Edmond Life and Leisure - April 29, 2021

April 29, 2021

Vol. 21, No. 50

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Help for Single Moms

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.

Summer Activities & Camps See page 1B

FRIDAY, April 30 Sunny High 73° Low 52°

SATURDAY, May 1 Mostly Sunny High 81° Low 60°

SUNDAY, May 2

Partly Cloudy/Wind High 85° Low 62°

Thrive Gathering this June at Crossings Community Church

By Rose Debres Registration is now open for Arise Ministries’ 19th Annual Thrive Gathering, set for June 10-11 at Crossings Community Church and virtually.

Arise Ministries was founded by Pam Kanaly and Shelley Pulliam in 2002. The global organization’s mission is to help single moms create healthy homes.

Thrive is a one-of-a-kind gathering specifically for single moms.

Kanaly said she found herself a single mom to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old after an unwanted divorce. God led her to partner with Pulliam to start Arise.

“I had that special calling in my heart,” she said. “I love to tell single moms that God has a plan for you, too.”

Single moms can be from

all different situations. Single moms can also be widows, never married or a grandmother raising a grandchild.

“Not everyone is a single mom, but everyone knows one,” Kanaly said.

Arise offers a wide array of resources on its website, ariseministries.net. There are online Bible studies, videos on such topics as “Living with Depression” and “Healthy Eating Habits from the Inside Out,” as well as crisis advice.

Thrive will include break-out sessions, speakers, door prizes and much more. Due to the pandemic, last year’s Thrive Gathering was completely virtual.

“Moms love it because it’s fun,” she said. “One single mom said that Thrive is ‘like Christmas’ to her.”

Kanaly said that more than

4,000 people tuned in during the 2020 virtual gathering.

This year, there is an in-person option, as well as an online stream.

There is also an option to register as a church host site that allows unlimited participants in a group.

However one chooses to take part, Kanaly said attendees will go away with tools to help them navigate being a single mom. These moms want to do the best by their kids and gathering with other people walking the same path in life helps give them confidence.

“They feel understood,” Kanaly said. “When they leave, they feel empowered.

“These moms are courageous.”

For more information or to register, visit the website ariseministries.net.

Page 2 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 3

Farmer’s Market Returns The crowds, vendors and produce are all back at the Farmer’s Market in Edmond. Each Saturday, until fall, the market will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Festival Marketplace in Downtown Edmond.

MELINDA INFANTE

New law will cap the cost of insulin Legislation helping Oklahomans with diabetes better afford insulin has become law after being signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt last week.

House Bill 1019 caps the copay for a 30-day supply of insulin to $30 and $90 for a 90-day supply for each covered prescription. Copays are currently based on individual insurance plans. HB 1019 gives authority to the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner to enforce the price cap.

Bill author Rep. Rande Worthen, RLawton, thanked the governor for his support.

“Since introducing House Bill 1019, I’ve heard from many Oklahomans across the state who can hardly afford to pay the rising cost of insulin while also juggling their other bills,” Worthen said. “This bill will save lives by making insulin affordable for those who need it. Nobody should be forced to choose between paying their rent and paying for their life-saving medication.”

The bill was carried in the Senate

by Sen. Frank Simpson, R-Springer, who has been a tireless advocate for Oklahoma’s diabetic community after losing his granddaughter to complications related to Type 1 diabetes.

“Diabetes affects more than 450,000 Oklahomans, and nearly half of those have Type 1 diabetes and are dependent on insulin,” Simpson said. “For many diabetics, having access to affordable insulin can literally mean the difference between life and death, avoiding amputations, blindness or other serious medical problems. Ever-increasing prices, however, are forcing many to ration or skip their insulin to pay for groceries and utilities, which is very dangerous.

This bill is a step in the right direction in making insulin more affordable and helping improve the quality of life for Oklahoma’s diabetics.”

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), more than 450,000 Oklahoma adults suffer from diabetes.

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in Oklahoma, giving the state the fourth highest age-adjusted diabetes death rate in the nation. Diabetes is also the leading cause of blindness, amputation, heart disease, kidney failure and early death—all of which is preventable with proper management.

HB1019 goes into effect Nov. 1, 2021.

Local news?

Do you have a local news item or a local photograph?

Share the good news with your neighbors and the community through Edmond Life & Leisure newspaper.

Simply e-mail the items to news@edmondpaper.com There is no charge.

Page 4 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Celebrating frontline hospitality workers Most businesses have suffered significant economic loss during the pandemic. However, the travel and tourism industry has been hit the hardest. This includes the millions of workers that still have not been able to return to their jobs. The workers in this field are some of the most vulnerable. Edmond’s hospitality businesses, including hotels, retail, restaurants, and attractions were some of the hardest hit in 2020.

Ray Hibbard While folks are starting to travel once again at lease for leisure travel, the industry has a long way to go in recovering.

National Travel and Tourism Week is May 2-8.

The national theme this year is “The Power of Travel”. The good folks at Visit Edmond have put a twist that I am proud of for this year’s celebration.

Edmond’s hospitality businesses, including hotels, retail, restaurants, and attractions were some of the hardest hit in 2020. During National Travel & Tourism Week, May 2-8, 2021, Visit Edmond is advocating for, and honoring, the work of the tourism industry through education, recognition, and celebration.

“This annual tradition for the U.S. travel community celebrates the value of tourism for our businesses, economy, and personal well-being,” said Jennifer Seaton, Edmond’s Tourism Director. “This year’s theme THE POWER OF TRAVEL showcases hospitality employees’ role in restoring our community, one traveler at a time.”

Did you know that before the COVID health crisis, tourism was Oklahoma’s third largest industry?

Travel spending in the United States was down nearly $500 billion in 2020, costing the U.S. economy $1.1 trillion. The total number of travel-supported jobs fell by 34% and millions of hospitality workers lost their jobs. Edmond hotel, food, beverage, and retail reported a 23.7% loss in sales tax from 2019 to 2020 according to the Edmond Economic Development Authority. These losses have proven how critical tourism is to Edmond’s economy and workforce.

While people are beginning to make travel plans, the businesses that make up the travel & tourism industry are still suffering major economic losses.

As we look forward to a future that is once again full of hope, Visit Edmond will be sharing stories, statistics, and giveaway packages to bring awareness to local hotels, restaurants, retail, and attractions. Follow @VisitEdmond for your chance to win.

National Travel & Tourism Week, May 2-8, 2021, is the perfect opportunity to thank the people who make our community great every day - those who work in our Edmond restaurants, attractions, retail, and lodging facilities. These businesses not only support our residents and generate sales tax, but also the thousands of visitors who travel to Edmond each year for business and leisure.

Our friends at Visit Edmond talked to some of the folks that work in this industry and come into contact with our many guests that come to our town. We wanted to share some of what they had to say with our readers. We also hope you will be good to the staff of businesses in this industry.

Please, tip well!

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

Check out what’s inside!

---- Police arrest report ......................................................................Page 6.

---- Obituaries ....................................................................................Page 6.

---- New ESA officers ........................................................................Page 9.

---- Make sure you’ve taken back your old VHS tapes......................Page 10.

---- Spring marshals are named at UCO ..........................................Page 12.

---- George Gust reviews a motion picture ......................................Page 14.

---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page 14.

---- Business news ............................................................................Page 17.

---- Church 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 Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, and George Gust.

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2021 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 • April 29, 2021 • Page 5

PHOTO PROVIDED

OEA President Alicia Priest presents Northern Hills Elementary Custodian Jake Harris with the Education Support Professional of the Year Award.

EPS custodian is top state support employee Northern Hills Elementary student Kyle Skrepnek watches as custodian Jake Harris pushes a broom in the cafeteria, sweeping up crumbs left behind by students eager to go outside for recess.

"He works really hard," reflects Kyle. "He needs a break," says the precocious third-grader.

For 17 years, the nearly 82-year old “Mr. Jake” as he is affectionately called by staff has exceeded the expectations of students and staff to keep Northern Hills in tip-top shape.

"He takes great pride in our school home and it shows. He works with his team to create a beautiful and clean place for our children and staff to work," said Milner. "He is willing to help however and whenever he is asked. He is a treasured member of the Northern Hills family and we love him."

That love inspired teacher Marci McVay to nomi-

nate Jake for the Oklahoma Education Association (OEA) Education Support Professional of the Year.

Recently, the school staff and OEA president Alicia Priest held a celebration to surprise Jake with the news that he won! He choked up immediately upon seeing the staff who excitedly waved streamers while “Celebrate” by the Kool & The Gang blasted over the school loudspeaker.

“I am blessed. You have really touched my heart,” said Jake. “This is a job that I love doing.

All I really ever wanted is to help someone daily. I look forward to being woken up by the Lord to come here and do my challenges.”

Jake says being a custodian is the only job he's ever truly loved. He tried retiring once but didn't care for it.

"There's a difference in doing a job for pay and

PHOTO PROVIDED

EPS Superintendent Bret Towne congratulates Jake Harris.

doing it for gratification. This is a joy. I get up every morning and think, 'It's time for work'" he remarked enthusiastically. "Regardless of what challenges come up, to be able to handle the challenges to the best of my ability makes my day."

Quadruple bypass a few years ago forced Jake to slow down for a bit. While he was recuperating, he thought about what he was missing at Northern Hills. "It was very difficult to be away from work," he said.

Edmond Schools’ Custodial Supervisor Rusty Matlock says Jake is the best example of a leader and a team player.

"At 81 years of age, he doesn't ask his colleagues to do anything he can't do," said Matlock.

"He leads with authority and respect."

Page 6 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

(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.)

April 12 Micah Philip Kelsay, 31 of Oklahoma City. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer, possession of drug paraphernalia and two counts of possession of CDS. Dowel J. Smith, 73 of Edmond.

Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and operate (DUI or APC) vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Gregory Steede Ferguson, 41 of Edmond. Possession of firearm after conviction of a felony, possession of drug paraphernalia and three counts of possession of CDS. Lyndsay Brook Adams, 22 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

April 13 Anthony Robert Mayfield, 57 of Guthrie. Operating a motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license and operating a motor vehicle with im-

proper equipment.

