Edmond Life and Leisure - February 23, 2023

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.

The Super Bowl ad with An Edmond connection

For fans of rapper Jack Harlow, Super Bowl LVII a few weeks ago was all about the triangle. For former Oklahoman Corey Martin, the Super Bowl was all about the dress. And most people may not realize it, but there was an Edmond connection to one of the multi-million dollar ads. (A 30-second ad cost about $7 million)

During a 90-second Doritos commercial, Harlow plays the triangle, and suddenly the primitive musical instrument becomes the hottest thing on the planet. One scene in the commercial shows a runway model walking a poodle, his head groomed in the shape of a triangle. That unique dress was designed by Martin who studied at UCO at one time.

The model’s unique high-low gown is covered in heavy metal triangles, with a striking white hat decorated with matching silver triangles. The dress was designed by

Trayce Field and created by Corey Martin, an Oklahoma City area native and alum of the Future Homemakers of America.

In a recent interview for Oklahoma CareerTech, Martin said he learned to sew in his family and consumer sciences class at Okeene High School. Today, he is a custom tailor for Motion Picture Costumers IATSE Local 75 and credits his FCS instructor with teaching him many skills that have contributed to his success.

“In FCS I developed as a leader and a communicator,” he said. “These skills have become very valuable in my adult life, both professionally and personally.”

Martin said the FCS co-curricular student organization, then called Future Homemakers of America, taught him basic life skills such as how to set up a budget and balance a checkbook. FHA (now called Family, Career and Community

Leaders of America) gave Martin the confidence to lead his colleagues on team projects.

“I often serve as a leader in whatever costume shop or production I am working on,” he said. “If I had not developed my sewing skills and the leadership qualities I learned in FHA, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

And where is he? Martin lives in Burbank, California. He said the most valuable lesson he learned in FCS and FHA was to appreciate people. In the theater industry, he said, it’s important to have a network of peers and friends, which Martin has built over the past several years.

After graduating from Fort Cobb-Broxton High School, Martin majored in musical theater and costume design at the University of Central Oklahoma. In addition to creating costumes, he is also a writer and plans to create a movie or television series.

PHOTO PROVIDED

DAR helps to clean historic area cemetery

By: Tammy Ross

In honor of February as “Black History Month,” the Cordelia Steen Chapter, NSDAR, of Edmond conducted a Preservation Project at the historic Gower Memorial Cemetery located on Covell Road between Post Road and Douglas Blvd. in Edmond. On Sunday afternoon, February 12, 2023, members of the Chapter donned their gloves and with the proper brushes and cleaning solutions in hand commenced to cleaning the headstones of those buried in the cemetery to help preserve them for future generations.

The historic Gower Memorial Cemetery was established in 1889 by John and Ophelia Gower, who were formally enslaved, for the sole pur-

pose of being a burial site for black settlers, and later, for the African American community that lived in the nearby areas.

In 1991, the Cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic Places. T

he Cordelia Steen Chapter is honored to serve in helping preserve this wonderful historical landmark.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is a volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting Patriotism, Education, and Historic Preservation.

For information on go to the Cordelia Steen Chapter Website at: https://cordeliasteennsdar.weebly.c om/

Bill would help state inmates

Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany, is pushing for driver licenses to be restored for certain inmates preparing to leave incarceration.

Stark is the author of House Bill 1566, which directs the Oklahoma Dept. of Corrections (DOC) to provide inmates with state-issued IDs, REAL ID compliant IDs, or REAL ID compliant driver licenses upon their release.

"We've made tremendous progress in lowering our recidivism rate, but to keep that momentum going, we must equip people who've paid their debt to society with every possible tool to succeed upon reentry," Stark said. "Whether through a legislative solution or another avenue, providing

qualifying inmates with a REAL ID compliant license is a necessary step to help people who have served their time move on with their lives."

Stark said the bill is part of the Restorative Workforce Initiative, a collection of bills passed in recent years that work together to address both recidivism and the employment gap by empowering individuals to find employment both before and immediately after leaving incarceration.

Stark is one of three Republican legislators supporting the Restorative Workforce Initiative. She is joined in the effort by Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, and Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond.

On the front row are Jan Beattie, Rosemary Eskridge and Karen Mosely. On the bak are Andrea Aven, Heather Schafstall, Antoinette Carson and Mary Poulain.

Chapter regent Tammy Ross and vice regent Mary Poulain.

Obscure facts on presidents

My column last week titled “Out kicked my punt coverage” must have hit home with many husbands in town. I have received text messages, emails and even phone calls about how they can relate to my description of my bride. It was heart warming to hear from so many husbands who think so highly of their wives.

Which president enjoyed skinny-dipping? Which one befriended his burglar while in office? Presidents are people too, and they have been wild, wonderful, and plain weird. Readers Digest offered up some of these facts in honor of Presidents Day this week.

Abraham Lincoln turned down the chance to host elephants

In 1861, the King of Siam offered to gift President Lincoln “several pairs of young male and female elephants,” which were indigenous to his country (today we know it as Thailand). The elephants could be bred to multiply, the king suggested, and the herds could be used as “beasts of burden” that could work alongside the military during the Civil War. The president politely declined the offer, opting to use steam power instead of animal labor.

Gerald Ford modeled on the cover of Cosmopolitan magazine

Before he became our nation’s 38th president, Gerald Ford had a side gig as a model. In 1942, shortly after joining the Navy, he landed an uncredited spot on the cover of Cosmopolitan in his uniform. Another fun fact? It was during this time that he met and went on to marry a fellow model, Elizabeth Bloomer. She became known to Americans as First Lady Betty Ford.

John Quincy Adams approved a real-life journey to the center of the Earth

Back in the 1800s, little was known about our planet. In the absence of scientific evidence, some people believed in some kooky theories—like the idea that planet Earth is hollow. Our sixth president, John Quincy Adams, was on board with this one. The commander-in-chief even signed off on a proposed expedition by a fellow Hollow Earther and would-be explorer to the Earth’s “empty” core. But when Andrew Jackson was voted into office four years later, he put the kibosh on the journey that never was.

William Howard Taft took a custom bathtub on a trip to Panama

The legend goes that our 27th president once got stuck in a bathtub and had to be pulled out by six men. Although President William Taft did weigh 340 pounds at his heaviest, this story is wholly false. But it probably stemmed from Taft’s (very true) affinity for baths. In fact, he ordered a 7-foot-long tub that weighed a literal ton to be built and placed aboard the USS North Carolina, so he could luxuriate in it on his way to Panama.

Herbert Hoover’s White House staff hid from him

In a very diva (or perhaps just racist) move, 31st president Herbert Hoover insisted that his staff never see him around the White House—and he didn’t want to see them either. This caused quite the charade, of course, as the staff felt pressured to hide from the president whenever he was present. According to White House journalist Kenneth Walsh, staffers would “pile into closets” and “hide behind bushes so the president couldn’t see them.”

Lyndon B. Johnson proposed to Lady Bird with a $2.50 ring from Sears

In 1934, Lyndon B. Johnson, then 26, proposed to Claudia Alta “Ladybird” Taylor, 22, on their first date. Though she declined his offer, Johnson continued to woo her from afar, sending his sweetheart 90 letters in the span of about 90 days. Impatient, Johnson traveled from Washington, D.C. to Texas to arrive at her door with an ultimatum—marry me now or forever hold your peace. She accepted his proposal and the $2.50 engagement ring that came with it.

John Quincy Adams loved to skinny-dip

While in office, sixth president John Quincy Adams often swam in the Potomac River, and he preferred to do so in the buff. Adams was an early riser, and in his diaries, he wrote of waking at about 4 a.m. and taking a morning dip—nude. Though it sounds risqué now, skinny-dipping was apparently common in those day.

Theodore Roosevelt officially gave the White House its name

Though the residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is painted white, it was known as The Executive Mansion and The President’s Palace until October 1901, when then-president Theodore Roosevelt referred to it as The White House. The 26th president made the moniker official when he had it engraved on his stationery.

Warren Harding lost the White House china in a poker game

Warren Harding, our 29th president, loved a game of poker—and apparently, he was a high roller. During one of his bi-weekly poker games, Harding gambled away a set of china that had been in the White House since President Benjamin Harrison’s tenure six terms prior. He bet it all on one ill-advised hand.

Thomas Jefferson kept pet grizzly bears

During his tenure as our third president, Thomas Jefferson became the happy recipient of a wild gift: a pair of grizzly bear cubs. He kept them in a cage on the front lawn of the White House for a few months before deciding they were too dangerous to keep and bequeathing them to a museum.

