors. While downtown, check out the 1912 Classical Revival building at Laurens and Park. It was once the city post office. Part-time resident Fred Astaire used to delight passersby as he danced down the stairs after picking up his mail. A visit to the Aiken County History Museum gives visitors a great overview of local history. As a bonus, it is housed in Banksia, a beautiful Winter Colony mansion. For more contemporary history visit the Savannah River Site Museum. I was prepared for a ho-hum, in-and-out stop of about 15 minutes. Was I ever surprised! This little museum gives the history of a facility critical to the country during the Cold War – producing tritium and plutonium for the arms and later space race. Today SMS concentrates on non-proliferation and peaceful projects, cleaning up nuclear waste and irradiated areas, developing technology to aid with these efforts, and studying the effects of nuclear activity on ecology. My favorite exhibit involved using a safe box with built-in protective gloves to try to build with Legos. Education Specialist Evelyn Berry added a world of interesting information. So, my recommendation is – visit Aiken for horses and history and enjoy so much more than you expected. FYI: The closest airport is in Augusta, Georgia – so if you’re headed to the Masters Golf Tournament in March, consider adding Aiken to your itinerary.


Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 13

Helping to break the cycle of addiction While many families were forced to stay home during the Pandemic, Peaceful Family Solutions was busy forging new partnerships under the leadership of a new Executive Director. Lisa Reed, MSW an innovative leader whose heart for children of addiction as well as expertise in strategic planning, fundraising and outcome measurement, was eager to return to her roots. Over the past year she has been working closely with the staff, board, other non-profits and community leaders to identify how they can meet the needs of the children of approximately 267,000 adults in Oklahoma struggling with substance use disorders, a problem exacerbated by COVID-related isolation. The path has brought about new partnerships to better serve the children, and now a new name: Peaceful Family Oklahoma! Learn more about our services at www.peacefulfamilyok.org or call (405) 601-2691. Breaking the cycle of multi-generational addiction by providing an intensive play-based age-appropriate program for children 712, and a healing supportive community for the entire family, Peaceful Family Oklahoma (formerly Peaceful Family Solutions), a 501C(3) was founded in 2014. “Lisa’s commitment, leadership and enthusiasm has built on our vision and will take us into our next chapter” says Mike Barcum, Founder of Peaceful Family Solutions. “Her ability to look with fresh eyes on the challenges facing the children we serve, while partnering with caregivers and others in our community to shape a new path for our future, is more exciting than we ever anticipated. Our next step is to change the name of the organization to reflect the broadening scope of reach in our community. Going forward we are happy to announce a name change from “Peaceful Family Solutions” to “Peaceful Family Oklahoma.” One vital partnership that has emerged is with the Arnall Family Foundation. “Peaceful Family Oklahoma teaches children that their parent’s substance use disorder is not their fault and helps them understand the complexities of addiction. We are proud to support their important work to disrupt the multi-generational cycles of addiction by empowering children and strengthening families,” said Sue Ann Arnall, president of the Arnall Family Foundation and committee member of the Arnall Community Fund at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. In addition, the Oklahoma County Family Treatment Courts recently made Peaceful Family Oklahoma’s services available as an option, to more families, caregivers, and foster families in Oklahoma County. “By approaching this as a community problem without judgement, we can better surround our children with the tools and support they need to heal, thus breaking the cycle of addiction.” says Reed. “Addressing family addiction with compassion and understanding, and working together for a solution, we can begin to envision a time when every Oklahoma child will be living in a peaceful family, free from addiction.

Play-based age-appropriate program for children 7-12, is a big part of the approach by

Peaceful Family Solutions. The group aims to break the cycle of addiction experienced by thousands of families in Oklaoma.