Kosi Mawueno Agblenyo, 41 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Chantel Ashley-Deshea Fraizer, 28 of Oklahoma City. Carrying a harmful weapon, public intoxication and trespassing after being warned.

April 14 Earnest Jermaine Coffey, 23 of Del City. Petit larceny shoplifting, false representation to an officer and non-assault resisting an officer.

Chandler Allen Smith, 21 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Shawn Douglas Ashworth, 25 of Edmond. Speeding (16-20 mph over) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Christian Lynne Smith, 25 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) uttering any forged, counterfeit, altered instrument or counterfeit gold/silver coin.

April 15 Garrett Addison Garner, 31 of Oklahoma City. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol and operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Michael Angelo Smith, 32 homeless. Malicious injury or destruction of property.

April 16 Kristy Lynn Guinn, 32 of Guthrie.

Transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol and operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Charlotte Elizabeth Dent, 20 of Edmond. (Anything other than alcohol) operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Jabrianna Moniyah Drew, 19 of Oklahoma City. Petit larceny.

Syntashia Marie Parker, 21 of Oklahoma City. Possession of marijuana and petit larceny.

April 17 Bailey Thomas White, 21 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Jennifer Deanne Effinger, 37 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of possession of CDS, two misdemeanor warrants, false personation of another and possession of drug paraphernalia.

David Lewis McDowell, 58 of Forest Park, Okla. Three misdemeanor warrants, transporting open container of alcoholic beverage, expired

tag of over three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Robert Keith Peck, 32 of Tulsa.

Felony warrant, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of CDS and (anything other than alcohol) operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

April 18 Brandy Patrick Rocky, 36 homeless. Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

Michael Trent Mellard, 22 of Edmond. (Anything other than alcohol) operate (DUI or APC) motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Tanner Sage Ashley, 22 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Rickey Ferrel McKenzie, 37 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Lavender Dawn Padgett, 30 of Oklahoma City. Obstruction of a police officer, public intoxication and assault and battery (a felony) on a police officer or correctional staff.

Casey James Coplen, 40 of Jones, Okla. Felony warrant and failure to appear.

Obituary Notices Robert Allen Thomas Robert Allen Thomas was born September 24, 1937, and passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on April 22, 2021.

Born to John and Lois Thomas, Bob was a third-generation settler of Edmond and an Edmond boy through and through.

He attended Clegern Elementary and Edmond High School. He was class President his Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior years, and graduated EHS in 1955. He then attended Central State College where he was the Student Senate President his Senior year. He graduated in 1959 with a degree in Journalism.

While completing his student teaching at John Marshall High School in Oklahoma City, Bob met his soon-to-be lifelong partner, Kathleen Patterson. Following her graduation, a wonderful sixty-one-year love story was born! Bob married the love of his life at Linwood Methodist Church in Oklahoma City on November 28, 1959.

Bob began his career as a licensed realtor before joining Mutual Federal Savings and Loan in 1963. He contributed in a variety of ways, but enjoyed human resources the most because it involved helping people. Because of Bob’s background and engaging manner, he was then named the Mutuals Manager at the new Remington Park Racetrack in 1988. Following retirement, Bob focused on managing the family business until his passing.

Bob loved people, enjoyed community service, and was an avid sports fan. He served eight years in the 45th Infantry National Guard; was a former President of Edmond Rotary and the UCO Alumni Association; and was recognized as a UCO Distinguished Former Student in 1974. Bob served as an Elder at Southern Hills Christian Church and Elder Emeritus at First Christian Church Edmond. Over the years, Bob was routinely seen in the stands of a UCO basketball or football game – regardless of the setting, Bob gathered his energy visiting and loving people.

Another of Bob’s passions was Southwestern Art. This passion was born from his love of Ruidoso, New Mexico, which he called his “happy place.” Bob and Kathy have been avid collectors for many years, and Bob served on the Edmond Visual Arts Council (EVAC) — playing a central role in much of the public art Edmond citizens enjoy today.

Bob was also a docent at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum where he enjoyed sharing his in-depth knowledge of the artists and their pieces.

Those who met and knew Bob enjoyed his bright, warm smile and kind, gentle manner. He never met a stranger, loved a good and bad pun, told stories, sang ditties, and was the best whistler in town. He had a deep and constant love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He found joy in his garden, watering his plants, feeding his birds, and driving Kathy around town with their little dog, Cooper. Their favorite restaurants around Edmond knew him by name and had his favorite meals ready without even ordering. He will be missed at Cafe Icon, Alvarado’s, Fish City and Charleston’s.

Bob was proceeded in death by his parents and sister, Joan Thomas. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, and his three children: Terri Turner; Robbi Kinnaird and husband, Scott; and Allen Thomas and wife, Chele. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Michele Koopman and husband, Chris; Caitlyn Deason and husband, Jared; Kelsi Thomas; Beth Anne Kinnaird and fiancé, Alan; Jack Kinnaird; Logan Turner; and Theo Kinnaird.

Bob also had five wonderful great-grandchildren: Calvin Koopman, Rylan Deason, Bryce Deason, Adam Deason, and Lucas Thomas. He is also survived by his sister, Jan Boyington, and husband Don, as well as many nieces, nephews, and Thomas, Griffin, and McGill cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held for close friends and family on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 1:00p at First Christian Church Edmond. A live streaming link will be available on the Matthews Funeral Home Website prior to the service. Contributions in his honor can be made to Breakfast on Boulevard at First Christian Church or Good Shepherd Hospice, who took loving care of Bob in his final days.”

Engagement, and Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.

The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.

Marshall Groom Marshall THAD Groom, our beloved son, brother, uncle, husband and friend, went to our Lord on April 18, 2021, following a hard-fought battle and lengthy illness. Thad lived his life with joy and enthusiasm and shared that remarkable spark with family and friends until his last moments.

Thad was born on September 16, 1960, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma as the fourth child and only son to Sidney M. Groom, Jr. and Thadda Hutchison Groom. Sid, a lawyer for Mobil Oil Corporation at the time, and Thadda moved with Thad and his three older sisters to an acreage in Fisher Hills in Edmond, Oklahoma in 1960. The community was the perfect place for a young, rambunctious boy to grow.

He shared a great love for the outdoors riding horses, playing golf, sailing on Lake Hefner and was active in Scouting, band and many other pursuits until his college years. The Grooms added beloved dogs and horses to their family and Thad began his life-long devotion to his four-legged friends. Thad was shaped by a kind mother, enthusiastic father, and three great friendships with his older sisters.

Thad graduated from Edmond Memorial High School in 1978 and headed to Oklahoma State University...he loved his Cowboys! Eventually following in his father’s footsteps, Thad began the practice of law after graduating from Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1985. He practiced for more than a decade with McKinney, Stringer, & Webster, PC in Oklahoma City before opening his own law office in Oklahoma City, and later Edmond, doing business as The Groom Law Firm. In his more than 30 years as an attorney, Thad became a well-known and respected legal practitioner, particularly in the area of worker’s compensation and insurance defense.

Thad thoroughly enjoyed his career and the many other passions it allowed him to pursue. At different points in his life, Thad could be called an avid tennis player, hunter, sailor, horseman, dog trainer, grill master and golfer. He made trips around the world to hunt and sail, including captaining multiple sea voyages around the British Virgin Islands and also Greece. Thad always had a giving and joyous spirit, and he loved nothing more than sharing his time and passions with friends and teaching his many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews about what he loved. He was happiest when he could give something of himself and help others. Thad loved his family and his family loved him. He brought smiles and energy to every family gathering, and he provided a steady source of support, encouragement and advice as an uncle, brother, son and husband.

In more recent years, Thad found and renewed his Christian faith and was a passionate advocate of AA. Thad was preceded in death and welcomed to his everlasting home by his father Sid M. Groom, Jr. and his oldest sister Cynthia Vogler-Henry. He is survived by mother Thadda Hutchison Groom, of Edmond, sisters (and their husbands), Susan and Bob O’Neal of Dallas, Texas and Terra and Jim Conlin of Edmond, Oklahoma, seven nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, Sunni Groom and stepson Christopher, and dear friend and former spouse, Liz Groom, who lovingly cared for him in the last weeks of his life. He will be missed by so many wonderful friends, and by his beloved English Setter Daisie. We all adored him.

A memorial service was held at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel. Special appreciation and heartfelt thanks to the caring, wonderful doctors and staff in the I.C.U. at Integris Baptist Hospital in Oklahoma City. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to support the Edmond AA chapter, 3130 S Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73013, or the First Christian Church of Edmond, PO Box 3548, Edmond, OK 73083.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 7

Sample of pieces for the 5x5 Show & Sale.

Photo by Savan-

Annual 5x5 show & sale returns for FAI patrons The annual and highly anticipated 5x5 Art Show and Sale returns Thursday, May 6 at 5 p.m. at Edmond Fine Arts Institute presented by T-Mobile.

This show features more than 150 one-of-a-kind 5x5 canvases created by artists, both local and statewide. All pieces are for sale for $55 each. Proceeds from the event fund the Art in Schools Program and Student Scholarships at Edmond Fine Arts Institute. FAI is located at 27 E Edwards, in Edmond, and will accept cash, check or card, at the event. It is recommended that attendees arrive before 5 p.m. to secure their pick of these highly sought-after, small works.

On Thursday, May 6th well-known

Edmond abstract artist, Brad McNeill, will have his gallery opening in the Art Gallery at FAI and local Edmond musician Nick Massey will be performing. Additionally, a special performance by the Edmond Youth Chorus will take place at 6:00 p.m.

After experiencing the 5x5 Show & Sale and all that Edmond Fine Arts has to offer check out Edmond VIBES, the free open-air art walk event that takes place on Broadway, just right around the corner from Fine Arts Institute. Featuring roughly 40 visual artists and 11 performing artists in and outside of participating businesses, Downtown Edmond will be full of good VIBES for all ages to enjoy!

Some extra protection given those looking at student loans Oklahoma student lenders are a governor’s signature away from having increased protection from predatory lending practices after the House passed the Student Borrower’s Bill of Rights on Wednesday.