Ulysses S. Grant was arrested for speeding—on a horse

A noted equestrian, our 18th president was quite confident on a horse—perhaps too confident. While driving his horse and buggy at a furious pace during his presidential tenure, Grant was pulled over twice within the span of 24 hours. The second time, one bold police officer decided to arrest the commander-in-chief, who was ultimately given a fine. Legend has it that the officer and the president eventually became friends.

The first White House bowling alley was a birthday present for Harry Truman

In 1947, 33rd President Harry Truman became responsible for having a bowling alley installed in the West Wing in celebration of his 63rd birthday. He became the first person to ever throw a bowling ball down the White House lane, and one of the seven pins he knocked down is on display at the Smithsonian Institution.

Bill Clinton is a My Little Pony Expert

During a segment on the NPR show “Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me!,” 42nd President Bill Clinton was quizzed about the animated movie My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. To the amazement of his hosts, he nailed all three questions and won a prize on behalf of the listener for whom he was playing.

Clint Eastwood was almost Vice President under George H.W. Bush

While running for office in 1988, then-presidential nominee George Bush was not feeling lucky, so he considered bringing on the “Dirty Harry” actor to help breathe life into his struggling campaign. Clint Eastwood had been mayor of Carmel, California, but Bush famously chose Dan Quayle as his running mate instead.

James Garfield could write in Greek with one hand and Latin with the other

The ambidextrous James Garfield could write in two languages simultaneously: Latin and Greek. He taught both languages while attending the acclaimed Williams College in Massachusetts, where he was later named president before going on to be elected as the 20th president of the United States.

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

“Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.

Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011.

Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable.

For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.

Ray Hibbard

Shelby Hudson scholarships awarded at Edmond Memorial

Robert Dunham and Jordan Ferguson, of Edmond Memorial High School, Class of 2023, recently received the Shelby Hudson Football Memorial Scholarship on recently during their annual football banquet.

The $4,000 tuition-based scholarship each will be paid to the college or postsecondary studies of the recipient's choice.

The scholarship was established on 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 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 make this scholarship available to these two outstanding young men. Both Robert and Jordan have shown tremendous perseverance as they both had torn their ACL during their football careers. With their hard work and commitment to overcome these setbacks, they have proven that they will be successful in

A $1 million prize for Lawton resident in Oklahoma Lottery

A Lawton resident, Adriane, claimed her $1,000,000 winning Scratcher last week at the Oklahoma Lottery Winner Center. This top prize makes Adriane the Oklahoma Lottery’s 78th millionaire. The winning Grand Fortune ticket was purchased at EZ GO #36 in Lawton.

This winner is the first top prize winner for Grand Fortune. This Scratcher from the Oklahoma Lottery features two more $1 million top prizes. To find a retailer, visit lottery.ok.gov.

About the Oklahoma Lottery

Last fiscal year, the Oklahoma Lottery paid out more than $213 million in prizes to players, helping to drive both the local and state economy and bolster retail revenue throughout Oklahoma.

Since its launch, the Lottery has generated more than $1.19 billion in funds that have been given to the Oklahoma Education Lottery Trust Fund. As sales continue to grow, the Oklahoma Lottery is able to increase the contributions that benefit students and teachers across the State of Oklahoma.

Engagement, Wedding notices

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

life," Davis and Lisa Hudson said. Upon graduating from EMHS this spring, Robert plans to attend Oklahoma State University and major in business marketing, while Jordan hopes to attend West Texas A&M to continue his football career and study in the field of physical therapy and sports medicine.

Shelby, a student at the University of Oklahoma at the time, 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 morale activity.

Since the inception of this tuitionbased scholarship, 33 recipients have been awarded $107,000.00.

States where recipients have attended college besides Oklahoma are Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York and Texas.

The Edmond Public Schools Foundation administers the scholarship. The tax-deductible donations for the fund may be sent to P.O. Box 30837, Edmond, Oklahoma 73003 and earmarked for the Shelby Hudson Scholarship. For questions contact Deanna Boston, Chief Executive Officer of the foundation at 405-340-2819.

House Democrats not in favor of funding state’s private schools

House Democratic Caucus Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City said house democrats will continue to vote against any plan that would redirect public funding to private schools.

“HB 1935 is a $250 million dollar proposal to fund private schools,” Rep. Munson said.

HB 1935 passed the House A&B committee today.

"Oklahoma still ranks at the bottom of the region in per-pupil funding and Oklahoma teachers are some of the lowest paid teachers in the nation," Rep. Munson said.

House democrats said accountability and financial oversight have been major

concerns with education funding.

Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa said that the bill does not provide any accountability.

“We don’t want another Epic. We don’t want another Class Wallet. We don’t want the funds to be spent on Christmas trees and video games,” she said.

Provenzano also added that the proposal will create long-term inequities.

“We are creating two systems: Public schools who take every student and private schools who take the students they choose. It is unethical and inequitable.”

Picture from left, are Jordan Ferguson, Coach Logan Thomas and Robert Dunham.

(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.)

Feb. 6

Clinton Lee Miller, 36 homeless. Take or receive credit or debit card, possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and burglary in the second degree.

Elizabeth Ann Hungerford, 34 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Cedric Donta Murphy, 30 of Edmond. Transporting open container alcoholic beverage, expired tag over three months, driving while privilege is canceled suspended, denied or revoked.

Feb. 7

Jonathan Paul Clewis, 23 of Oklahoma City. Disorderly conduct.

Syeda Masooma, Abedi, 42 homeless. Burglary/theft from a motor vehicle.

Kcorb Evol Lewis, 50 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence or alcohol or drugs, plan/attempt/conspire to perform act of violence, use firearm while committing a felony, operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and assault and battery/ battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff.

Feb. 8

Kristopher Wade Mackey, 46 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Arlen Victor Speakman, 35 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag, over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Feb. 9

Jamie Lynn Stovall, 27 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia, false representation to an officer and a felony warrant.

Jordan Brandon Abshier, 36 homeless. Possession of marijuana, misdemeanor warrant and false representation to an officer.

Matthew A. Bear, 31 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Austin Allen Potter, 26 of Jones. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Tom U Ime Ibanga, 47 of Edmond. Expired tag one to three months, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and no proof of insurance.

Laci Nacole Traywick, 41 of Edmond. Petty larceny.

Michelle Lynn Allen, 44 of Guthrie. Misdemeanor warrant.

Colin Lane Crosby, 36 of Oklahoma City. Driving without proper/valid driver’s license, no proof of insurance, petty larceny and possession of marijuana.

Yan-Amont Billy Darianssen, 48 homeless. Thirteen counts of failure to appear.

Jacob Dangleo Thomas, 30 of Killeen, Texas. Petty larceny.

Brantly Gray Elmore, 30 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, failure to appear, expired tag over three months and no proof of insurance.

Jarrett Allen York, 19 of Edmond. Failure to appear and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Feb. 10

Paul Mitchell Moore, 23 of Edmond. Shoplifting and public intoxication.

Calvin Maurice Owens, 42 of Edmond. Public

intoxication, possess drug paraphernalia and obstruction of police officer.

Bruce Lee Roberts III, 37 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Tabitha Marie Price, 36 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

]

Feb. 11

Calvin Maurice Owens, 42 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Kenan Jamel Jackson, 45, of Edmond. Interruption, interference with emergency phone call and domestic abuse assault. (strangulation.)

Marcellus Owens III, 22 of Edmond Violation of protective order.

Colton Stone Jones, 19 of Edmond. Obstruction of police officer, operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level or .15 or more and assault and battery/battery (Felony) on police officer or correctional staff.

Travis Don Horton, 28 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Feb. 12

Amanda Jacquelyn Gainuss, 33 homeless. Public intoxication and non-assault resisting officer.

Richard Lee Wells Jr., 48 of Edmond. Two felony warrants.

Zachary Lewis Hubbard, 21 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Chad Andrew Parsons, 19 of Lindsey. Under 21 operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle or other intoxicating substance.