Page 14 • January 20, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’

Actors take on and conquer Bard challenge By George Gust “The Tragedy of Macbeth” is the most recent film adaption of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” from director Joel Coen. A Scottish lord (Denzel Washington) becomes convinced by a trio of witches that he will become the next King of Scotland, and his ambitious wife (Frances McDormand) supports him in his plans of seizing power. There have been many modern Shakespeare adaptations and it seems as though there are two roads that a filmmaker can take: faithful or inventive. “The Tragedy of Macbeth” falls squarely in the ‘faithful’ category, retaining all the Shakespearian language and heightened performance. This film isn’t trying to make Macbeth ‘cool’ or update the setting, instead director Joel Coen has crafted an elegantly designed portrayal of the renowned play, with knockout performance from the A list cast. “The Tragedy of Macbeth” was filmed in black and white and while the lack of color is usually a signal that this is serious and arty Oscar type of film, it is employed so expertly by the filmmakers. This film is incredibly striking from a visual perspective. The use of light and shadow come

across the screen and highlight the emotions of the scene. While there’s a steep learning curve for keeping up with the Shakespearian dialogue, the impressive visual style and masterful performances bring the play to life in a way that can be understood even if you’re struggling to cypher the poetic prose. With some movies you can lament the poor writing by saying “Well, it ain’t Shakespeare” but when your adapting a play by The Bard it becomes a prime opportunity for actors to show they have the chops to bring the famed writing to life. In “The Tragedy of Macbeth” Washington

and McDormand prove that they are up to the task and provide engaging and compelling performances from start to finish. There is an intensity that they bring to their performances that convey the themes of the play so richly in this adaptation. Overall, “The Tragedy of Macbeth” is a faithful adaptation of the famous play that brings thoughtful artistic touches to one of the great works of literature. It’s the kind of movie that English teachers across the country will be glad exists as it is a fantastic realization of the play and is still engaging for modern audiences. If you are expecting a brash and colorful adaptation like “Romeo + Juliet” from the 90s you’ll be disappointed, but “The Tragedy of Macbeth” hits its target of being a haunting and artistic take on the Macbeth. “The Tragedy of Macbeth” is rated R for violence. Available in theaters and with an Apple TV Plus subscription. 4.2 out of 5 stars You can reach George Gust to comment at gust.george@gmail.com,

PHOTO PROVIDED

Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand bring to life Shakespeare's ‘Macbeth’ in Joel Coen's masterful adaption ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth.’

Symphony delays season Answers appearing on Page 19

The OKCPHIL announces the delayed beginning of the second half of its season. The following concerts, originally scheduled for January and early February, will be postponed to later dates, as detailed below: Inasmuch Foundation Classics Series concert “Rachmaninoff Festival!” – Moved to March 24, 2022 Chickasaw Nation Pops Series concert “Masters of the Musical Theater” – Moved to June 2-3, 2022 Inasmuch Foundation Classics Series concert “American Gold” – Moved to June 9, 2022 E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation Discovery Family Series concert “Pirates of the High Seas” – New Date TBD The decision was made due to the large scale of these programs, and in response to the extraordinary spike of COVID-19 cases in our region and across the country. The organization has been successfully operating under the pandemic for nearly two years, while keeping the safety and well-being of its musicians, staff, and patrons, as top priority. such decisions. The Philharmonic Management and Board will continue to monitor the situation.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Winter Olympics ACROSS 1. Sleeps in a tent 6. Horror movie franchise 9. Varieties 13. Mozart's "Die Zauberflote" 14. Road crew supply 15. Moron 16. Workman's cotton, once 17. Exclamation of surprise 18. Monte Cristo's title, in French 19. *Olympic Athletes from ____, 2018 hockey winners 21. *Figure skating jump (2 words) 23. Capone's ilk, e.g. 24. Attention-getting sound 25. Eminem's genre 28. Cashier's call 30. Hit-or-miss 35. It will 37. *Triple one in figure skating 39. Hustle and bustle 40. German Mrs. 41. A mile racer 43. a.k.a. horse mackerel 44. Jargon 46. Workbench holding device 47. Health club offering 48. Diner, e.g. 50. Latin for "and others" 52. ____ Aviv 53. Ill-mannered one 55. Curiosity's victim? 57. *2022 Winter Olympics location 61. *Torch Relay starting point 64. "____ ____ the Family" TV series 65. Refrigerator sound 67. Poppy seed derivative 69. Bitterly regretting 70. Egyptian cobra 71. Part of a stair 72. Seedy source of Omega-3s 73. More, in Madrid 74. Changes to a manuscript