The Student Borrower’s Bill of Rights (Senate Bill 261), authored by Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa and Sen. John Michael Montgomery, RLawton, seeks to establish for Oklahoma student loan borrowers basic, common-sense state-level protections when working with student loan servicers.

“The Student Borrower’s Bill of Rights is about ensuring that students, often young inexperienced borrowers, are protected from nefarious lenders,” Provenzano said. “It should be noted that when people know they are protected, there is potential gain for responsible lenders through increased consumer confidence.”

Experian, a consumer credit report-

ing company, reported that Oklahoma’s average student loan debt rose from $31,931 in 2019 to $34,494 in 2020 - an eight percent increase.

“There is a movement in state legislatures, and among policymakers across the country, to curb the expanding cost of student loans and crackdown on vulturous lending practices,” Provenzano said. “Tonight, we unanimously joined that movement. I appreciate my colleagues’ dedication to protecting student borrowers, and I look forward to this legislation becoming law.”

SB261 is now eligible to be signed into law by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

Page 8 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Efforts ongoing to fight distracted driving The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and StopDistractions.org are teaming up to reinforce the critical role of equitable enforcement in effectively combating distracted driving.

The two organizations are calling on states to implement a comprehensive strategy that includes high visibility enforcement of primary texting and hand-held cellphone bans, coupled with extensive public outreach that explains how distraction takes a driver’s eyes and mind off the road and puts others – especially people outside vehicles – at risk.

“At any given moment during the day in the United States, nearly a half a million drivers are distracted behind the wheel,” said GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins. “It’s a dangerous and deadly epidemic that is responsible for eight to ten percent of all fatal crashes, a statistic that has varied little in the past seven years. This problem demands a broad approach including engineering, technology advancements, education and equitable enforcement of strong laws.”

Crashes caused by distracted driving killed 3,142 people in the United States in 2019 – up 10% from the year before. With overall traffic fatalities surging in the first nine months of 2020 and evidence pointing to increased distracted driving during the COVID-19 pandemic, those numbers could climb even higher.

During April, many states are participating in na-

tional high visibility enforcement and public awareness campaigns such as “U Drive. U Text. U Pay,” which are shown to prompt positive behavior change. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration demonstration projects conducted in the Sacramento Valley region of California and across Delaware found that observed driver use of handheld cellphones dropped by one-third following increased police enforcement of distracted driving laws and increased awareness of distracted driving using radio advertisements, news stories and other media.

GHSA joins with StopDistractions.org, which was founded by Jennifer Smith, one of the nation’s preeminent road safety advocates. Smith lost her mother in a distracted driving crash in 2008, when a driver talking on a cellphone ran a red light. She has turned her unimaginable loss into action and has helped lead efforts in numerous states to strengthen distracted driving laws.

“Some state distracted driving laws are years old and have not kept pace with how rapidly this technology has evolved,” said Smith. “StopDistractions.org has been instrumental in modernizing state policy, as well as promoting fair and equitable enforcement of these laws by state and local police.”

Nearly every state has passed some sort of statewide law against distracted driving, but since

July 2018, nine states have adopted new handsfree distracted driving laws that account for new technology and clearly state when and how a driver can or cannot use an electronic device behind the wheel. Currently, 24 states and the District of Columbia (D.C.) ban handheld cellphone use, while 48 states and D.C. ban texting while driving. No state completely bans cellphone use – including hands-free operations – for all drivers, but 37 states and D.C. prohibit all cellphone use by novice drivers, and 23 states and D.C. ban it for school bus drivers.

In two states, Virginia and Massachusetts, improvements to distracted driving laws also included additional protections to promote equitable enforcement, such as data collection and reporting requirements on traffic stops. In addition, the National Council of Insurance Legislators, a bipartisan organization of state policymakers, recently unanimously adopted a model state distracted driving law that includes traffic stop data collection provisions and safeguards against unreasonable searches.

“Anyone driving, walking or biking in America today sees motorist distraction all around them and recognizes that addressing it will be a critical part of both reversing the current surge in pedestrian fatalities and the push to achieve zero traffic deaths,” said Adkins.

Law protects motorists under siege during riots Gov. Stitt last week signed into law a bill that will protect motorists fleeing a riot from criminal and civil liability.

House Bill 1674 by Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, creates a new section of law that protects motor vehicle operators fleeing a riot under a reasonable belief their actions are necessary to protect them from serious injury or death. It also updates language in statute relating to those who are convicted of illegal activity during the course of riots.

“Last summer, we saw a number of riots both here in Oklahoma and nationwide,” West said. “On the day this bill was signed into law, we even had an outburst in the House of Representatives. That thankfully was resolved quickly and without violence, but it illustrates that we are a nation governed by laws. I certainly support the right to peacefully protest and assemble.who are simply trying to move freely. This law gives clarity to those motorists that they are in fact within their rights to seek safety.”

Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, authored the bill in the Senate and carried it through that chamber.

“This bill is meant to protect individuals and families who find themselves trapped in a frightening and dangerous situation and are simply trying to protect themselves,” he said.

HB 1674 adds that every person unlawfully obstructing the normal use

‘I will not, however, endorse rioters that spill onto city or state streets, blocking traffic and even harming property of vehicle operators.’

--- Rep. Kevin West of any public street, highway or road within this state by impeding, hindering or restraining motor vehicle traffic or passage thereon, by standing or approaching motor vehicles thereon, or by endangering the safe movement of motor vehicles or pedestrians traveling thereon shall, upon conviction, be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in the county jail for a term not exceeding one year, or by a fine of not less than $100 and not exceeding $5,000, or by both such fine and imprisonment. In addition, the person shall be liable for all damages to person or property by reason of the same. As used in this paragraph, "obstruct" means to render impassable or to render passage unreasonably inconvenient or hazardous.

The measure also addresses organizations found to have conspired with persons found guilty of committing crimes under rioting statutes. Those organizations shall be fined 10 times the amount authorized by the appropriate provision.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 9

PHOTO PROVIDED

New officers: Front row: Bev Hanna-Fedde - educationals; Jeannette Smith secretary and philanthropic; Jacci Gantz - president and publicity; Laura Howells - vice-president; Back row: Linda Coniglio - parliamentarian, Veronica McCain - ways and means; Billye Putnam - treasurer. Not pictured: Shirley Moore, co-educationals.

ESA installs new officers Sylvia Och, Guthrie’s Kappa Theta member installed new officers for the Edmond Gamma Zeta chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha at Interurban restaurant. The installation ceremony centered around building a rock foundation of kindness and generosity for one’s community.

Epsilon Sigma Alpha is an international service organization. Edmond’s Gamma Zeta chapter works with local charities like UR Special,

No Boundaries, Boys’ Ranch Town, Free to Live, Salvation Army, and Coffee Creek Riding Stables. State projects are Oklahoma School for the Deaf in Sulphur, Oklahoma and Oklahoma School for the Blind in Muskogee, Oklahoma. The national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To volunteer with these energetic ladies and give back to the community, call Jacci Gantz at 405-9225954.

State lawmakers cite overreach by the feds A bill establishing an intra-branch legal process to guard against federal overreach in Oklahoma passed the House last week.

House Bill 1237, by House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, and Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, is similar to House Bill 1236 passed through the House earlier this session. It establishes a constitutional process to exercise Oklahoma’s authorities as a state under the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution by reviewing federal actions for constitutionality and seeking judicial rulings to block unconstitutional federal actions from taking effect in Oklahoma. It passed 79-18.

Upon recommendation from the Legislature, the executive branch, through the attorney general, could review any federal executive order, federal agency rule or federal legislative action for constitutionality and seek judicial branch intervention when necessary to prevent unconstitutional federal overreach in Oklahoma.

“Nearly the entire House coauthored an idea I brought forward in House Bill 1236 earlier this session to protect Oklahomans from federal actions that encroach on their rights,” said McBride. “I’m proud the House again stepped up to pass another strong measure after the Senate leader amended HB 1236 into a toothless paperweight. HB 1237 has compromise language addressing all concerns that we look forward to the Senate taking up in short order.”

Amendments to HB 1236 by Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, substantially limited the scope of issues that could be reviewed and removed most in-

volvement by the Legislature in the process. Additionally, the amendments would call for the creation of a new government oversight entity and require an additional $10 million a year to be appropriated for the Oklahoma Attorney General’s office.

HB 1237 maintains the tenets of the initial version of HB 1236 and eliminates any constitutionality concerns. The bill includes compromise language that clarifies the role of the courts in the process by providing that legislative findings of unconstitutionality will need court affirmation.

Additionally, it creates no new government bureaucracy and should have no fiscal impact.

“It is the duty of the states to secure the rights of their citizens,” said Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon, chairman of the House States’ Rights Committee. “Here in Oklahoma, the House is making sure those rights are protected by putting the federal government on notice that we intend to maintain the separation of powers prescribed in the Tenth Amendment.”

The House also passed a rule authorizing it to send additional measures on this topic to the Senate should it be necessary.

“There is nothing unconstitutional about exercising constitutional rights,” McCall said. “The House will continue standing up for Oklahomans until the job is done.”

Page 10 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Beware of VHS felonies

By Steve Gust Editor Okay I guess I'm a pretty law-andorder kind of guy.

Let sometimes the justice system needs to step back a bit and question things.

I have that opinion after seeing a Steve Gust story over the weekend about a lady who was charged with a felony embezzlement charge. Her crime? It was 22 years ago when she allegedly rented a VHS movie from a video store. It was entitled "Sabrina the Teenage Witch."

The woman claimed she never rented it and blamed it one of the young daughters of a man she was seeing at the time.

To their credit the Cleveland County prosecutors aren't going to proceed with the matter. But still the lady has been harmed. She reports suddenly losing jobs over the years. What would happen is an

employer would run a background check and stopped when they saw a charge of "felony embezzlement,."

Who knew one Sabrina VHS movie had the power of felony.

I'm all for justice, but let's make sure common sense enters the equation as well.

---I owe the readers and Sen. Lankford an apology. Last week I put the wrong byline on Sen. Lankford's column about opposing public funding of Planned Parenthood.

Sorry about that Senator.