Brandon Paul Cobb, 25 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Candice Fay Graves, 37 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Amanda Lee Newton, 38 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Weekend calendar, Feb. 23-26

What’s Happening This Weekend

Feb 23-26

---- In the Gallery ---- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit ---- Indoor Winter Market

---- February at the UCO Jazz Lab ---- February Events at Frenzy ---- Live Music at Round Midnight

PRCA Extreme Bull Riding ---- Signature Tour

OKC Philharmonic presents: An Evening with Kelli O’Hara ---- Lyric Theatre presents: Huckleberry Finn’s Big River ---- Taste of OKC ---- Bullnanza

---- Friends of the Metropolitan Library System Annual Book Sale

---- Girls Day Out ---- Red Tail Live presents: Dragons & Mythical Beasts ---- Kicklahoma

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Featuring the art of Brad McNeill; edmondfinearts.com

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

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

Indoor Winter Market

Location: Mitch Park

Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 18; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov

February at the UCO Jazz Lab

Location: UCO Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 24: The Wise Guys; 8 p.m.; $25; Fri, Feb 25: Miss Brown to You; 8 p.m.; $15; Sun, Feb 26: Mountain Smoke; 7 p.m.; $25 ucojazzlab.com

February Events at Frenzy

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 24: Maddox Ross; 8 p.m.; Sat, Feb 25: David McKinney; 7:30 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com

Live Music at Round Midnight

Location: Round Midnight

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 23: Vintage Vinyl; Fri, Feb 24: Claire Piersol Trio; Sat, Feb 25: Noah Engh Trio; 7 – 10 p.m.; $60 ---- $75; simpletix.com

PRCA Extreme Bull Riding

Location: Lazy E Arena

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 24 – Sat, Feb 25; lazye.com

Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Feb 25 – Sun, Feb 26; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

OKC Philharmonic presents: An Evening with Kelli O’Hara

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 24 – Sat, Feb 25; 8 p.m.;

okcphil.org

Lyric Theatre presents: Huckleberry Finn’s Big River

Location: Lyric at the Plaza

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 16 – Sat, Mar 11; lyrictheatreokc.com

Taste of OKC

Location: Oklahoma City Convention Center

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 24; 6:30 p.m.; bbbsok.ejoinme.org

Bullnanaza

Location: Lazy E Arena

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 24 – Sat, Feb 25; 7:30 – 10 p.m.; mccoyrodeo.com

Friends of the Metropolitan Library System Annual Book Sale

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Sat, Feb 25 – Sun, Feb 26; 9 a.m. –5:30 p.m.; supportmls.org

Girls Day Out

Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds

Extra Info: Sat, Feb 25; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; facebook.com

Red Tail Live presents: Dragons & Mythical Beasts

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Sun, Feb 26; 3 p.m.; okcciviccenter.com

Kicklahoma

Location: OKC Farmers Market Building

Extra Info: Sun, Feb 26; 1 ---- 6 p.m.; w38.thekicklahoma.com

Pen and Keyboard Writers group to have readings March 2

Ready for a new literary experience? If you’ve never been to an author reading of a new book, this could be the fun evening you need. The members of Pen and Keyboard Writers in Edmond have created and published a delightful book that compares the seasons of nature to the seasons of human life.

Celebrating the Seasons is a meaningful compilation of poetry and prose.

The poems and short stories that fill the many pages, paint and define the similarities of natural and human seasons.

On Thursday, March 2nd, several of the nine authors will be conducting readings from their submissions, and answering questions about creative writing and publication.

Mark your calendar now and plan to be at the Edmond Public Library, 10 S. Boulevard at 6:30 PM. Admission is free. Books will be available at a discounted price for signing after the readings and the question-and-answer session. If you have already obtained this great book from Amazon, Barnes & Noble or your favorite bookstore, bring your copy along and visit with the authors and collect their autographs.

For additional information about Celebrating the Seasons and the authors, visit the Pen and Keyboard Writers website at: www.penandkeyboard.org

For further information contact: Biruta Harris… ( 405 816 2834 or biruta411@sbcglobal.net)

The eternal beauty, taste of a pizza

By Carol Smaglinski

“Who wants pizza?” Every hand, along with our taste buds, shoots up in anticipation.

Trying to recall your first taste of pizza is somewhat like remembering your first kiss. It was that exciting and in both instances, you longed for more.

Author Charles Pierce wrote “The perfect lover is one who turns into a pizza at 4 a.m.”

With that first bite of pizza, culinary juices start running and a range of flavors are picked up in different parts of the palate and tongue. Taste buds sitting on the tip of the tongue can sense sweet flavors, while sour and salty receptors are on the sides of the tongue.

Pizza came to us through New York with Italian immigrants. At the end of World War II, U.S. soldiers longed for the pizza they had tasted in Italy.

Got some plans for cans? Ditch those and get busy making your own easy pizza from scratch. Proof yeast in water at 110-115 degrees before starting to be sure that it is active.

If you ever mess up (who, me?) and forget the yeast, or the dough does not rise before baking, don’t throw the dough out. Just get some fresh yeast, knead it in with a little warm water and let it rise again. You’ve got a

second chance and don’t advertise your mistakes.

Remember, working with yeast dough is very forgiving. And that rising time? It’s working, not you.

Cooking the onions and peppers in a skillet before they go on the pizza will get the liquid out or else your pizza could be soggy when finished. And, another good idea is saving the cheese topping until about four minutes before the pizza is finished.

Note that the pizza dough is actually a canvas waiting for you to decorate it as the artist and cook in you can. Chefs like to throw and stretch pizza dough into the air because using tools may toughen up the dough. However, that takes skill and lots of practice.

Pizza

Makes 2 small pizzas

For the dough:

1 pkg. fast rising yeast

2 cups flour

½ tsp. salt

1 tsp. honey

2 tsp. 0live oil

In a cup of water heated to 115 degrees, sprinkle yeast and mix. Let it sit until bubbly for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a food

processor, mix the flour, salt, honey and olive oil. Process enough to get a nice tender dough, depending upon the humidity in the air. Add more flour (up to ½ cup) if it is too wet.

Turn dough onto a floured board and knead for a few minutes until the dough springs back.

Grease a bowl, place dough inside and cover with a kitchen towel and let rise for about 45 minutes until doubled.

When ready, heat the oven to 450 degrees.

Divide the dough in half and roll each one out into an 8-inch circle or even a square. Make a rim around the edge with your fingers and paint the rim (future pizza bones) with some oil. Move the dough to a greased cookie sheet or a greased pizza pan, or a pizza stone covered with cornmeal.

Have all the toppings ready: pizza sauce (in a jar), sliced pepperoni, cooked onions and peppers, crushed garlic, mushrooms, olives, shredded Mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Spread the sauce over the dough and finish with the rest of the ingredients.

Turn the pan while cooking for even browning and check the bottom with a spatula. Serve piping hot. Buon Appetito! (Enjoy your meal!)

Violinist to be concert March 28

The Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble welcomes guest violinist YooJin Jang as it presents the fourth concert of its 20th anniversary season on March 28 at First Baptist Church, 1201 N. Robinson, Oklahoma City. The ensemble will perform a pair of demanding trios for violin, cello and piano and a jazz-inspired Sonata for Violin and Piano.

YooJin Jang is Assistant Professor of Violin at the Eastman School of Music. Winner multiple competitions, she has been praised as “a performer without fear or technical limitation” with “fiery virtuosity.” She is has appeared with numerous prestigious orchestras and is also a passionate chamber musician. YooJin is a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music.

“Masterworks Revisited” Program:

Franz Joseph Haydn, Trio for Violin, Cello and Piano in C major, Hob. XV:27

YooJin Jang

Maurice Ravel, Sonata for Violin and Piano, No. 2 in G major

Johannes Brahms, Trio No. 2 for Violin, Cello

and Piano in C major Musicians: YooJin Jang (violin), Jonathan Ruck (cello) and Amy I-Lin Cheng, piano Haydn’s Trio for Violin, Cello and Piano, published in 1797, is one of his most demanding pieces for keyboard. The main theme of the final movement, wrote music critic James Keller, “hops from register to register all over the piano’s keyboard [leaving] the performer practically breathless and the listeners grinning.”

Ravel wrote his jazz-inspired Sonata for Violin and Piano between 1923 and 1927, at a time when W. C. Handy’s band was introducing jazz and blues to adoring crowds in Paris. The following year the Frenchman traveled to New York and met a young George Gershwin, with whom he spent several evenings in Harlem soaking up the American sound.

The Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble is Oklahoma City’s foremost presenter of classical chamber music. For more information, visit us at www.brightmusic.org.

Renown clarinetist to be at Armstrong

Clarinetist Kinan Azmeh, a member of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Project, will perform with the Aizuri String Quartet at Armstrong Auditorium on Thursday, Mar. 16, at 7:30 p.m. Taking inspiration from the Silk Road Project genre of world music, their program “Music and Migration” will feature works by contemporary composers from North and South America, and from tender American folk suites to driving Middle Eastern rhythms.

“We are thrilled to offer something so rare and extraordinary on our stage,” said Program Director Ryan Malone. “Kinan is such a legendary clarinetist, who can combine the sound worlds of the Middle East with so many other styles, especially having him team up with such a versatile American string quartet.”