DOWN 1. Cape ____,

MA 2. Copycat 3. Carte du jour 4. Spectrum maker 5. Delilah's lover 6. Roofed colonnade 7. Expression of satisfaction 8. Angry 9. Revered one 10. Fancy ride 11. Japanese zither 12. Pas in ballet 15. "Freezing" Marvel character 20. Letter-shaped girder 22. "____ the land of the free..." 24. Designer's studio 25. *Biathlon gear 26. Skylit lobbies 27. Manufacturing site 29. *2022 Winter Olympics number 31. Like Curious George 32. Monocot's alternative 33. "Killers of the Flower

Moon" Oklahoma location 34. *Olympic award 36. *Olympic sled 38. For fear that 42. Respond 45. Circling 49. Far, old-fashioned 51. Capital of Punjab 54. Early Irish alphabet 56. Sort of warm 57. Vomit 58. Twelfth month of Jewish year 59. Pelvic bones 60. Put a hex on 61. Concert units 62. Not yet final 63. Edible fat 66. *Miracle on Ice winner 68. Not Miss or Ms.

Answers on Page 19


Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 15

Tech Center gave teen stroke victim a new life Garrett Hall suffered a stroke when he was 16 years old. The Cushing High School student, who had been active in football, wrestling, track, band and FFA, was suddenly faced with building a future much different than the one he and his parents had envisioned. Both of Hall’s parents were graduates of Meridian Technology Center, and his mother had worked in the CareerTech System since Hall was in elementary school. It was her CareerTech connections (and his father’s advice) that helped him create a new and improved plan for his future. “My father would always tell me to get into a trade everyone needed, so I would never be out of work and I’d always be able to provide for a family,” Hall said. His mother introduced him to Robert Neil, electrical trades instructor at Central Technology Center (In Drumright). After a conversation about the program and the wide range of career opportunities in elec-

trical trades, Hall enrolled. He attended Central Tech his junior and senior years of high school and added SkillsUSA to his list of extracurricular activities. With Neil as his mentor, Hall developed a new skillset. Through FFA and SkillsUSA, he improved his communication skills and learned how to work as part of a team, skills he would use throughout his life. “My teamwork skills taught me that certain people might be better suited for other tasks, and I should let them take the lead on those parts rather than taking on the whole project myself,” he said. In FFA, Hall competed at the state and national level on ag science, electrical shop and skeet shooting teams. His teams won several state medals, and he and another student even teamed up to earn a gold medal at the national FFA competition. He also competed at the state SkillsUSA contest. Neil taught him basic electrical

Part of the art available to see during the Paseo Gallery Walk scheduled for Feb. 4.