---And I may be the last one to know this but the United States Postal website has an interesting feature. It's called "informed Delivery." It shows you photos of the envelopes you are supposed to receive in the mail. What's neat is if that piece of mail doesn't arrive, you check a box on the photo to let postal people know it didn't arrived. Pretty nifty little feature.

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

Governor makes sure all vehicles help fund roads The governor last week approved legislation that will ensure all vehicles – fuel-powered and electric – that use Oklahoma’s state highways are equally contributing to the cost of maintaining the infrastructure.

Rep. Kyle Hilbert, RBristow, and Sen. Zack Taylor, R-Seminole, were the principal authors of House Bill 2234, The Driving on Road Infrastructure with Vehicles of Electricity (DRIVE) Act of 2021.

“With this legislation, we’re getting ahead of the curve and coming up with creative ways to make sure electric or battery-powered vehicle drivers pay the same as traditional fuel-powered

motorists to travel on our state roads,” Hilbert said. “This legislation drew together many stakeholders who helped us to help us determine a fair method for all consumers to support infrastructure funding, and I’m grateful for their input.”

Hilbert explained that other states are addressing this topic as well, with some already passing laws relating to the electric vehicle industry.

He said Oklahoma’s is among the most equitable.

“The DRIVE Act is a fair and equitable way to continue providing critical funding for our state’s transportation infrastructure, especially with the ever-increasing

popularity of electric vehicles,” Taylor said. “I want to thank Representative Hilbert for filing this important bill to ensure all vehicles utilizing our state roadways and bridges contribute to the cost of maintaining our transportation system.”

After signing the measure, Gov. Kevin Stitt issued the following statement, “I congratulate Rep. Hilbert and Sen. Taylor for getting the DRIVE Act across the finish line and ensuring a level playing field for all drivers as well as protecting future funding for Oklahoma’s roads and bridges.”

HB 2234 enacts a three-cent tax per kilowatt hour to charge an electric vehicle (EV) at a public for-profit charging station – capturing funding from out-ofstate drivers. There would be no tax for EVs that charge at home. The measure would charge registration fees for EVs based on the vehicle’s weight and type and would provide an income tax credit to Oklahomans for charging taxes paid at a charging station, not to exceed the EV registration fee. The bill combined with SB600 will exempt low-voltage and free charging stations from charging the tax.

The revenues from this bill will be placed into the Driving on Road Infrastructure with Vehicles of Electricity (DRIVE) Fund, which will supplement the state’s current ROADS Fund. The ROADS fund has been instrumental in taking Oklahoma from bottom ten to top ten in the country in bridge conditions.

Lankford seeks answers on COVID relief spending

By Sen. James Lankford Senator James Lankford (R-OK) led Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) in a letter to Shalanda Young, Acting Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) asking for details on how the nearly $6 trillion in COVID-19 funding is being spent. The SenaLankford tors asked specifically about funding no longer protected by the Hyde Amendment.

During the budget debate for the Democrats’ reconciliation bill, Lankford introduced an amendment to uphold Hyde protections that ban taxpayer dollars from paying for abortions. He expressed deep disappointment in Democrats’ desire to force Americans to pay for abortions during a HSGAC business meeting to consider Ms. Young’s nomination.

The Senators wrote, “Over the past year, Congress has passed nearly $6 trillion dollars in response to the COVID-19 pandemic through five bipartisan bills that received at least 90 votes in the Senate and one reconciliation bill that passed without any Republican support in either chamber.”

They continued, “In order for this money to have the impact Congress intended, it is imperative that every dollar is used to help Americans harmed by the pandemic. As members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, it is our responsibility to ensure that federal agencies are operating effectively and efficiently as they carry out the laws passed by Congress.”

You can read the full letter HERE or below: Dear Ms. Young: Over the past year, Congress has passed nearly $6

trillion dollars in response to the COVID-19 pandemic through five bi-partisan bills that received at least 90 votes in the Senate and one reconciliation bill that passed without any Republican support in either chamber. In order for this money to have the impact Congress intended, it is imperative that every dollar is used to help Americans harmed by the pandemic. As members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, it is our responsibility to ensure that federal agencies are operating effectively and efficiently as they carry out the laws passed by Congress.

Since March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans. The pandemic and subsequent lock-downs and restrictions caused mass unemployment, permanently closed many small businesses, prevented children from attending school in person, and pushed the limits of our health care system. In response, Congress created the Paycheck Protection Program to help small businesses, provided billions of dollars for K-12 education to get kids back in school, provided billions more for the development and distribution of a vaccine, and sent stimulus checks directly to millions of Americans.

Most of these spending bills were designed to provide targeted relief in order to shorten the pandemic and its effects, save American lives and American jobs, and allow us to return to normal life. To ensure these funds are being spent in accordance with those goals, please provide the following by May 10, 2021: 1.A complete list of each grant program funded by each agency and used to distribute funds authorized by any of the six COVID-19 response bills.

2. A complete list of each individual grant recipient over $1 million and the total amount received to date.

3 For grants funding specific programs:

a. The name of the program funded. b. The goal of the funding program. c. The metrics used to track progress toward that goal.

4 For grants intended to promote equity: a. The name of the program. b. The name of the recipient or sub-recipient. c. The equitable goal intended to be achieved. d. The metrics used to measure the success of that goal.

5. The total amount of money provided to each agency through any of six COVID-19 response bills. a. The amount of money in each program that has been allocated. b. The amount of money allocated for administrative costs. c. The amount of money in each program that is still available as of the date of this letter.

6. The amount of money provided to each agency through any of the six COVID-19 response bills for use in developing and purchasing the vaccine. a. The amount of money for this purpose that has been allocated. b. The amount of money for this purpose that is still available as of the date of this letter.

7. The amount of money provided to each agency through any of the six COVID-19 response bills for use in distributing and administering the vaccine. a. The amount of money for this purpose that has been allocated. b. The amount of money for this purpose that is still available as of the date of this letter.

8. The amount of money provided to each agency through any of the six COVID-19 response bills for use in developing or administering a COVID-19 test.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 11

Edmond North’s StellarXplorers team is recognized as one of the best in the world.

North’s StellarXplorers excel in high-tech competition

By Eriech Tapia The number crunching was out of this world as the Edmond North StellarXplorers team competed in the international competition vying to find the best solution for sending a satellite into space.

“You are in stiff competition all weekend,” said Aerospace Science Instructor Eric Weingaertner. “It is pure determination.”

The team was selected as one of the top ten teams from 211 worldwide. While none of the top ten teams ultimately found the best solution, being selected was an honor in itself.

“It is really cool to have these skills in high school,” said senior Alex Loney, who has a desire to study aerospace engineering at Purdue University this fall.

This is the second year for the StellarXplorers program at Edmond North. Additionally, the AFJROTC program has a cybersecurity and aeronautics program along with traditional activities.

“I was much older by the time I got the skills they have at their age,” said Ernie Sanchez, Ed-

mond North AP Physics and Robotics teacher, who helps oversee the program. “We have a special group of students.”

The goal of the competition created by the Air Force Association changes each year but encompasses all aspects of system development and operation with a spacecraft and payload focus.

“You definitely have to have an interest in this,” said Edmond North Senior Michael Gaona, the student Cadet Wing Commander. “It does not get better or much more professional than this.”

StellarXplorers has been at Edmond North for two years and seven years overall.

Major corporations including Lockheed Martin and L3Harris, which see a future workforce in training, sponsor the StellarXplorers competitions.

The first day of the competition is an orientation day where students are given their mission.

The next day they work on the solution. They spent eight hours crunching numbers, working with an online shareable spreadsheet to allow the team members to check each other's work consistently. Then the third day consists of the team cre-

The high tech training and competition requires top concentration.

ating a briefing on how they came to their conclusions.

“Some of the best ideas come from students,” Weingaertner said. “We just need to stop and listen.”

For Sanchez and Weingaertner, teaching life skills to the students like communication, collaboration and how to use a spreadsheet are areas of focus within the program.

The Edmond North AFJROTC program has around 150 students with multiple areas for students to explore their varying interests.

“We try to give the students as many options as possible in the AFJROTC program,” Weingaertner said.

Each year the students also set community and personal goals, including two service projects and raising the average GPA. “It is incredible what these students can do,” Sanchez said.

To learn more about the AFJROTC programs at Edmond North go to www.north.edmondschools.net.

Page 12 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Maya Cook

Anthony Cooper

Madelynn Dancer

Ryan Harrel

Joseph Jeong

UCO names Spring Class Marshals The University of Central Oklahoma has named five students as Class Marshals of their respective colleges for the spring 2021 semester, recognizing them for their academic excellence.

Students earn the title of Class Marshal for achieving the highest academic records within their colleges during their time at Central.

Maya Cook is a musical theatre major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Fine Arts and Design and graduate of Santa Fe High School in Edmond.

Cook is a member of the UCO Wesley Campus Ministry and The Accidentals, Central’s a cappella group. In addition to earning a place on the President’s Honor Roll, Cook received the Choctaw Higher Education Scholarship, a music outreach scholarship and various other scholarships from the College of Fine Arts and Design.

“My experience at UCO has been absolutely incredible,” Cook said. “The campus truly feels like home. Every class, every club, every event has made me feel like I belong here. I will look back on my time here fondly. I am proud to say that I am graduating from UCO.” Following graduation, Cook plans to teach children’s voice lessons, direct musical theater shows for kids and continue performing.

Anthony Cooper is an English – creative writing major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Liberal Arts. A graduate of Calallen High School in Corpus Christi, Texas, and a President’s Honor Roll recipient, Cooper plans to teach high school. Aside from teaching and raising his two children, he also hopes to finish his first novel and seek publication, hoping to eventually pursue a master’s degree in secondary education.

“UCO is a wonderful university, and I am grateful for my opportunity to study at this institution,” Cooper said.

“I had the luxury of gaining mentorship and

guidance from a handful of professors that motivated me to succeed and helped me prepare for a future in academics. One day, I hope to help reshape our nation’s public education system.”