Hailed as a “virtuoso, intensely soulful" by the New York Times and "spellbinding" by the New Yorker, Syrian-born, Brooklyn-based genre-bending composer and clarinetist Kinan Azmeh has been touring the globe with great acclaim as a soloist, composer and improviser. He has collaborated with Yo-Yo Ma, Daniel Barenboim, John McLaughlin, Aynur and Djivan Gasparian, among others. Azmeh is a Silkroad ensemble artist with whom he won a GRAMMY in 2016. His recent orchestral album Uneven Sky with the Deutsches Symphony Orchestra Berlin has won Germany’s OpusKlassik Award in 2019.

Praised by The Washington Post for “astounding” and “captivating” performances that draw from its notable “meld of intellect, technique and emotions,” the Aizuri Quartet was named the recipient of the 2022 Cleveland Quartet Award by Chamber Music America, and since its inception in 2012 has received major chamber music prizes on three continents and been in residence at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Quartet's debut album, Blueprinting, featuring new works written for the Aizuri Quartet by five American composers, was released by New Amsterdam Records to critical acclaim (“In a word, stunning” —I Care If You Listen), nominated for a 2019 GRAMMY Award, and named one of NPR Music’s Best Classical Albums of 2018.

Tickets start at $30 for adults and $25 for youth aged 6 and up (under 6 not recommended). For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit ArmstrongAuditorium.org or call the Box Office at (405) 285-1010.

Kinan Azmeh

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Celebrates Grand Opening in Edmond

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand opening at 1308 W. Covell Rd.

Looking for Kids Haircuts in Edmond? Their Mission is to create an entertaining experience for kids by providing a superior haircut with warm, experienced stylists in a meticulously clean and sanitized place filled with fun not found in other kid’s salons! At Sharkey's, all haircuts come with a wash, cut, blow-dry, fun cars or gaming stations, choice of videos, mini-cures, lollipops, and a balloon!

To learn more about Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids, visit www.sharkeyscutsforkidsedmond.com

Rep wants utility competition

Oklahoma State Rep. Ryan Martinez (R-Edmond) last week filed legislation that would help reduce Oklahoma’s skyrocketing electrical bills by injecting choice and competition into the electricity market. HB 1602 would give commercial and industrial customers currently in OG&E or PSO territories the option of purchasing electricity from other vendors beginning in January 2025. Residential consumers would have that option in January 2027.

The bill only impacts current OG&E and PSO customers. Businesses and residents served by rural cooperatives are unaffected.

The Alliance for Electrical Restructuring in Oklahoma (AERO) praised Martinez for seeking solu-

tions for skyrocketing electricity prices. In 2022, residential customers experienced a 59 percent price increase for electricity while commercial and industrial consumers both saw price increases of over 100 percent.

“For a long time, Oklahoma had some of the most affordable electricity in the nation,” said AERO Executive Director Mike Boyd. “That’s just not true anymore, and it’s unfair to deny Oklahoma families and businesses the chance to shop for better deals and lower prices. Kudos to Rep. Martinez for recognizing that a free-market system is going to deliver better outcomes then one controlled by monopoly utilities.”

State Senate votes to ban gender transition for minors

The full Senate has approved a measure prohibiting gender transition procedures for children under the age of 18. Sen. Julie Daniels, RBartlesville, is the author of Senate Bill 613, which bans the use of any medications or surgical procedures for the purpose of gender transition. Behavioral and mental health counseling and medications for depression and anxiety are not included.

“These transition treatments are permanent, irreversible, and can lead to a host of medical problems later in life. Being transgender, gender non-conforming, or experiencing gender dysphoria is very real, but these are mental, not physical conditions. Children need behavioral and

mental health treatment to give them the opportunity to resolve these issues,” Daniels said. “Once they reach 18, they may not wish to seek more drastic treatment, but at least they will have reached some level of maturity to make a more informed decision.”

SB 613 provides for treatment of precocious puberty, delayed puberty and conditions such as ambiguous or incomplete genitalia, both male and female genitalia, and sex development disorders.

Penalties for violation may include felony charges, license revocation and civil actions which can be filed by a parent or guardian or by the child when they reach age 18.

Catholic bishops praise Speaker McCall’s parental choice tax plan

Oklahoma House Speaker Charles McCall today unveiled House Bill 2775, named the Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit, which proposes notable increases in state funding for public schools, teacher salaries, and a new state income tax credit of up to $5,000 per year, per child for private school tuition expenses.

An alternative to the much-debated Education Savings Account proposal in the Oklahoma Senate, HB 2775 offers tax credits which will be refundable with a pre-bate option.

The Most Rev. Paul S. Coakley, Archbishop of Oklahoma City and Most Rev. David Konderla, Bishop of Tulsa, issued the following statement

praising House Bill 2775:

"This is an historic day for choice in education and for Oklahoma parents. Speaker McCall's 'Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit' package boasts new, landmark funding for public and private schools that includes a state income tax credit for private school tuition and other education expenses.

Speaker McCall's bill will keep Oklahoma parents from being double-taxed and allow them to direct their tax dollars to the school that best meets their children's educational needs. We are grateful for bold efforts to improve educational opportunities in our state."

The sin tax folly

By Steve Gust

I read The Oklahoman’s pro and anti recreation marijuana editorials Sunday.

That election is coming up on March 7.

The pro-marijuana writer did mention that Oklahoma would reap a great deal of tax revenue from the product. Of course they said that education could benefit greatly.

I’m old enough to remember many other issues being passed because of this same promise.

With this logic we passed liquorby-the drink, parimutuel horse racing, the lottery, casino betting and medicinal marijuana. There are probably a few others I’ve forgotten about.

However we never seem to be able to quite fully fund education even with all of these new revenue sources. I’m skeptical that it would happen this time either.

Make your own decision whether you want marijuana legalized. But I wouldn’t base it on tax revenue

we’re allegedly going to make.

I’m not someone who thinks it’s a good idea to empower government with more money. They’re terrible stewards of our funds.

——

It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years, but was in 2003 when the Station nightclub in West Warwick, R.I. had a horrific fire. It killed 100 people, mostly young folks, who were there to enjoy a live band concert.

Recently CBS News and the “48 Hours,” program revisited this terrible tragedy. The band’s pyrotechnics set the ceiling on fire. The walls and ceiling were coated with a very flammable foam. The people had less than two minutes to get out. A bunch were also hurt.

Sometimes we may feel annoyed with some fire codes. But they can save lives and nobody should ever have to be killed, or hurt in a fire like the Rhode Island one. If you go somewhere public, you might want to make sure you know where the exits are.

(Steve Gust may be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com.

House Bill 2775

House GOP lists education plan

Oklahoma House Republicans last week announced an education plan designed for every student, parent and teacher in the state.

House Bill 2775, authored by House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, includes a $500 million increase in funding for public schools throughout the state that will fund $2,500 pay raises for every teacher not designated as an administrator; $50 million to be distributed to schools receiving below-average funding from annual local tax revenue; and $300 million to be distributed to public school districts on a per-pupil basis.

House Bill 1935 creates the Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit Act, which would allow a $5,000 annual tax credit for parents of eligible students that attend private schools and a $2,500 credit for homeschooled students.

"This plan works for every education stakeholder in our state," McCall said. "First and most important, it works for students and supports strong parental involvement in a child's education. We

know the key to future success is a great education, and House Republicans are committed to ensuring each student can attend the school that best meets their needs.

"But as I've said repeatedly over the past year, we must accomplish this goal without eroding necessary funding to our public schools and our public school teachers who are so vital to student academic excellence. This plan continues our record level of classroom funding for our public schools and raises pay for public school teachers so they have the resources needed to excel in their jobs."

McCall said House education policy provides for less government intrusion into local districts and the personal lives and finances of Oklahomans.

This education plan will set Oklahoma even with Florida and put Oklahoma just behind Texas in per pupil expenditure. Additionally, it will put the state ahead of Arkansas and Missouri, and tied with Kansas for average teacher pay.

"This is a policy and funding plan that sets every kid up for success," McCall said.

Of the additional money appropriated per pupil through the school funding formula, the money may be used only for:

Increasing teacher and support staff salaries;

Programs related to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) coursework;

Textbooks, curriculum and other instructional materials, including instruments or accessories for music or art courses, and technology for classrooms;

Increasing classroom capacity and additional institutional space for academic instructs if a school is at full capacity;

Fees for nationally standardized assessments;

Summer and specialized after-school education programs;

Student support services, including health and mental health; and

Tuition and fees for concurrent enrollment coursework at an institution within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education.

Parent tax credits would include:

Private school tuition and fee credits of $5,000 per dependent eligible student in each tax year;

Proud legacy of the Armed Forces

By Markwayne Mullin

Over the past century, Oklahoma has played a crucial role in our nation’s military readiness. Our five world-class installations have been instrumental in training America’s warfighters, while our munition plant kept them supplied on the battlefield, and our depots have surpassed equipment manufacturing and repair standards.