Paseo Gallery Walk is set for Feb. 4

Each First Friday of the month, the community is invited to stroll the historic Paseo Arts District. All of the Paseo galleries are open, some with abbreviated hours, and most will be open late for First Friday. Restaurants will be open for dining in, patio seating and takeout. All guests are encouraged to wear a mask indoors, practice social distancing and use provided hand sanitizer when shopping. First Friday is Feb. 4, 6 to 9 pm.. This month, the Paseo Arts and Creativity Center (PACC) is pleased to feature two exhibitions. Gallery I will feature Poetic City, a high energy and inclusive performance arts entity that supports all forms of creative expression. As their second exhibition at the PACC, this year they introduce “Perception” a show that represents how artists see the world today from technology, health, spirituality, human engagement, social awareness, education and much more. Poetic City’s goal is to recognize that love and ambition come in all shapes and sizes, they work to coordinate and promote professional platforms for those seeking a creative outlet for their passion. Gallery II displays the PAA’s Annual Members’ Show showcasing the best art works in all visual mediums created by our supportive members. This year’s juror is Nicole Moan, an active artist with over 20 years of experience in wearable ceramic, three-dimensional wall sculptures and mixed media work. She seeks to show the world how we are all connected and have unique beauty through art. Moan will present awards at the opening reception during First Friday at 7pm. Both exhibits in the PACC will run through February 26, 2022. Oklahoma City’s Unique Arts Destination, the Paseo Arts District is located between NW 27th & 30th Streets and Walker & Hudson. Each First Friday, Paseo galleries offer special themed exhibits, guest artists and a variety of live entertainment - all within walking distance. 10 restaurants and a handful of other shops round out the Paseo’s distinctive atmosphere. For more information, call the Paseo Arts Association at (405) 525-2688 or

safety, and Hall received OSHA 30 certification. He also spent much of his class time learning how to troubleshoot and solve problems. “I learned to break down the issue and find out what is causing the problem so I can fix it,” he said. “This skill has helped me tremendously.” The Cushing teenager has made the most of a tragic situation. In 2010, he was named Central Tech Student of the Year, and after high school, he earned his associate degree from Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, graduating magna cum laude. Hall worked as a heavy commercial/industrial electrician in Texas until, once again, his mentor changed the trajectory of his life. Neil recruited Hall to teach in the electrical controls program at Tulsa Technology Center. In addition to teaching, Hall is working on a bachelor’s degree at OSU-IT and plans to follow that with a master’s degree, ultimately moving into an administrative position.

Garrett Hall was a normal, active teen when a stroke nearly derailed his life. Help from Central Tech Center in Drumright gave him direction and a career.


Page 16 • January 20, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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$399,900

Looking fo or a turn-key hom me for the holidays? y This is it! 4 beds, 3.5 baths, study,, large bonus room o upstairs, 3 car garage with storm shelter - all in this freshly painted home! So much has recently been replaced - interior and exterior pain nt, Class IV roof and decking (2021), shades, chandeliers, all downstairs windows, sprinkler system, surveillance system - and so much morre!

W WILL OWWOOD

SO OLD! 3309 Clock To ower

$150,000

416 Belm mont

$380,000

HAPPY NEWYEAR! Start 2022 in this fabulous bungalo ow in sought after Town Square! So much greatness e packeed into this super stylish h home - new neutral paint, super bright kitchen with stainless appliances, largee basin sink and granite GSYRXIVXXSTW HSYFPI *VIRGL HSSVW PIEHMRK MRXS SJJ½GI FYMPX MR GEFMRIXV] MR IRXV][E]] [SSH ERH XMPI ¾SSVW WTIGXEGYPEV PMKLX ½\XYVIW XLVSYKLSYX ERH E PEVKI covered e front o por p cch with swingg to ggreet e yo our gguests!

BIG THINGS COME IN SMA ALL PACKA AC GES!! G This cute, low-maintenance 3 bedroom, o 2 bath home will heelp you o startt the NewYear e off right! Greeat neutral GSPSVW MRWMHI ERH SYX I\XXIVMSV MW ZMR]P WMHMRK PEQMREXXIH [SSH ¾SSVW ERH PSXXW SJ natural light coming thro ough the t windows! w Aw weesome stainless steel appliances and sink in the kitchen with so olid surface countertops! t All of this - and a yard that will be a breeze e to keep e p up! p

PHOTO PROVIDED

Billye Putnam, Gamma Zeta member, presents program on The Kindness Legacy Danny Thomas left us.

Maxim mize Y Yo our Mo oney

CALL THE BRAD B RE EESER TEAM TODA AY Y! NEW LIS STINGS ACCEPTED! C CALL US AT

3 330-2626 6 HUNTERS CREEK K

FAIIRWAY FA RW WA AY ESTA TA AT TES

SOLD D!