Madelynn Dancer is a business administration – legal studies major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Business. A Soper, Okla., native, Dancer is a member of the President’s Leadership Council, the UCO Pre-Law Society, 2BLeaders and the Student Alumni Association and served as a University Suites resident assistant. In addition to receiving several scholarships from the UCO Foundation, she was awarded the Outstanding Freshman and Outstanding Junior Student Leader Awards, 2019 Resident Assistant Rookie of the Year and 2020 Resident Assistant of the Year.

“I was nervous coming from a small town to a bigger university, but UCO quickly became my home! I am thankful for the fantastic education I received here and the opportunities I experienced to grow as a leader,” Dancer said.

Following graduation, Dancer will pursue a legal degree with an emphasis on American Indian law at the University of Oklahoma College of Law. She plans to practice Native American law, to serve her tribe, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, as well as corporate law.

Ryan Harrel is a kinesiology – exercise/fitness management major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Education and Professional Studies. A graduate of Cashion High School in Cashion, Okla., Harrel is an outfielder for UCO Baseball and a member of the Student-Athlete Academic Committee and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

He also received the Dr. Donna Cobb Scholarship in Exercise and Fitness Management, UCO Transfer Student Scholarship, the Mike Ciskowski 4.0 GPA Award and the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) Conference Aca-

demic Excellence Award.

“I have enjoyed my time at UCO. It has been a great institution for me to further my education, grow as a person and create lifelong relationships,” Harrel said.

After graduating, Harrel hopes to get a job as a strength and conditioning coach in professional baseball.

Joseph Jeong is a biology – biomedical sciences major with a 4.0 GPA in the College of Mathematics and Science. During his time at Central, Jeong, a Seoul, South Korea, native, served as vice president of the Pre-medicine and Health Professions Club and received Global Education Award and UCO Foundation scholarships.

“The dedication and mentorship of the professors were what really helped me grow at UCO. Not only do they take time out of their busy schedule to help their students, but they also provide extensive research opportunities that cannot easily be found elsewhere,” Jeong said.

“It was also a joy to be a part of a student body that promotes cooperation and not competition.

Overall, my time at UCO helped me grow as a well-rounded student and person.”

Following graduation, Jeong plans to attend medical school at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine to become a physician. His goal is to serve on medical mission trips around the world, to destinations where there is a dire need for medicine.

First presented in 1994, the Class Marshal title has become a proud Central tradition. Each of the honorees will wear a bronze graduation gown and a special stole during the spring commencement ceremonies, signifying the highest degree of academic excellence.

For more information about the University of Central Oklahoma, visit www.uco.edu.

Broncho women win league golf title

Susana Olivares

BARTLESVILLE – Susana Olivares made two crucial birdies down the stretch to take control of the individual race and put Central Oklahoma back in the team lead as the Bronchos swept top honors at the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Women’s Golf Championships Friday.

UCO ended up winning the team title by one slim stroke over Central Missouri, while Olivares captured the medalist crown by four shots. The Bronchos closed with a 321 to finish the two-day, 54-hole tournament with a 933 total at the 5,921-yard, par-72 Hillcrest Country Club,.

The Mules, who trailed UCO by 14 shots entering the day, fired a finalround 308 in ending at 934. Rogers State was third in the 11-team event at 940, followed by Northeastern State (947) and Missouri Western (977).

Central earned the league’s automatic berth into the NCAA Division II national tournament, which starts with Central Regional play May 3-5 in St. Joseph, Mo. It’s the fourth MIAA crown for the Bronchos, who also won in 2013, ’14 and ’15.

Olivares shot a final-round 77 in finishing with a 223 total to claim the individual title by four shots over Rogers State’s Mariana Flores.

Sydney Roberts was UCO’s only other player to break 80 Friday, carding a 79. Madison O’Dell added an 81, while Emma Shelley shot 84 and Emily Miller 88.

“That was a stressful day,” said 13th-year head coach Michael Bond, who picked up his 30th tournament win with the Bronchos. “Everybody started off pretty good, but then we hit a tough stretch and lost a lot of ground.

“Susana played great the last few holes when we really had to have her and showed just how mentally tough she is. I’m really proud of these girls for what they’ve been able to accomplish so far this season.”

Olivares was steady out of the gate in the final round, reeling off seven straight pars to start the day before hitting a rocky stretch and going sixover on the next six holes.

That left her one shot behind Flores with five holes remaining and it also put UCO second in the team standings, two shots behind Central Missouri.

But Olivares rebounded with a par-birdie-par-birdie stretch – making both birdies on par-4s – to surge in front of a fading Flores and give the Bronchos back the team lead. Olivares bogeyed the par-5 18th, but it didn’t matter.

The freshman standout became Central’s third MIAA individual champion and the first since Marla Souvannasing in 2015. It was UCO’s third tournament win in eight events this spring.

Roberts parred her first six holes of the final round, then was seven-over on the final 12 holes. She made a huge birdie on the par-4 15th hole as UCO overcame its late deficit in the team race.

Roberts ended up seventh in the individual standings at 233, marking her third top-seven finish in four conference tournaments.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 13

OMRF Vice President of Clinical Affairs Judith James, M.D., Ph.D.

Association of American Physicians elects OMRF’s James as a member The Association of American Physicians has elected Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation Vice President of Clinical Affairs Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., as a member.

James, an immunologist and board-certified rheumatologist, leads OMRF’s Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program. The honor recognizes her excellence in the pursuit of medical knowledge and the advancement of clinical science in her 27 years as a physician-scientist.

A graduate of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and a native of Pond Creek, Oklahoma, James joined OMRF’s scientific staff in 1994. Since then, she has gained international recognition for her work in predicting and preventing lupus, a devastating autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system becomes unbalanced.

“Dr. Judith James is one of the most outstanding physician-scientists of her generation,” said University of Colorado Denver Head of Rheumatology V. Michael Holers, M.D., who nominated James for the honor. “She has performed groundbreaking research to help us understand how autoimmune diseases develop and can be treated using innovative new strategies.”

James was part of the team of investigators who first demonstrated the presence of lupus autoantibodies in the blood before clinical symptoms of the disease. Her research has resulted in OMRF’s designation as a National Institutes of Health Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, one of only 10 nationwide.

“Dr. James is a true leader in medical research,” said OMRF President Stephen M. Prescott, M.D.

“She has dedicated her life to cracking the code of some of the most puzzling diseases of our time.

This honor recognizes the impact she has made both in the laboratory and in the lives of patients around the world.”

James has also begun studying Covid-19 and autoimmunity. She is investigating why the virus seems to strike tribal populations disproportionately and whether it may lead to autoimmune conditions.

In addition to her scientific accomplishments, James has excelled as a mentor for students and postdoctoral fellows, with a particular emphasis on training American Indian and rural students for careers in medicine, biomedical research and related fields.

“My focus is on improving the lives of people living with autoimmune diseases, and none of it would be possible without our amazing patients and study participants,” said James. “This recognition from the AAP is truly a nod to the work accomplished by my wonderful research team that includes many investigators, research staff, analytic personnel, clinicians, clinical personnel and trainees.”

James joins eight other Oklahoma physicians — including OMRF’s Prescott and OMRF Vice President of Research Rodger McEver, M.D. — as members of the association.

The AAP’s mission is to inspire physician-led research across all fields of science related to medicine and health and to build a community of physician-scientists supporting objective science and evidence as foundations for improving patient care.

Page 14 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of ‘Mortal Kombat’

Performances, dialogue a tad ‘cheesy’

By George Gust "Mortal Kombat," follows an MMA fighter named Cole Young (Lewis Tan), who is unknowingly an ancestor of an ancient warrior bloodline that has fought for centuries in a mystical high stakes fight tournament that decides the fate of the universe. Soon, he finds himself training to stand with Earth's greatest champions against the enemies of Outworld who intend to enslave humanity.

“Mortal Kombat” was The polarizing violent video game of the 1990s, featuring realistic looking characters who engage in gruesome fighting and over-thetop violent finishing moves that made parents across the country recoil in shock. The popularity and controversy of the game series spawned a 1993 United States Senate hearing on video game violence as well as a campy 1995 film adaptation. This 2021 version of “Mortal Kombat” attempts to bring the cavalcade of recognizable characters to the big screen while treating them mostly with a deadly serious tone to mixed results.

“Mortal Kombat” can’t decide what kind of movie it wants to be. The opening sequence is directed and acted with such an artful style, taking its time to establish emotional connections. However, as the story continues to add more and more characters and explain more and more Mortal Kombat lore, the serious

and compelling tone goes by the wayside. So much of the rote video game storyline feels rushed and shoehorned into the movie with each of the constant parade of new characters needing to say their name out loud like its their first day in Kombat school to keep the audience up to speed. And much of the dialogue ends up sounding cheesy and unearned with classic in-game phrases like “flawless victory” or “finish him” coming out of no where at the end of random conflicts.

The performances in “Mortal Kombat” range from stoically serious to painfully cheesy comedy. Most of the actors are given uninspired arcs that only serve the purpose of bringing that recognizable character to the story. However, there were a handful of performances that had just the right amount of the campy

theatricality and humorous tone you would expect from an outlandish video game adaptation. Josh Lawson as the motor-mouth mercenary, Kano, stuck out for his brash attitude and constant one-liners, almost to the point where you’d wish they had reigned in some of the more try-hard quips. And the main conflict throughout the film between Joe Taslim as SubZero and Hiroyuki Sanada as Scorpion was effective with each of their performances imparting the right mix of over-the-top theatricality to give their fights weight and stakes for the story.

Overall, most of the story and performances of “Mortal Kombat” register at a zero, save for the occasional compelling sequence, but the amount of gore and recognizable video game lore may be enough to satisfy hardcore fans of the franchise in a ‘so bad it’s entertaining’ kind of movie, but not much more for general audiences.

“Mortal Kombat” is rated R for strong bloody violence and language throughout, and some crude references. Now in theaters and streaming on HBO Max for a limited time.

1.9 out of 5 stars.

To comment on this film review, or any other movie review, please e-mail George at gust.george@gmail.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

The 2021 reimagining of the massively successful video game franchise ‘Mortal Kombat’ will leave non video game fans cold with an uninspired exercise of video game action and brutality.

Pro-gun measure advances Answers appearing on Page 19

A bill creating the “Second Amendment Sanctuary State Act” passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives last week.