That military presence is deeply embedded in our state’s history, carrying our nation through war and peace. It’s an absolute honor to have been appointed to the Senate Armed Services Committee to help carry on this legacy and play a small part in preserving centuries worth of defense excellence. It is a responsibility I will not take lightly.

When our military communities succeed, our state succeeds. Together, the five installations employ over 70,000 military personnel and civilians, and contribute $19.3 billion annually to our state’s economy.

The McAlester Army Ammunition Plant is the largest storage facility for conventional ammunition in the Department of Defense (DOD), storing nearly one-third of our entire stock, and Tinker Air Force

Base (AFB) is the largest military depot repair complex in the world. Further, our Army National Guard had the highest recruitment numbers in the nation in 2021. Our military represents a third of our economy, serving as a direct testament to the success of our bases and the surrounding communities.

Tinker AFB has recently been tapped to maintain the United States’ new stealth bomber, Northrup Grumman’s B-21. This is a reflection of the Air Force’s trust in Tinker’s outstanding maintenance capabilities and a nod to the personnel excellence in maintaining the legacy B-1 and B-2 systems. Also,

to the Editor policy

Fort Sill will receive the Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) schoolhouse by Fiscal Year 2024, providing stationed troops with essential training in a new field of warfighting. This will provide incredible opportunities for economic growth as corporations like Epirus and Kratos partner with the DOD to bring the latest technology as well as hundreds of jobs to the thriving Oklahoma aerospace sector.

Within Senate Armed Services, I am thrilled to have been assigned to three subcommittees including, Airland; Emerging Threats and Capabilities; and Readiness and Management. These assignments present an excellent opportunity for our state, and I’m proud to give a voice to the installations and military personnel who call Oklahoma home. I look forward to working with the Ranking Member, Roger Wicker and remaining in lockstep with leadership across the state to advance our shared priorities.

As our nation faces increased security threats and unprecedented global challenges, we must approach them head-on and ensure our priorities remain clear. The Armed Services Committee must work in a bipartisan manner to conduct oversight over the DOD and prioritize fiscal responsibility within the annual defense budget. We must demand accountability from the Pentagon and streamline efficiency to cut waste, fraud, and abuse.

Steve Gust

touts its online program rating

The University of Central Oklahoma is ranked as a top institution for its online Master of Public Administration (MPA) program according to a recent national ranking by OnlineMastersDegrees.org. Central ranked 34 out of 50 and is the only higher education institution in the state recognized on the list.

More than 7,700 accredited universities were assessed on quality, affordability, study flexibility and student support. Data sources include the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.

The UCO MPA program recently earned a seven-year accreditation from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), which is the global standard for public service education.

“This recognition, and our recent accreditation, places the UCO MPA program in an elite group,” said Kenneth Kickham, Ph.D., professor for the Department of Political Science and core faculty member in the MPA program at Central.

“We have worked very hard over the last decade to build and shape our MPA program to fit the needs of our students — whether they attend in person or fully online.”

As part of Central’s nationally ranked Connected Campus, the 36-credit hour program can be completed in as little as two years, when attended full time. Parttime options are available, as well. The UCO MPA offers two areas of study; students can choose between the public and

See Program, Page 12

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Education and Professional Studies recently awarded three alumnae with distinguished teaching awards for their notable contributions to the field of education at the 2022 Honoring a Noble Profession banquet. Pictured, left to right, Sarahi Garcia-Acosta; Alexiss Lopez; and, Keri Smith.

Distinguished teaching awards noted

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Education and Professional Studies recently awarded three alumnae with distinguished teaching awards for their notable contributions to the field of education at the 2022 Honoring a Noble Profession banquet. Recipients of these awards include Keri Smith; Sarahi Garcia-Acosta; and, Alexiss Lopez.

“We know the impact that teachers have on students, schools and our community,” said Jennifer Burris, Ph.D., coordinator of teacher recruitment and retention at Central.

“It is critical we recognize the dedication and passion of educators who live out UCO’s mission of transformative learning on a daily basis.”

Smith graduated from Central with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education in 2014 and currently works for Yukon Public Schools. She was awarded the Dr. Joann McCarthy Inspiring Educator Award, which recognizes innovative alumni who have inspired students, colleagues, schools and communities throughout their professional career. Smith mentors new teachers in their early professional career and has developed educational kits to provide different teaching methods for student learning. Outside of the classroom, she served on the Oklahoma State Superintendent Teacher Advisory Coun-

cil, which focuses on issues pertaining to education. Additionally, she was selected as a finalist for Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year.

Garcia-Acosta graduated from Central with a Bachelor of Science in early childhood education in 2020 and currently works for Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS). She was awarded the UCO Inspiring Early Career Teacher Award, which honors educators with less than three years of experience in the classroom who carry on Central’s mission of transformative learning through leadership. Garcia-Acosta was named Rookie Teacher of the Month at Arthur Elementary in Oklahoma City. She was one of the first participants in the OKCPS Foundation Bilingual Teacher Pipeline Program, which focuses on providing resources for bilingual teaching professionals and building a diverse teacher workforce. As a representative of the program, she shared key messaging to state legislators and the OKCPS Foundation board of directors.

Lopez graduated from Central with a Bachelor of Science in early childhood education in 2019 and currently works for OKCPS. She was also awarded the UCO Inspiring Early Career Teacher Award. As a graduate of the OKCPS Foundation Bilingual Teacher Pipeline Program, she implements engaging lessons in both English and Spanish.

organizations, the military, indigenous and tribal nations and the private sector.

Other fully online degrees offered through the UCO Connected Campus include the Bachelor of Business Administration in human resource management, management or marketing, the professional Master of Business Administration and the Master of Education in library media education, Master of Arts in strategic communications and the Master of Science in nursing, as well as the RN to B.S. in nursing track.

UCO also offers adult degree

From Page 11

completion programs designed for adults who have earned prior college credits and want to complete their degree. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership, a Bachelor of Business Administration in general business, a Bachelor of Science in general studies or a Bachelor of Arts in applied liberal arts.

To view a complete list of the rankings, visit onlinemastersdegrees.org/best-programs/public-administration-mpa/.

To learn more about Central’s online degree programs and Connected Campus, visit online.uco.edu.

To know more, contact online.uco.edu

Fifty years of helping seniors

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Central Oklahoma celebrates this year 50 years of neighbors helping neighbors.

“We are honored to celebrate this milestone this year,” said Executive Director Beth Patterson. “In the five decades RSVP has been rooted in our community, our volunteers have helped so many of their neighbors through local nonprofits and have helped so many older adults with transportation to doctor’s appointments.”

RSVP has more than 350 active volunteers, age 55+, who give their time to more than 60 local nonprofit partner agencies in the central Oklahoma community.

Patterson said volunteers serve our neighbors in many ways. Some help children develop a love of reading, strengthen young families through family services organizations, serve in food pantries, assemble care pack-

ages for active military, and help acclimate new immigrants to our community.

RSVP of Central Oklahoma started in 1973. Over the five decades, more than 6,000 volunteers have given 8.9 million volunteer hours at an estimated service value of $1.3 billion.

The organization’s Provide-A-Ride senior transportation program started in 1994, and since that time volunteer drivers have given more than 130,000 rides to low-income older adults.

Patterson has been with the organization for 40 of the 50 years.

“I’ve found that all RSVP volunteers have a common denominator— they freely share their kindness and time to serve others,” she said. “I feel blessed and humbled to work so closely with this phenomenal team of volunteers!”

The organization will celebrate its birthday and honor its volunteers with a party in the fall.

Falcone’s Pizza Celebrates Grand Opening in Edmond

Falcone’s Pizza recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand opening at 216 S. Santa Fe Ave. Falcone's Pizza centers around incredible NY-Style formulas and recipes passed down through generations. They pride themselves on the freshest and best quality ingredients. Everything is house-made fresh day by day; from their fire flame-broiled pizza and unique cheeses.

To learn more about Falcone’s Pizza, visit www.falconespizza.com.

Remember being told as a kid that eating your carrots would improve your eyesight? While a diet containing carrots promotes good vision, your eyes may benefit even more by eating broccoli, kale or Brussels sprouts.

That’s the assessment of Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Scott Plafker, Ph.D., who recently found that a compound in cruciferous vegetables shows the potential to prevent agerelated macular degeneration.

In research models, the compound sulforaphane preserved the function of light-sensitive cells in the retina. These cells, called cones, are responsible for color vision by sending signals to the brain, which then translates the signals into color.

Macular degeneration occurs when these cells die, causing blind spots and blurry or distorted central vision. It can worsen over time, affecting a person’s ability to read, drive and recognize faces.