SO OLD!

3901 Hunters Creek

TA A AVE V $589,900 2201 AUGUST

$399,900

SOLD PRICE $5 590,000

SOLD PRICE P $420,000

BELLE POINTE

SKY YLAR’S COURT

SOLD D!

SO OLD!

2710 Dupont

SOLD PRICE $715,390 OFFICE FOR LEASE

OKC

2553 S Kelly Ave # 100 - $6,000/Mo Commercial Trriple Net Lease 3 year minimum. Built & parXMEPP] JYVRMWLIH JSV 1IHMGEPP SJ½GI WTEGI [MXL I\EQ GLEMMVW [EMXMRK VSSQ JYVRMXYVI 3J½GI MRGPYHIW I\EQ VSSQW [EMXMRK VSSQ (SGXSVW SJ½GI FEXLVSSQW HSGXSVW IQployees, & patients), nursing station, kitchenette tt ,overhead radio d system t by SSonos ready d for activation.

3213 NW W 35TH - $224,900 Make this your DIY home project for an EXTREME MAKEO KEOVER! R! G Greatt style t l good d bones, b desirable neighborhood,AND ND D just j t replaced l d the h roof (Dec. 2021)! Floor plan Fl l d designed i d with ith llarge liliving i area off kitchen, ½VITPEGI [ KEW FIHVSSQW HS[R YT [MMXL FYMPX in desks), 3 bathroom ms, ample storage throughout.

SOLD PRICE P $225,000 LARGE CORNER LOT

2.85 ACRES!

- 3800 Wolf o Creek Cir -

4260 N Boulevard- $399,900

Large corner lot (1.18 acre) in the desirable Auggusta Farms Approximately 2.85 Acres at the NW corner of neighborhood! Bring your own builder and build d the home of Coffee Creek and Broadway, just north of the water your dreams in this fabulous neighborhood! Witth easy access to tower. Property zoned F1, Light Industrial. Don’t miss I35 get anywhere in Edmond and the OKC metrro quickly!

this opportunity! t

BUILD YO OUR DREAM HOME!

3001 Lakeshire Ridge Way - $135,000

Bring your ow wner builder and build the house of your o dreeams on this fabulous lot.

TIMBERDALE

SEL LL YOUR HOM ME W WITH BRAD!

RUSTIC CREEK

SOLD!

2300 Rustic Creek - $350,000 Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the fabulous backyard on the wood deck - so peaceful! Home backs up to 6.8 acres of gorgeous trees. HOA takes care of the front yard - mows, edges, weeds, trims, and fer e ttilizes - No yard work required!

$215,000

TH ST $695,000 2421 NW 194T

SOLD! 506 SUNNY BROOK - $399,900

SOLD PRICE $411,000 $411 000 IRON HORSE RANCH

NEW W LISTING NG GS ACCEPTE ED! C CALL US U S AT

330-2626

SOLD! 4108 High Range Ln- $ $525,000

SOLD PRICE $525,000

L TS & ACREAGES LO 3100 Basanova Drive - $85,000 - Oldee Edmond Lot Great neighborhood in Edmond. Build your drream home here!

3208 Basanova Drrive - $118,900 - Olde Edmond - East Edmond - Cul-de-sac lot!

3000 Basanova Drive - $122,500 - Old de Edmond • East Edmond - Cul-de-sac lot

4260 N Boulevard 2.85 - Acres! $399,900 Approximately 2.85 Accres at the NW corner of Coffeee Creek and Broadway, y, just norrth of the water tower. Property zoned F1, Light Industrial. Don’t miss m this opportunity!

3016 Basanova Drive - $99,900 - Olde Edmond Lot • Great Location - Build your dream home! 1624 Saratoga Way - $249,900 - Saratog a a Farms • Approx. .7274 acre

Property to Sell? • Accepting New Listings • CALL US! WE SELL homes, ranch hes, acreages and developments.