Senate Bill 631, authored by Rep. Sean Roberts, R-Hominy, states that any federal, state, county or municipal act, law, executive order, administrative order, court order, rule, policy or regulation ordering the buy-back, confiscation or surrender of firearms, firearm accessories or ammunition from law-abiding citizens of this state shall be considered an infringement on the rights of citizens to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment of the Constitution of the United States and Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution of Oklahoma.

“Senate Bill 631 ensures that the State Legislature will protect the unalienable right of Oklahomans to keep and bear arms as guaranteed to them by the Second Amendment,” said Roberts. “Recent action and rhetoric from the federal government has shown just how important this bill really is.”

SB 631 was authored in the Senate by Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, and passed in that chamber by a vote of 38-8. It passed today in the House by a vote of 78-17 and will now be sent to the governor’s desk for consideration.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: SESAME STREET ACROSS 1. Scarecrow stuffing 6. Observe 9. Kind of ski lift 13. "Fear of Flying" author Jong 14. Madame Tussauds' medium 15. Fervent 16. Never say this?

17. You to are is as thou to ____ 18. Skylit lobbies 19. *It isn't easy "bein' green" for him 21. *First bilingual Sesame Street puppet 23. Flower precursor 24. Rental on the links 25. Rowing prop 28. Banana remnant 30. Besmear 35. Poker variety 37. Away from wind 39. Like helium gas 40. Coconut fiber 41. Like an iPhone 43. Singular of #33 Down 44. Per ____, or yearly 46. Guesstimate phrase, 2 words 47. Raise, as in child 48. Bob Marley's music 50. TV classic "____ Make a Deal" 52. Hi-____ monitor 53. Oscar Wilde's Dorian ____ 55. *Sesame Street's Meryl Sheep 57. *Every starred clue in this puzzle 60. *Self-described as lovable, cute and furry 63. One born to Japanese immigrants 64. Be in the red 66. He had no cause?

68. Thin mountain ridge 69. Local area network 70. Unmanned flyer 71. Hospital statistics unit, pl.

72. NaOH 73. Church assembly

DOWN 1. D.C. V.I.P. 2. "Star ____" 3. Either Gauche or Droite in Paris 4. Like a lemon 5. Beginning of a workout 6. Special law enforcement unit, acr.

7. Elephant's distinguished feature 8. Uncredited actor 9. Lake ____caca, South America 10. *Ernie's roommate 11. Diva's delivery 12. Swedish shag rug 15. "____ your seatbelts" 20. Think tank output 22. Eyeball shape 24. "I can see ____ now the rain has gone..."

25. *Trash can dweller 26. Be sorry for one's wickedness 27. Repenting 29. *He avoids pronouns and speaks in falsetto 31. Gloomy 32. More competent 33. Arm bones

34. *Mama, Papa, Baby and Curly 36. Chemical cure 38. Gaelic tongue 42. Load carrier 45. Crow's cousin 49. Old English for before 51. Arya Stark's Needle and Jedi's Lightsaber, e.g.

54. Lagoon wall 56. Each and all 57. Bog down 58. From a second-hand store 59. Four-legged friends 60. Autry or Wilder 61. Jet black 62. Nevada city 63. Pick up, as in suspect 65. Modus operandi 67. Light-emitting diode

Answers are found on Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 15

Vearl T.

a local saxophonist

PHOTO PROVIDED/ERIECH TAPIA.

VIBES returns to Downtown Edmond May 6 VIBES returns to Downtown Edmond on Thursday, May 6, for the second event of the season with new performing artists, special features and participating businesses for visitors of all ages to experience.

This free monthly, open-air art event, will be held in Downtown Edmond from 5 to 9 p.m., hosted by Edmond Fine Arts Institute. Attendees can anticipate new and returning artists and businesses from the inaugural event in April.

The May VIBES will feature 34 participating businesses, 40 visual artists and more than 11 performing artists along Broadway. A variety of performances will be featured, including Madolynn Hayes, Jane Mays & Minnie Funk Band, Ciara

Brooke, Edgar Cruz and more.

The May VIBES will feature a Sidewalk Chalk Night on the corner of Broadway and Campbell, presented by Oklahoma ER & Hospital. Martin Alavi, Elisha Gallegos, Chandler Domingos, Annie Lovett and Nicole Poole will be creating sidewalk chalk works.

Visual artists and performing artists, will be placed in and outside of participating businesses for attendees to see and hear. All visitors are encouraged to patronize the participating businesses and shop the arts around Downtown.

Starting at 5 p.m., May 6, attendees can also stop by Edmond Fine Arts for the annual 5x5 show and sale. The show features hundreds of beautiful

College of Fine Arts & Design names Weidell its new dean tive service to the The University of dean position, includCentral Oklahoma has ing service as chairpernamed Charleen Weison, assistant dean, dell, M.F.A. as dean of associate dean and inthe College of Fine terim dean.

Arts and Design, effecWeidell’s work in tive June 1. metal has been exhib“Since joining UCO ited and collected on in 2004, Weidell has regional, national and earned the respect of international levels; her colleagues across “Tart Server,” a broad campus for her pasblade silver server, was sionate mentorship of acquired by the Victostudents, her strong ria and Albert Museum advocacy of the arts Charleen Weidell in London. and her collaborative Her work has also been commisand effective leadership style,” said sioned by Dumbarton House in Charlotte Simmons, Ph.D., provost Washington, D.C. and vice president for Academic AfWeidell holds a Bachelor of Arts in fairs. liberal studies and applied design and “I am confident that she has the a Master of Fine Arts in jewelry and commitment, fortitude and demonmetalsmithing, all from San Diego strable record of success to lead the State University.

College of Fine Arts and Design durFor more information about the ing this pivotal time in its history.”

UCO College of Fine Arts and DeWeidell, a nationally renowned sign, as well as a listing of events and jewelry artist and metalsmith, brings performances, visit cfad.uco.edu.

13 consecutive years of administra-

State schedules fraud conference The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is partnering with the Oklahoma Social Security Administration, the Oklahoma Department of Securities, the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, the Oklahoma Banker’s Association and AARP Oklahoma to host the Annual Hoodwinked Fraud Conference. This virtual event begins May 6, 2021. Additional events will follow each Thursday on May 13, 20, 27 and June 3, 10, 17 at 10 a.m.

The Hoodwinked Fraud Conference will offer various fraud-related webinar sessions, from Medicare and healthcare fraud to Social Security scams, relationship scams, cyber scams, investment, banking fraud and securities fraud.

Hoodwinked will educate Oklahomans on the latest white-collar crimes and provide tips for staying safe.

This virtual event will consist of seven educational webinars led by speakers

with diverse areas of expertise such as state agency directors, Medicare professionals and individuals from the fraud prevention fields. This year, the Oklahoma Social Security Administration (SSA) is joining for the first time as Social Security fraud is on the rise. According to Jose Olivero, the Public Affairs Specialist at the SSA, they receive over 35,000 telephone scams reported monthly.

“We are excited to offer our virtual conference again this year and grateful to our partners who’ve come together to help make this possible,” said Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “In this unprecedented time when fraudsters are taking advantage of fear and uncertainty, we are looking to bring our community together and offer resources that will help Oklahomans protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Contact www.oid.ok.gov.

and unique 5”x5” canvases created by artists locally and nationwide, all for sale, first come first serve!

Edmond Fine Arts recommends arriving before 5:00 to secure a spot in line for these highly desired pieces.

For updates, performance schedules, artists, maps and news about VIBES, check out @edmond_vibes on Instagram or visit edmondvibes.org.

VIBES is made possible with support from the City of Edmond, Downtown Edmond Business Association (DEBA), and dedicated community sponsors, including headline sponsor- Mercy Hospital, Chickasaw Community Bank, Edmond Electric, Citizens Bank, Engel & Volkers Duncan Group, The Grant Group, Small Architects and United Production Co.

Page 16 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Scott Munz

Munz to give presentation May 11

History of the Okla. State Fair Scott Munz, Oklahoma State Fair Senior Vice President, will present an evening on The History of the Oklahoma State Fair on Tuesday, May 11 at Castle Falls Venue, 820 N MacArthur at 7 p.m.

The presentation, hosted by WesTen District and Castle Falls Venue, is free but registration is required (https://historicallylocalmay.eventbrite.com) to allow for social distancing.

Light appetizers and a cash bar will be available.

“There is so much history in west Oklahoma City and the Oklahoma State Fair is a big part of that story.

Scott Munz, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Sales for the Oklahoma State Fair, will talk about the history of the Oklahoma State Fair from its beginning in 1889 just five months after the Land Run to present day.” says Robin Jones, WesTen executive director. “Plus, it is a special treat

since the fair has announced their plans to be open this year.”

Munz has been with the Oklahoma State Fair in marketing and sales for over 33 years.

Castle Falls Restaurant & Venue is one of Oklahoma City’s most unique dining experiences.

The castle began as a home in 1945, constructed to replicate a castle in Normandy. Today, as a restaurant and event venue, Castle Falls (www.castlefalls.com) invests in their history and the community surrounding it.

The WesTen District (www.WesTenDistrictOKC.com), with a commitment to improve the quality of life for the residents in the diverse neighborhoods and the hundreds of businesses which are locally-owned, unique, national brands and with a multi-generational legacy. For more information: info@WesTenDistrictOKC.com or 405.256.8033.

State Fair Returns ithis Year

Zukerman Trio

Zukerman Trio will perform tonight at Armstrong Auditorium Armstrong Auditorium welcomes the prodigiously talented chamber ensemble trio, the Zukerman Trio on Thursday, April 29 at 7:30 p.m.

The ensemble is led by two-time Grammy Award-winning Pinchas Zukerman, a supremely gifted violin and viola soloist, conductor and chamber musician who is sought after as a virtuoso world-wide.

For their debut at Armstrong Auditorium, the trio embraces piano trios from both Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky. For more information regarding ticket options, subscriptions or group rates please visit www.ArmstrongAuditorium.org or call 405-285-1010.

A prodigiously talented chamber ensemble trio, the Zukerman Trio is composed of violinist Pinchas Zuker-

man, cellist Amanda Forsyth and pianist Angela Cheng.