The most common treatment for the eye disorder is “handfuls of vitamins and antioxidant supplements,” Plafker said. Sulforaphane is a natural antioxidant, he said, but it typically is not part of the suggested cocktail for macular degeneration.

“This compound has previously shown the ability to help our cells defend themselves from oxidative stress,” Plafker said. “In these experiments, sulforaphane provided that defense to the retina.”

Sulforaphane is found in cauliflower, radishes, broccoli and other members of the cabbage family. It also is available as a supplement, but Plafker said research has shown it offers more value in its natural form, whether fresh, frozen or canned.

Scientists have conducted numerous clinical trials testing sulforaphane’s benefits on medical is-

sues ranging from autism and schizophrenia to enlarged ovaries and prostate cancer. Plafker’s lab was the first to demonstrate its potential to recover cone function.

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in older adults, affecting more than 10 million people in the U.S., according to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation. The risk increases with age. For those 75 or older, the risk of developing macular degeneration is 1 in 3.

“Dr. Plafker’s findings raise the intriguing possibility that a well-known compound present in many vegetables may protect against vision loss as people age,” said OMRF Vice President of Research Rod McEver, M.D. “Considering there are no treatments for most people with macular degeneration, this is an especially compelling discovery.”

More research is needed to better understand how and why cells in the eye benefit from sulforaphane, Plafker said, and whether that benefit extends universally or only to a subset of potential macular degeneration patients.

But for now, Plafker said, lean into green. “A diet rich in vegetables like broccoli, kale and cabbage has health benefits as far as the eye can see.”

The findings were published in the journal Molecular Vision. The research was supported by grant 1 R01EY024944-01A1 from the National Eye Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, and grants from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology and the Presbyterian Health Foundation. Scientists at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, contributed to the research

Edmond’s Gianna Nichols up for state FFA officer

Gianna Nichols, a member of the Edmond FFA chapter, is a candidate for state FFA office. Running for the office of secretary, Nichols faces the opportunity of serving more than 29,000 Oklahoma FFA members.

State FFA officers travel across the state and nation to provide leadership and personal development training for FFA members. They also make decisions about organizational policy.

“Serving as a state officer is one of the greatest honors in FFA,” said Trevor Lucas, state FFA executive secretary. “Officers play an extremely important role within our state association and are expected to set the example both in and out of the jacket for all of Oklahoma FFA members.”

Through a series of interviews on February 11 and 12, a nominating committee narrowed the field of candidates to three for each of the seven offices up for election. The eighth race is for state president, whose candidates have served as officers since May 2022. Two delegates from each of Oklahoma’s 366 official FFA chapters will cast the deciding votes during the upcoming convention. The new officers will be introduced during the final convention session Wednesday, May 3, in the BOK Arena in Tulsa, Okla.

FFA is an integral part of the Agricultural Education Division of the Oklahoma Department of Career and

Technology Education system. The Oklahoma FFA Association is the sixth-largest state association in the nation with more than 29,000 members. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more information, visit www.okffa.org and follow @FFAOK on Twitter or @okffa on Instagram.

Gianna Nichols

Certain veggies may prevent eye disorder, scientist finds

Oklahoma

Medical Research Foundation

scientist Scott Plafker, Ph.D.

Marvel film good but not great

By George Gust

“Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania” is the latest entry in the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Evangaline Lily) , along with Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and Janet Van Dyne ( Michelle Pfeiffer ), explore the Quantum Realm. Where they interact with strange creatures and embark on an adventure that goes beyond the limits of what they thought was possible.

Over the years and films, Marvel movies have been diving deeper and deeper into the complex comic book mythologies that had up until this current era of comic book films seemed too convoluted for general audiences. With the unbridled success of “Spider-Man: No Way Home” comic movies have the Green Light to go as far and as deep into the absurd comic history and multiverse rules. Where the original “Ant-Man” served as a pallet cleansing film in the ongoing Avengers story arc, “Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania” is the next big push forward in the new chapter of blockbuster Marvel movies, which ends up being detrimental to the fun and

comedic tone that made the first two Ant-Man films enjoyable changeups to the ‘end of the universe’ narrative.

“Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania” is a movie that utilizes the cutting edge of technology to realize a world that stretches the imagination of science and fantasy. However, for all the creative visuals, the movie feels like it exists in a green screen vacuum. As a result of this computer-generated visual pallet the performances of the immensely talented cast fall short of the charm of the previous two movies. Even

the dry comedic stylings of Rudd still make an appearance, but feel half-hearted amidst the lifeless world this film creates. Newcomer Jonathan Majors, as the antagonist brings a palpable movie star energy to the role, but the inconsistent story and universe rules take away from the overall gravitas of the character.

Overall, “Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania” is an enjoyable enough comic book film that builds upon the multitude of comic book lore but lacks the personality that made the other films in the series unique in the landscape of Marvel movies.

With more and more Marvel movies hitting the big screen, what used to feel like a treat for popcorn comic film fans feels more like assigned homework that is required viewing for the next big spectacle.

“Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania” is rated PG-13 for violence/action, and language.

2.7 out of 5 stars

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

Answer on Page 19

Integris Health adds new OB/GYN

INTEGRIS Health Medical Group welcomes a new obstetrician and gynecologist specializing in women’s health at INTEGRIS Health Canadian Valley Hospital in Yukon.

Amanda N. Berry, D.O., enjoys the opportunity to care for the physical and mental wellbeing of women throughout their lifetime and strives to build a relationship of mutual respect with her patients.

Her areas of interest include: prenatal care, highrisk prenatal care, contraception and sterilization, routine gynecologic care, laparoscopy including hysterectomy, & STI testing & prevention.

She earned her medical degree from William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Mississippi and completed her residency training at SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital in Oklahoma City. She is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Women's Canadian Valley is located at 1205 Health Center Parkway, Suite 100 in Yukon. For more information or to make an appointment, call 405-717-5496.

Crossword Puzzle

Lankford teams up with Democrat to oppose federal stadium subsidies

Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the No Tax Subsidies for Stadiums Act, a bill to end generous federal subsidies for professional sports stadiums. The bill would close a loophole in the tax code that allows professional sports teams to finance new stadiums with municipal bonds that are exempt from federal taxes. Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) is leading the bill’s introduction in the House of Representatives.

Municipal bonds are intended to give communities a way to finance projects, such as hospitals, schools, and roads, without needing to pay federal taxes on the debt’s interest. Using municipal bonds to finance sports stadiums diverts money away from these critical local infrastructure projects.

“Oklahomans should not be forced to pay for new professional sports stadiums in another state with their federal tax dollars when our veterans need better access to care, our federal interstate highways need upkeep, and our debt is skyrocketing past $31.5 trillion. Local taxes can pay for local stadiums,” said Lankford. “Our bill provides an opportunity to cut irresponsible federal spending and refocus our priorities on our constitutional tasks and responsibilities, not sports stadiums. I can’t see any reason we ever started using federal tax dollars to pay for stadiums, and I certainly don’t think we should keep doing it.”

"Over the last two decades, billions of American taxpayer dollars have been wasted by subsidizing the costs of professional sports stadiums," said Booker. "It is wrong for wealthy investors to exploit a tool intended for critical local infrastructure projects, like schools and hospitals, in order to finance these stadi-

ums. I am proud to introduce this bill that would put an end to this wasteful practice."

“American taxpayers should not be forced to front the bill for professional sport teams. Billionaire sports owners are perfectly capable of financing their own stadiums to stage their immensely profitable games. Our tax dollars should be used to create communities where all of our families can thrive—communities that are safe, health, and economically secure,” said Blumenauer.

The bill would end federal subsidies for stadium financing but would not prevent localities and states from bidding and offering economic incentives to teams. In eliminating this wasteful expenditure, the bill also unties the hands of local governments to finance their stadium subsidies with taxes on tickets and in-stadium purchases—allowing states to target taxes on the people who actually use and benefit from the subsidy. Current tax law does not allow local governments to finance federal stadium subsidies by levying taxes on stadium purchases.

In a 2020 paper included in the National Tax Journal, it was estimated that as much as $4 billion have been lost in federal tax revenue from subsidies to sports stadiums. The current Super Bowl Host Committee believes this year’s Super Bowl brought in approximately $500 million to the local Arizona economy.

In addition to the recent Super Bowl, Phoenix recently hosted the PGA’s Waste Management Open from February 6-12 and Car Week. A professor at Arizona State University says the three events will help the Valley area surpass $1 billion in revenue.

Arledge makes additions to staff

Two new people have joined the Arledge team, the accounting firm announced today.