Danny Thomas’s legacy continues

ESA remembers kindness & love of St. Jude’s founder Kindness is this year’s topic for educationals in Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Gamma Zeta chapter, and Monday night’s topic of Danny Thomas’ The Kindness Legacy was exceptional. In 1972 ESA adopted St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as its international philanthropic project. Danny Thomas once said, “Success in life has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It is what you do for others.” He has truly inspired so many people! In Oklahoma, Jay Cobb who is now a 49-year old civil engineer faced Burkitt Lymphoma, a form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, when he was 9 years old and was treated at St. Jude. He and fellow volunteers recently erected — in a 24 hour marathon — an amazing treehouse for a recent medulloblastoma patient at St. Jude named Nate. Danny’s kindness lives on through Jay Cobb. Sarah Ford, a St. Jude cancer survivor, lives in Detroit and is married to Calvin Ford, the greatgreat grandson of Henry Ford. They donated a limited edition 2021 Ford Bronco to St Jude for auction, which raised $155,000. Danny’s kindness lives on through Sarah and Calvin Ford. Derek Fordjour, a New York artist, grew up near St. Jude in Memphis. He donated one of his popular pieces of art entitled Rhythm and Blues to St. Jude for auction. His effort raised $410,000 for the hospital. Danny’s kindness lives on through Derek Fordjour. Thatcher, a 4 year old St. Jude patient from Missouri, has neuroblatoma, a rare type of cancerous tumor. His school friends did not understand his condition so family friends wrote a comic book entitled “Super Thatcher Fights Can-

cer!” to explain the disease. Many children can now relate to Thatcher through this fun comic book. Danny’s kindness lives on through “Super Thatcher Fights Cancer!” Hollis Belger from Larkspur, California was 9 years old when she started juggling a soccer ball to raise money for St. Jude. Her efforts over the last 7 years have raised more than $530,000 for the hospital. Her idea has grown into a global, soccer juggling campaign called Juggling for Jude. Hollis, now 17, is a public speaker who encourages other kids and teens to find ways to engage with purpose in causes they want to support. Danny’s kindness lives on through Hollis Belger. Young Jax Sealy from Arapho, Okla. raised $100 in one year through creative means. He started Every Penny Counts and in eight years, he has raised over $53,000 for St. Jude. He says he will never quit. The kindness of Danny lives on through Jax Sealey. Haley Arceneaux was 10 when diagnosed with osteosarcoma and became a patient at St. Jude. Recently Haley made history as a part of Inspiration 4, the world’s first all-civilian crew which blasted into orbit. This endeavor not only raised millions for St Jude but raised awareness for the hospital which saved her from pediatric cancer and where she found her dream job as a physician assistant. Danny’s legacy lives on. These stories and hundreds more attest to the living legacy of kindness Danny Thomas left us. Years ago when he said, “Success in life has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It is what you do for others,” he had no idea how far-reaching his kindness legacy would reach.


Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 17

Citizens Bank leader named FEMA rating may mean to Federal Advisory Council lower insurance rates Citizens Bank of Edmond is proud to announce the appointment of president and chief executive officer, Jill Castilla, as the Kansas City Fed’s representative to the Federal Advisory Council for 2022. The Federal Advisory Council is established by the Federal Reserve Act and includes one representative from each Federal Reserve’s 12 Districts. Members meet four times per year in Washington, D.C. to consult with and advise the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve on all matters under the Board’s jurisdiction. Jill Castilla started her banking career nearly 25 years ago as an analyst in the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s Management Development Program. “The foundation of everything I know about leadership, management, ethics, and professional courage I learned in almost a decade there,” said Castilla. “I’m honored to return to service at the Fed as the Tenth District’s representative on the Federal Advisory Council.” About the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City As the regional headquarters of the nation’s central bank, the Kansas

Jill Castilla City Fed and its branch offices in Denver, Oklahoma City and Omaha serve the seven states of the Tenth District: Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Wyoming, northern New Mexico and western Missouri.