With a celebrated career spanning five decades, the two-time Grammy Award-winning Zukerman is a supremely gifted violin and viola soloist, conductor and chamber musician who is sought after as a virtuoso around the world.

As an ensemble, the Zukerman Trio has toured the globe performing at major festivals and venues in Japan, China, Australia, Spain, Italy, France, Hungary, South Africa, Istanbul, Russia and throughout the United States.

For their debut at Armstrong Auditorium, pianist George Li will replace Cheng, and the trio embraces Piano Trios from both Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 17

Official recommends having flood insurance

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready As a resident of Tulsa for the past 25 years, it was devastating to watch our neighbors’ homes destroyed in May 2019. It was emotional because it was not just the building itself they lost, but also the contents. When my boys and I went out to help clean the waterlogged neighborhoods, we found pictures, keepsakes, kids’ drawings and letters from loved ones—all things that can’t be replaced. We are back to April two years later and I want all Oklahomans to ask themselves if they have the necessary insurance coverage to mitigate its consequences.

During the late hours of April 30 and the morning of May 1, 17 tornadoes struck Oklahoma. The storm carried 5 to 6 inches of rainfall. Thousands of Oklahomans were devastated by flooding resulting in more than $31 million in estimated losses. More than 6,000 flood claims were reported. Unfortu-

nately, many residents did not have flood insurance and some of them are still trying to recover today.

As April showers bring May flowers, I’m encouraging Oklahomans to Get Ready now and prepare for the worst. Flooding can cause catastrophic damage, and preparation now will lead to a better recovery later. Here are three important reasons to consider flood insurance today: ---- You Live in Oklahoma Flooding is the number one natural disaster in the United States. While most standard homeowners policies cover tornadoes, hail, and wildfires, they do NOT cover floods. There is at least a 1 in 4 chance of flooding in high-risk areas during a 30-year mortgage.

---- 30-Day Waiting Period It typically takes 30 days for a flood policy to go into effect, so the time to buy is well before a disaster. That is why you need to purchase or renew flood insurance well in advance. Waiting until you see the water rushing is too late. Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance

Program (NFIP) today.

---- Cost of Flooding Flooding can be an emotionally and financially devastating event. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, an inch of water in a home could cause more than $27,000 in damages. About 33% of all flood claims come from outside of high-risk areas. In 2019 nationally, the average flood insurance claim payment was $53,301while the average flood insurance premium payment was $674.

While we cannot prevent another flood from occurring, we can get our state financially prepared for the damage when it hits. Let’s make sure that Oklahomans understand their flood risk. As I always like to remind folks… If it rains where you live, it can flood where you live.

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.

OC, Integris team up The prolonged presence of COVID-19 has exasperated the nursing shortage across the United States, including Oklahoma. To meet this need, INTEGRIS Health partnered with Oklahoma Christian University to educate, train and employ nurses more efficiently through INTEGRIS University.

“Integris University is a modernized college experience, meeting students where they are at while they navigate work and career advancement,” said Brandon Tatum, Chief Strategy Officer at Oklahoma Christian University. “Oklahoma Christian University is proud to be partners in this effort to deliver a modernized education model that fully immerses students in a hands-on learning and working environment while affordably earning a Bachelors of Science in Nursing.”

Applications for INTEGRIS University are now open. Candidates must apply to both INTEGRIS Health and Oklahoma Christian University, which can be done by visiting https://www.oc.edu/academics/online/integris. Integris and Oklahoma Christian University have teamed up to provide nurse training.

Business plan competition sees students fare well Student entrepreneur teams from the University of Central Oklahoma claimed one first place award and two second place finishes in the 2021 Love’s Entrepreneur’s Cup statewide business plan competition.

Team Amidad from UCO claimed a $10,000 first place prize in the Small Business Division for its app-based concept that provides undocumented immigrants and refugees with guides on understanding their legal rights during arrests.

Amidad team leader was Esther Velasco, with team members Sofia Arenas, Nichole Burroughs and Ashley Guerrero. Advisor was Amy Johnson.

Hamkke, another team from the University of Central Oklahoma, claimed second place in the Small Business Division, while team Swift and Sweet Events from East Central University was the third place winner.

Hamkke team Leader was Nhi Pham, with team members Emily

Falls and Marissa Perez. Advisor was Amy Johnson.

A third team from UCO, Pick Pro, won second place in the High Growth Graduate Division for its patented Light Duty Electric Cargo vehicle that reduces time and expense for shipping fulfillment centers by enhancing productivity.

Pick Pro team leader was Ruth Davis, with team members Drake Cartwright, Mattie England and Mark Steele. Advisor was Maurice Haff. P Pick Pro also was named Interview winner in the High Growth Manufacturing, Material Sciences and Transportation category, sponsored by the Oklahoma Business Roundtable.

Team Empowering Natives from UCO was named Interview winner in the Small Business Product category, while team AGnosis from Oklahoma Christian University was named Interview winner in the IT/App category.

See Students, Page 18

Measure targets criminals and costs of cybercrime A bipartisan solution to address the proliferation of cybercrime unanimously passed the Senate last we4ek.

House Bill 1759, authored by Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater and Sen. Zack Taylor, R-Seminole, updates language in the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act to better address computer security threats that continue to evolve.

“Our cybercrime bills are woefully behind the advance of technology leaving our agencies, businesses, and consumers vulnerable to threats, such as malware and ransomware,” Ranson said. “This bill updates definitions and penalties in the Computer Crimes Act so that Oklahoma is better prepared for whatever the future

brings.”

As technology advances and more commerce moves online, cybercrime is a growing threat. The FBI estimates that cybercrime costs the global economy more than $450 billion a year. This nefarious activity costs not only large companies but also small businesses.

“When people think about cyber attacks, they probably think about large companies,” said Ranson.

“However, small businesses are just as susceptible and sometimes more so due to their inability to pay for extensive cybersecurity. This bill is about protecting their livelihood and ultimately the state economy.”

HB1759 is now eligible to be signed into law by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Page 18 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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Finally, Regan McCarthick a member of team Pristine Clean from UCO, was named Undergraduate Division pitch winner.

Student innovators from across Oklahoma pitched concepts in the 2021 Love’s Entrepreneur’s Cup that ranged from high tech futuristic solutions to answers for real world problems that are here and now.

The teams were honored in a special Facebook Live virtual presentation on April 22.

The winning teams were among more than 50 collegiate teams that originally submitted written business plans for the competition that began with the Interview portion in February.

Student entrepreneurs competed in three divisions for $158,000 in cash awards and scholarships.

Love’s Travel Stops serves as Signature Sponsor for the annual competition, which is managed by i2E, Inc. More than 2,500 students have competed for over $2.1 million across the 17-year history of the competition.

In a special address to the Facebook Live audience, Jenny Love Meyer, chief culture officer for Love’s Travel Stops, thanked the student entrepreneurs for rising to the occasion amid the social distancing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Love’s is proud to recognize these outstanding young people, whose ability to create, innovate and think outside the box is an inspiration to us all,” Meyer said. “Every one of these students has shown a tremendous commitment to excellence and perseverance that I have no doubt will help them make a positive impact in their communities.”

Claiming first place and a cash award of $20,000 in this year’s High Growth Graduate Division was team BioSeal XE from Oklahoma State University. Saeed Manouchehr was BioSeal XE team leader, with Kevin Heupel as team member. David Thomison was advisor.

BioSeal XE is taking a bio adhesive to the equine market with technology that immediately stops bleeding and accelerates wound healing in horses for traumatic cuts, tears, or

skin punctures.

Another team from Oklahoma State University, Apeiron Solutions, was the third place winner.

In the High Growth Undergraduate Division, team Daedalus Droneworks from the University of Oklahoma claimed the first place prize of $20,000. Avery Mayfield was Daedalus Droneworks team leader, with team members James Geis, Johnathan Karch and James Roe. Omar Wyman was faculty advisor.

Daedalus DroneWorks is introducing a new groundbreaking technology that vastly improves flight times of unmanned aerial vehicles by using hybrid engines that convert gasoline to electricity.

University of Oklahoma teams swept the Undergraduate Division, with Team Simply Sorority named second place winner, while team Overlook claimed third place.

Also addressing the audience celebrating the Love’s Cup winners was Matt Pinnell, Oklahoma Lt. Governor. Pinnell and his wife are entrepreneurs themselves who operate a small business.

“We know the highs and low of running a small business and being an entrepreneur,” Pinnell said. “We know how important it is to health and well being and the future growth of the state of Oklahoma. I want you to know how big a deal you all are. We want all of you to be successful and would love for you to start businesses right here in the state of Oklahoma.” i2E CEO Scott Meacham closed the ceremony with remarks that not only lauded the achievements of the student entrepreneurs, but also recognized the Oklahoma investment and business leaders who served as judges, as well as the competition sponsors.

“Although these students are taking their first steps down the entrepreneur’s path, I’m impressed by both the innovation and level of sophistication of their concepts,” Meacham said. “I’m certain that we will see many of these students use this valuable learning opportunity as a springboard to successful careers as Oklahoma entrepreneurs and business leaders.”

Girl Scout organization will have eight weeks of day camp Parents seeking activity for girls this summer will have a unique option at Camp Trivera, as Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma (GSWESTOK) has announced it will offer eight weeks of day camp sessions at the newly-opened STEM camp.

Trivera’s week-long sessions will run from June 7 through July 30.

Each session will be Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with after-care available for working parents. The cost per week is $225, providing adventure and care for girls from grades K-12 at a competitive rate. There is a one-time sign-up fee of $35, which also provides participants with one year of membership in Girl Scouts.

GSWESTOK will host open house sessions from 5-7 p.m., April 26 and 27 at Trivera, 2508 NE 50th Street, Oklahoma, where parents and kids can learn about day camp activities, including a STEM lab, swimming pool, basketball court, amphitheater, treehouses and other indoor and outdoor adventures.

“Parents are looking for summer options for their kids, and at Camp Trivera, we have activities to get girls outdoors, make connections with friends and find adventure around every corner,” said Shannon Evers, CEO of Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma. “These camps are available for all girls from kindergarten through

12th grade. We can’t wait to meet our campers.”