Justin C. Sartor joins the firm as an audit associate. He graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor of science degree in accounting and also holds a bachelor of business administration in finance. Sartor brings more than a decade of experience to this position.

Babah Sesay is a business analytics student at the University of Central Oklahoma and will serve as an intern during the spring semester. Sesay holds a bachelor’s degree in applied accounting from Lisbon’s Instituto Português de Administração de Marketing and related certifications from Baker Tilly International, Sierra Leone.

““Justin’s skillset and professional experience contributed to his candidacy for the role. We look forward to working with him in service to our clients,” said LaDonna Sinning, partner. “As a local employer, we are committed to mentorship through internship opportunities to help prepare the next generation of skilled financial professionals. We look forward to helping Babah learn more about our industry”

Arledge is the largest locally owned accounting firm in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area and a recognized leader in the accounting industry. The firm offers practical solutions in the areas of tax preparation and planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting.

Survey: Inflation still on the minds of many

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index increased 0.5 points in January to 90.3, remaining below the 49-year average of 98. Down six points from last month, 26% of owners reported inflation was their single most important problem in operating their business. Owners expecting better business conditions over the next six months improved six points from December to a net negative 45%.

“While inflation is starting to ease for small businesses, owners remain cynical about future business conditions,” said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “Owners have a negative outlook on the small business economy but continue to try to fill open positions and return to a full staff to improve productivity.”

State-specific data is unavailable, but NFIB State Director Jerrod Shouse said:

“Inflation, made worse by the labor shortage, continues to wreak havoc for small businesses. It’s incumbent on the Legislature to stabilize our economic recovery, so small business owners can do what they do best: meet their customers’ needs and create good-paying jobs for Oklahomans.”

Forty-five percent of owners reported job openings that were hard to fill, up four points from December, remaining historically very high.

The net percent of owners raising average selling prices decreased one point to a net 42% seasonally adjusted, too high for 2% target.

The net percent of owners who expect real sales to be higher worsened four points from December to a net negative 14%.

As reported in NFIB’s monthly jobs report, 57% of owners reported hiring or trying to hire in January. Of those hiring or trying to hire, 91% of owners reported few or no qualified applicants for the positions they were trying to fill.

About NFIB:

For nearly 80 years, NFIB has been the voice of small business, advocating on behalf of America’s small and independent business owners, both in Washington, D.C., and in all 50 state capitals. NFIB is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and member driven. Since our founding in 1943, NFIB has been exclusively dedicated to small and independent businesses and remains so today. For more information, please visit www.NFIB.com.

Big Tobacco targeted in TSET campaign

This week Tobacco Stops With Me has launched a new multimedia campaign giving a unique and jarring perspective on the many lies and tactics the tobacco industry uses to addict Oklahomans.

Tobacco Stops With Me is a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET).

Tobacco companies spend an estimated $150 million each year marketing their deadly products in Oklahoma and use a variety of half-truths and tricks to mislead consumers. These dishonest, manipulative actions result in over half a million new smokers and thousands of Oklahoma deaths yearly. Big Tobacco will do whatever it takes to addict more customers and make a profit, and no one is off limits.

“Shapeshifter,” the newest campaign from Tobacco Stops With Me, unmasks Big Tobacco’s deceits.

Personified as a shapeshifting character, industry lies are played out in real-life scenarios. Viewers watch as Big Tobacco takes the form of everyday Oklahomans and spins the same lies, strategies and words that the industry uses to addict customers: teens, Black Americans, low-income communities, women and more.

“It’s important that Oklahomans understand exactly how and where Big Tobacco targets them,” said Julie Bisbee, TSET Executive Director. “If we want to fight against this manipulative industry, we need to recognize the truth and call them out for their actions. It’s how we can protect ourselves and the ones we love.”

“Shapeshifter” will broadcast on TV and radio

statewide, and Oklahomans can visit StopsWithMe.com for an interactive experience. The campaign will also include social media content, print and digital ads.

To see this campaign and learn more about the truth behind Big Tobacco’s tricks, visit StopsWithMe.com.

——Tobacco Stops With Me is a statewide campaign, funded through the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Trust, that provides an efficient, emotional

and highly recognizable tobacco-free message for Oklahomans to rally around. By educating the public about the negative effects and impact of tobacco, the goal of Tobacco Stops With Me is to prevent and reduce tobacco use, and improve the health and quality of life of every Oklahoman. Tobacco Stops With Me aims to inspire individuals to make positive changes—not only for their own health, but for the health of the entire state as well. Free resources and more information at StopsWithMe.com.

School names its National Merit Scholarship finalists

The Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM) announced last week that 14 seniors have been named Finalists in the 2023 Competition for National Merit Scholarships.

The OSSM students are Jackson Copeland (Oklahoma City), Amanda Dai (Ardmore), AJ Jayasekar (Edmond), Janice Ku (Stillwater), Charles Liu (Stillwater), Damodar Pai (Edmond), Sourish Pasula (Edmond), Sarvesh Ramakrishnan (Edmond), Anoushka Sasikumar (Oklahoma City), Meena Seshadri (Norman), Jason Wang (Walnut, Calif.), Natalie Waters (Duncan), Brian Yang (Stillwater), and Alexander Zhao (Ardmore).

Selection as National Merit Finalists is based on several factors, including results of the SAT or ACT that confirm performance on the PSAT.

“These seniors have accomplished a great deal in their high school career,” said Edna McDuffie Manning, Ed.D., interim president of OSSM. “We congratulate them for this achievement of being among 7,000 of the nation’s most academically talented high school students.”

Approximately 16,000 semifinalists were consid-

ered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation in the 2023 annual National Merit Scholarship program. These high school seniors now have an opportunity to compete for nearly $28 million in scholarships. Established in 1955, National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) is an independent, not-for-profit organization. Since its founding, NMSC has recognized 2.9 million academically talented high school students and provided over 377,000 scholarships worth $1.5 billion. The honors awarded by NMSC to exceptionally able students are viewed as definitive marks of excellence and contribute to developing future leaders. About OSSM

Nationally ranked in the top 1 percent of high schools nationwide, OSSM provides a college-level, academically advanced curriculum to juniors and seniors across the state. For more information, visit www.ossm.edu or call (405) 521-6436.

For more information, call (405) 521-6436 or visit the website at www.ossm.edu.

OSSM is a residential high school for juniors and seniors from across the state and is the only one of its kind in Oklahoma. OSSM partners with the

state of Oklahoma and the Department of Education to provide an advanced STEM education.

Because the junior year is the first at OSSM, students begin preparation for standardized testing at their sending schools. While at OSSM, students increase their scores by an average of three points.

Below is a list of the OSSM National Merit Semifinalists and their sending schools.

Jackson Copeland, Westmoore High School

Amanda Dai, Plainview High School in Ardmore, Okla.

AJ Jayasekar, Deer Creek High School

Janice Ku, Stillwater High School

Charles Liu, Stillwater High School

Damodar Pai, Edmond Memorial High School

Sourish Pasula, Deer Creek High School

Sarvesh Ramakrishnan, Edmond North High School

Anoushka Sasikumar, Southmoore High School

Meena Seshadri, Norman North High School

Jason Wang, Walnut High School in Walnut, Calif.

Natalie Waters, Duncan High School

ESA awards service pins at its February meeting

International service organization

Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Edmond chapter Gamma Zeta had a fruitful meeting. Bev Fedde received her 60 year pin for 60 years of unselfish volunteerism for the Edmond community and new member Priscilla Baudoin received her jewel pin. Two guests attended the meeting: Phyllis Dragus and Rhonda Flint.

Gamma Zeta’s educational t heme this year is Oklahoma Route 66 Diners. Liz King informed the group about Tally’s Diner in Tulsa, which has received Tulsa’s Best Diner, Tulsa’s Best Breakfast, and Tulsa’s Best Cinnamon Roll awards over the years. Also presenting, Priscilla Baudoin spoke to the group about Rock Cafe in Stroud. Their specials include homemade bread bowls

filled with yummy potato soup, meatloaf, stews, cornbread and Indian tacos. The owner’s electic career spans years with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, being  associated with Walt Disney Productions, and the movie “Cars.”

Fundraisers approaching are Fish City on March 7. Eat there any time from 11am - 8:00 pm that Tuesday to help Gamma Zeta raise money for its local charities: Free to Live, Salvation Army, No Boundaries, Int’l., Boys Ranch Town, and  Coffee Creek Riding Stables. Also March 26 our bunco fundraiser for St. Jude is from 2-4 at New Covenant Methodist Church. Men, women and older children are invited to play for prizes. A raffle will also be held and prizes given for bunco wins.

Jacque Cantrell (right) awards Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Gamma Zeta member Bev Fedde with her pin for 60 years of service to the chapter and the community.