Francis Tuttle official to be part of international economic panel technical colleges, and higher The International Ecoeducation-focused intermedinomic Development Council aries. This committee encour(IEDC) has announced the ages building the capacity of roster of Economic Developeconomic developers and ment leaders that will serve higher education to work colon the organization’s Higher laboratively to grow jobs, inEducation Advisory Commitvestment, and talent in a tee in 2022. Cody Mosley, knowledge-based economy. CEcD, Director, Workforce & “I'm honored to serve the InEconomic Development, FranMosley ternational Economic Developcis Tuttle Technology Center ment Council as Chair of the Higher (OK), will serve as Chair on Education Advisory Committee,” the Higher Education Advisory Comsaid Mosley. “As Oklahoma City premittee. pares to host the IEDC Annual Con"We look forward to the service that this exceptional selection of pro- ference in 2022, I am excited to highlight the progress of our commufessionals will bring in 2022,” said nity, this committee, and our Francis 2022 IEDC Board Chair and PresiTuttle partners.” dent and Executive Director of Work Cody Mosley joined Francis Tuttle Rise, Urban Institute Todd Greene, CEcD, “I cannot wait to see what we Technology Center as the Director of Workforce and Economic Developwill accomplish together going forment in July 2019. In 2021, he obward.” tained the Certified Economic The IEDC Higher Education AdviDeveloper credential from the Intersory Committee provides advice and guidance to the External Member Re- national Economic Development Council. Mosley also serves as Colations committee and the IEDC Chair of the Greater Oklahoma City Board of Directors to better enable Chamber’s Economic Development IEDC to foster broader engagement Partnership and Membership Chair between economic developers and for Select Oklahoma, Oklahoma’s asthe higher education sector, including; universities, community colleges, sociation for economic developers.

First Fidelity announces additions First Fidelity Bank, a full-service community bank, has announced the addition of Brad Willis as Vice President, Business Development Officer in the Oklahoma City and Edmond markets. Willis comes to First Fidelity Bank, most recently, from the insurance industry. He has over 35 years of experience building valuable relationships with community partners, business leadWillis ers, associations, and individuals. His referral-based strategy will be an important asset to the bank. Willis is a graduate of Pittsburg State University where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration – Finance degree. He is active in the community and is currently a Board of Advisor member of the Greater

OKC Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Edmond Chamber. Also Kenneth Miles has been named as Vice President and Director of Information Technology. Miles brings with him 15 years of experience in the information technology field and was previously employed by MidFirst Bank. He is a graduate of Southeastern Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in Miles Computer Information Systems and holds many relevant certifications. Miles is actively involved with Positive Tomorrows, Oklahoma’s only private, tuition-free school for children experiencing homelessness. He helps provide birthday parties, holiday parties, and other activities for the kids who attend the school.

City earns improvement in FEMA’s Community Rating System for floodplain management Edmond residents may be able to save additional money on their flood insurance after the City of Edmond recently improved its rating through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) program for floodplain management. Edmond’s rating improved one level in FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS), which is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The result of a lengthy re-verification process – and the diligent efforts of the Edmond Drainage Utility – the City rating improved to a 6, which enables residents to receive a 20 percent discount for NFIP-backed homeowner’s flood insurance if a structure

is within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), and a 10 percent discount for structures located outside the SFHA – a 5 percent increase on both discounts. The new rating began Oct. 1, 2021, and the benefits remain in effect as long as the City maintains the Class 6 level. Across the nation, more than 1,500 communities participate in the CRS. Thanks to the City’s continuing commitment to floodplain preservation, upholding higher development standards and public education of the beneficial uses of the floodplain, Edmond earned the third highest rating among 12 CRS communities in Oklahoma. To find out how the new ratings might impact your insurance rates, please contact your flood insurance provider. Residents with insurance questions can also contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 405216-7300.

Martha Stewart coming to state Martha Stewart, founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, creator of Martha Stewart Living Magazine, Emmy Award-winning television show host, entrepreneur and best-selling author, will be speaking at the Executive Management Briefings in Oklahoma City and the Tulsa Business Forums on April 6. “A Conversation with Martha Stewart '' will be held at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center 9:30-11 a.m. and the National Cowboy and West-

ern Heritage Museum 4 - 5:30 p.m. where she will sit down with Dr. Ken Eastman to discuss everything from entertaining to entrepreneurship. “We are very excited to welcome Ms. Stewart as our speaker,” said Eastman, dean of the Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University. “She is well known for her many interests and business ventures, and I know that people will enjoy lis-

See Stewart, Page 18


Page 18 • January 20, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Stewart From Page 17 tening to her. She is an icon of food, entertaining and style and we are honored to have her with us.” As America’s most trusted lifestyle expert and teacher, Stewart reaches 66 million consumers across all media platforms each month and has a growing retail presence with 8,500 products. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, which she started in 1996 provides television entertainment, award-winning magazines, best-selling books and more. In 2017, she was named one of Forbes “100 Greatest Living Business Minds.” She also founded the Martha Stewart Center for Living at Mount Sinai Medical Center in 2007. Masks are expected at all times regardless of vaccination status while attending the event, except when eating or drinking in designated areas. Social distancing is also recommended. The Tulsa Business Forums and Executive Management Briefings speaker series is coordinated by OSU’s Center for Executive and Professional Development. The program

Family Circus

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Martha Stewart brings in distinguished business leaders, authors and policymakers to speak to the Tulsa and Oklahoma City business community. Registration is $75 per person with livestream registration also available at the same price. Full sponsorship opportunities with special events with the speaker are also available. To register, learn about sponsorship opportunities or for more information on the Executive Management Briefings and Tulsa Business Forum visit https://business.okstate.edu/cepd/pr ograms/business_speaker_series/inde x.html.


Edmond Life & Leisure • January 20, 2022 • Page 19

Lyric again helps out Regional Food Bank The Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma raised $14,039 for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma during its annual production of "A Christmas Carol." Since 2011, Lyric Theatre audiences have contributed more than $208,800 to help fight hunger in central and western Oklahoma. The production was held outdoors at historic Harn Homestead for the second year. Harn Homestead was reimagined into a holiday village with audience members walking from scene to scene during the 75-minute production. Following each show, cast members gathered donations for the Regional Food Bank. "We are always honored to be a part of this metro holiday tradition and each year are astonished by the hard work and generosity of Lyric Theatre and its patrons," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. "The support we receive has made a tremendous impact on our neighbors in need of food assistance." Over the last decade, the production has helped the Regional Food Bank provide the equivalent of 835,200 meals. "Each year our generous patrons have taken the message of Lyric's ‘A Christmas Carol’ to heart and have enhanced the lives of Oklahomans in need of food throughout the year. We want to thank them for their donations after each performance. It has and continues to make a difference to so many lives,” said Michael Baron, producing artistic director at Lyric Theatre. “We are also thankful for the work that the Regional Food Bank continues to do for the health and well-being of our community, espe-

cially during this challenging time." Lyric Theatre has announced its 2022 schedule. Visit lyrictheatreok.com for more information and to purchase tickets. Learn more about the fight against hunger in central and western Oklahoma by visiting rfbo.org. About the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is leading the fight against hunger in 53 counties in central and western Oklahoma and envisions a state where no one goes hungry. Founded in

1980, the Regional Food Bank is the state’s largest domestic hunger-relief 501(c)(3) nonprofit that distributes food through a network of community- based partner agencies and schools. The majority of people served by the Regional Food Bank are chronically hungry children, seniors living on fixed incomes and hardworking families struggling to make ends meet. The Regional Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s network of food banks. To join the fight to end hunger, visit rfbo.org.

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