Jacque Cantrel presents Priscilla Baudoin, Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Gamma Zeta member, with her jewel pin. Within the next 6 months, Baudoin will be working toward her first pearl award.

Lt. Governor in Edmond to tout benefits of entrepreneurship

Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell visited the Francis Tuttle Technology Center Danforth Campus last week for the first time since it opened.

Pinnell visited classrooms, collaborative spaces and meeting spaces at Danforth, which opened to students in August 2021. He had previously toured the facility while it was still under construction.

The Danforth Campus was designed to encourage entrepreneurship, creativity, and collaboration from all programs. While speaking to students in the Entrepreneurship program — which is unique to the Danforth Campus — Pinnell said he was happy to see students studying a subject that can be used in many Oklahoma industries.

“You can use this anywhere,” Pinnell said. “These are skills you can use wherever you go, whether you choose to go to college or you enter the workforce [after graduation.]”

Pinnell’s tour included the Design Thinking Studios, named after great Oklahomans Herman Meinders and Mary Golda Ross. He also visited the d.School, a collaborative space used by both students and local businesses to share and build on new ideas.

He visited with several students and instructors along the way. Pinnell also viewed the AXIS program, which serves as a small business incubator, a resource to self-employed individuals, and a jumping off point for new business ideas and ventures.

State seeking bids to run state park restaurants

The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department announced last week the release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the operations of Oklahoma State Park restaurants.

In coordination with the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), the department issued an RFP after releasing a Request for Information in January and hosting open houses at each restaurant. During the recent open houses and RFI process, interested parties and members of the community were invited to tour restaurant facilities, ask questions and share ideas for Oklahoma State Parks.

“We have received fantastic interest and participation throughout the Request for Information process,”

said OTRD Executive Director, Shelley Zumwalt. “Since joining this agency, my top priority has been and continues to be to restore our park’s restaurant services as quickly as possible with the best possible partner or partners. I’m confident in our ability to find the right fit for the agency, our parks’ system and Oklahoma.”

The RFP process will be led by OMES, with support from OTRD. After the close of the RFP, a team of diverse evaluators will assess each proposal.

State parks with restaurants include Beavers Bend, Lake Murray, Quartz Mountain, Robbers Cave, Roman Nose and Sequoyah.

RFP responses will be accepted until Friday, March 3 at 3 p.m.

Forrest McMurray joins state parks as Chief Operating Officer

The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department has announced that Forrest McMurray, former Director of Operations for the Executive Office of the Governor of Oklahoma, has joined OTRD as Chief Operating Officer.

“It’s rare to find a trusted leader with the right skills to step in at such a pivotal time for our agency,” said Shelley Zumwalt, OTRD Executive Director. “Forrest’s vast experience will be instrumental in our ability to forge a new path and accelerate our growth as an agency. We are truly lucky to have him onboard, and I’m excited to welcome him to the team.”

McMurray

Office of the Governor and managed the constituent services department. Prior to state service, McMurray worked for the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, specializing in operations and logistics.

In his role at OTRD, McMurray will oversee day-to-day operations and coordinate across all divisions to implement strategic planning and processes.

By Alexx Reger Business Editor

Who doesn’t love waking up in the morning after an amazing night of sleep? Feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day is easy when you have a great mattress! And Sleepworld in Edmond is the place to find your perfect mattress fit. Sleepworld, or Adairs Upholstery of Sleepworld, is locally owned and operate by Robbie and Shari Weeden. Sleepworld has been in Edmond for 70 years.

“We handcraft our mattresses and carry accessory items pertaining to bedding and sleep,” says Shari. “We also have outdoor furniture upholstery.”

Their handcrafted mattresses is what sets them apart and there are many collections to choose from to best fit your sleep and comfort needs. The mattresses are also made inhouse and sold at their location to the public which makes things easy and saves you money!

The Weeden’s say the best part about being business owners is getting to know and service their customers, and growing with the community over the last 70 years. They also love being in Edmond and value the people they get to employ and serve as customers.

In the future, they plan to grow their online sales with innovative new materials. So be on the lookout!

Sleepworld is located at 611 W. Edmond Road. You can contact them for more information at 405-341-2423 or visit www.sleepworldok.com.

In McMurray’s previous role, he designed operational policies, implemented the operating budget for the

“I am excited to be a part of the team leading the charge to promote Oklahoma and manage our state parks,” said McMurray. “I’m eager to work closely with OTRD’s talented employees and leadership team as we continue to build a strong foundation and deliver value to our visitors.”

Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell talks to students in the Entrepreneurship program at Francis Tuttle Technology Center’s Danforth Campus.

CareerTech growth noted

The Oklahoma CareerTech System continues to grow as it offers educational programs to Oklahomans of all ages.

The CareerTech System is celebrating CareerTech Education Month in February. Gov. Kevin Stitt recently issued a proclamation declaring this month as Career and Technical Education Appreciation Month in Oklahoma.

“We strive every day to provide students with skills demanded by the labor market in Oklahoma,” said CareerTech State Director Brent Haken. “Bringing innovation to Oklahoma education is core to Oklahoma CareerTech’s mission to help students explore their interests and businesses meet their workforce needs.”

In Oklahoma, enrollment in CareerTech programs is up across the board, and memberships in CareerTech student organizations such as FFA and HOSA rose 20% in FY 2022 to 95,390 members. The increase in enrollments and CTSO memberships, Haken said, reflect a growing realization of the value of a CareerTech education and the need for curricula that emphasize

career readiness.

“CareerTech programs and student organizations are designed to simultaneously provide students skills demanded in the labor market while preparing them for postsecondary degrees,” Haken said. “In addition to specific career-oriented classes, students are offered opportunities that include internships, apprenticeships and inschool programs aimed at fostering work readiness.”

Oklahoma CareerTech achievements in the past year include being named a CyberPatriot Center of Excellence by the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot program in May. Participation in the Oklahoma CyberPatriot program has more than doubled under CareerTech’s leadership.

CareerTech began a partnership with Express Employment Professionals and the Oklahoma Office of Workforce Development to create more work-based learning opportunities for students. Students in the program are employed by Express and serve as contract employees for worksite employers, reducing liability for employers and opening more opportunities for students.

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Shoe

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Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Blondie

Hägar the Horrible

Calm Waters offers grief support to those in jail

Calm Waters Center for Children and Families, the only grief center in Oklahoma City offering free grief support services to the entire family, is offering a new program in partnership with the Oklahoma County Detention Center to provide FREE grief support groups and workshops to detainees at the Oklahoma County Jail. The program includes grief workshops and weekly support groups for incarcerated men and women and is officially launching this week.

On Wednesday, February 1, Calm Waters provided the inaugural grief support group for detained men in the Oklahoma County Detention Center. On Tuesday, February 7, the agency will provide the first group for detained women.

Calm Waters has served as Oklahoma City’s grief experts for 30 years. When Erin Engelke, Calm Waters Executive Director, was asked to serve on the Criminal Justice Authority Citizens Advisory Board at the OK County Jail, she received a front-row perspective on the severe lack of mental health resources for the individuals detained at the facility. After seeing this extreme need, Engelke, Jail Program Coordinator Mac Mullings, and Calm Waters Program Director Hannah Showalter, LMSW, created a grief support program to serve incarcerated individuals. In December 2022, Calm Waters staff and contract facilitators went to the jail to introduce the program to detainees, as well as provide advice to cope with grief while incarcerated through the holidays.

“Calm Waters is truly honored to provide the state’s first grief support program offered to the men and women at the Oklahoma County Deten-

tion Center,” said Erin Engelke, Calm Waters Executive Director. “Whether losing a loved one while incarcerated or battling overwhelming feelings of grief because of separation from family, each of the individuals we will serve through our grief support groups deserve a safe space to process their losses.”

Calm Waters Grief Support Groups for Incarcerated Individuals curriculum is custom-written to address the experiences detainees face while incarcerated. Calm Waters staff modeled the new curriculum off the existing Calm Waters grief curriculum, which has been successfully serving clients for 30 years, but carefully adapted to address the many types of grief, frustration and limited autonomy in the jail.

Grief Support Groups will meet once weekly for a nine-week series. Each group will be comprised of no more than ten individuals to promote emotional safety within the space. There is no cost for participants to register for the grief support groups.

Calm Waters Grief Support Groups for Incarcerated Individuals are facilitated with trained contract facilitators who have been previously incarcerated. Facilitators were hired in partnership with TEEM, and are highly qualified to provide grief support groups based on lived experience and in-depth grief curriculum training. Furthermore, having a facilitator who has experienced the same environment the participants are living in will create immediate trust in the support group.