In addition to wandering the grounds and meeting with staff, attendees at the open house sessions can also try out Trivera’s indoor rockclimbing wall. While no registration is necessary for the open house, participants can reserve a time for the climbing wall by visiting this website: https://bit.ly/2QdpVsp. To see a full list of Trivera’s day camp sessions, visit: https://camp.gswestok.org/types-ofcamp/day-camp/ More information about all Girl Scout camp options is available at www.GirlsGoCamp.org or by calling (405) 528-4475.

Camp Trivera, owned and operated

by Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, is a first-of-its-kind urban STEM camp.

The $12.2 million project was completed in the fall of 2020, so this will mark the first summer for campers.

When not in use by the Girl Scouts, the camp is available as a rental space geared to host everything from family reunions to corporate retreats.

Located in 39 Oklahoma counties in the central, southwest and northwest region of the state, Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma builds girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.

More information is available at www.gswestok.org.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 19

New law helps families grieve the loss of a baby Legislation was signed last week to better protect the rights of grieving families after the loss of a pregnancy. Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, and Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany, are the authors of Senate Bill 647. Lily’s Law extends to all families, regardless of when a stillbirth or fetal death occurs, the right to request their child’s remains for private burial.

Pugh said the legislation was requested by a mother, who after losing two children to miscarriage, discovered through her work for a pregnancy and infant loss ministry that many families are not aware of their right to request their children’s remains.

“Under current law, healthcare providers only have to let those families who suffer a loss after 12 weeks of their right to request their child’s remains. Losing a child at any stage of pregnancy is heartbreaking for families, but can be even worse when medical facilities dispose of the infant’s remains without first checking with the parents,” Pugh said. “Given that around 80% of pregnancy losses occur within the first trimester, Lily’s Law will ensure that families experiencing a loss have the opportunity to properly grieve and honor their child however they choose.”

Lily’s Law defines fetal death and stillbirth and subjects birthing centers and medical facilities to the same requirement to maintain a written policy for the disposition of a child’s remains from such an event as licensed hospitals.

“I want to thank Governor Stitt for his support

of grieving women and families,” Stark said, who worked as a registered nurse for 15 years. “Lily’s Law will hopefully open up the discussion and allow women to process the loss of their babies in a more positive way.”

The bill is named in honor of an Oklahoma family who lost their daughter, Lily Gianna, early in the first trimester in 2012. The couple was unaware they could ask for their daughter’s remains and the facility did not offer the option. Had they known, they said they would have chosen to recover Lily’s remains and bury her.

The new law will go into effect on Nov. 1.

State Sen. Adam Pugh

In light of COVID 19 for the time being, some worship services may be suspended or online.

Please check with your house of worship for more information.

Page 20 • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 1B

Page 2B • April 29, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

2021 Summer Activities & Camps Al’s Sports Cards and Gaming 116 East 15th Street 405-348-7583 Friday Night Magic Tournaments When: Every Friday at 6:30pm Draft Standard to Modern Format Saturday Pokemon Tournaments When: Monthly on Saturdays Please Call 405-348-7583 between 12pm-6:30pm for times Saturday Sports Card Show 1st Saturday of every month Time: 1-5pm Call ahead for table availability Dealer Tables: $12 Drawings for $10 gift Vouchers Drawings: 1:30pm, 2:30pm & 3:30pm To be redeemed at the Dealer’s table of your choice.

Sunday Yu Gi Oh Tournaments: When: Sundays from 1:30-5:30pm (Sign ups are from 1:30pm to 2pm) Entry Fee: $5 Arcadia Lake (405) 216-7470

Arcadia Lake Kids Fishing Derby Kids age 5-15 may enter this event, at Spring Creek Park. Kids start fishing at 8 a.m. Final weigh-in is at 11 a.m. Prizes will be awarded at noon. Bring bait, fishing equipment, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and lawn chair. Concessions and worms will be for sale at the event site. Kids may begin registering at 7:30 a.m and no one will be allowed to register after 9 a.m.

Parent or guardian must accompany children. Please call for COVID restrictions.

Ages: 5-15 Date: June 5 Time: 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Cadence Equestrian Center 14150 S. Pine Street 405-348-7469 cadenceequestrian.com Since 2007 Camp Cadence has provided a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about horses in a family-friendly and safe environment. Camp Cadence offers indoor and outdoor horseback riding experiences to boys and girls ages 5-16. No previous riding experience is necessary to attend the camp.

Full Day Camp: Full Day Camp is the perfect camp for any horse crazy kid where longer days at the barn make for more horsey fun, and more time in the saddle!

On most camp days campers will ride twice including in an individualized riding lesson, and again in the afternoon playing games on horseback, bareback riding, or trail riding. Campers will gain knowledge and confidence throughout the week and learn many skills including safety around horses, horse care, horse grooming, horse feeding, and more! Campers will also enjoy our fun specialty days including fishing day and water day!

CAMP T-SHIRT INCLUDED! Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, July 12-16, July 19-23, July 26-30, August 2-6 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Half Day Camp: Half Day Camp is our condensed day camp for parents looking for a shorter camp day. The half day camp can be a good option for younger campers age 5-7 who may not be ready for the full day camp experience. Campers are immersed in the world of horses and receive a daily riding lesson tailored to their skill level. Campers will gain knowledge and confidence throughout the week and learn many skills including safety around horses, horse care, horse grooming, horse feeding, and of course horseback riding! All in a safe and fun environment! CAMP T-SHIRT INCLUDED! Ages: 5-14 Cost: $295 Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, July 12-16, July 19-23, July 26-30, August 2-6 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Riding Academy Camp: Riding Academy Camp is an intermediate to advanced camp specially designed for our Riding Academy students! Campers must be enrolled in regular riding lessons at Cadence (or similar approved program) to participate. Riding Academy Camp campers will get lots of time in the saddle. Each day campers will ride TWICE including one riding lesson (riders divided by skill level) and one fun ride (i.e bareback, trail ride, or games on horseback). Campers will also participate in fun activities to further enrich their horsemanship knowledge and polish those skills.

CAMP T-SHIRT INCLUDED! Ages: 7-15 Cost: $475 Dates: May 31-June 4, June 28-July 2 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dance Unlimited Summer Dance Camps 1217 E Hefner Road, OKC 405-242-4612 This is Us Come alive at Greatest Showman camp!

Get ready for a fun week of jazz and hip-hop, dancing, singing, carnival games, crafts, and acrobatics. All your million dreams will come true when you join us this summer.

Ages: 3-6 Cost: $105 Date: June 21-24 Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Ages: 7+ Cost: $150 Date: June 21-24 Time: 1-4 p.m.

High School Musical Do you want to be a Wildcat for a week?

We are jumping into the world of High School Musical here at DU! Get ready to learn those famous high school musical moves and songs.

Ages: 7+ Cost: $150 Date: July 12-15 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Fairytale Adventure Camp Do you dream of being a prince or princess? At Fairytale Adventure camp, you can! Join us for Story Time, Royal Poses, a craft, and we will even prepare a dance for the royal ball! There may even be a surprise visit from a REAL princess! Come to camp and have a magical time.

Ages: 3-6 Cost: $105 Date: June 28-July 1 Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Lights, Camera, Famous Were you born to entertain? Join us for a week full of learning fun, musical theatre choreography, coaching audition songs, taking headshots, creating resumes, and even learning scenes from iconic Broadway musicals! 4 days full of creativity at its finest!

Ages: 7+ Date: June 28-July 1 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Christmas in July Who says Christmas can only come once a year? Do you LOVE Christmas? Are you ready for some Yuletide fun? Wear your favorite Christmas outfit, jammies, or socks and let’s revisit all our favorites jingle jams! A winter-filled week of dancing, singing, crafts, SNOW and more!

Ages: 3-6 Cost: $65 Date: July 26 & 27 Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Ages: 7+

Cost: $65 Date: July 26 & 27 Time: 1-3 p.m.

Trolls World Tour Who is your Troll Tribe? Are you techno, funk, classical, country, rock, or pop?

Are you ready to find out which Troll is your jam? Is it Poppy, Cooper, Branch, or Barb? Get ready for a rockin week where we will learn music and scenes from the Trolls 2 movie! And of course, we will move our hair and DANCE, DANCE, DANCE! Ages: 3-6 Cost: $105 Dates: July 12-15 Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Ready, Set, Disney Do you love Mickey Mouse clubhouse, Fancy Nancy, Doc McStuffins, Lizzie McGuire, Jesse, Story Bots, Good Luck Charlie, Babysitters Club, Toy Story, and MORE? Join us for a week of fun, week of dancing, singing, crafts, and ALL THINGS DISNEY! It will be a magical time!

Ages: 3-6, 7+ Date: July 7-9 Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Pippin Performance: July 29 & 30 Auditions and callbacks: July 16 & 17 Downtown Edmond Arts Festival Due to continuing Covid concerns we have decided to reschedule the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival to September 10-12, 2021. We are confident that a fall event will be a great success. (Average temperatures in early September are 67-86 degrees!) We hope you and your family are healthy and safe, and we look forward to seeing you at the Arts Festival in September!

Edmond Farmers Market Festival Marketplace in Downtown Edmond 405-359-4630 We are all lined up and ready to go for the 17th season of the Outdoor Edmond Farmers Market at the Festival Market Place! We are proud to offer the freshest locally grown, raised and manufactured food items in a safe and convenient manner. Open through October, every Saturday 8 AM-1 PM Edmond Farmers Market and Junior Market: Wednesdays, June 2-September 29, 8 AM-1 PM at Mitch Park Edmond Historical Society & Museum 431 S Boulevard 405-340-0078 1889 Summer Camps Our popular 1889 Summer Camps are back for 2021! Join us from 9 AM to 12 PM Tuesday through Thursday at the 1889 Schoolhouse. Campers will pretend, learn, and play like it’s 1889 while spending time in Edmond’s own historic one-room schoolhouse. Camp is limited to 12 spots. Masks required and social distancing and sanitization recommendations will be followed. Pick your session today!

Ages: 6-12 Dates: June 8-10, June 15-17, June 22-24, June 29-July 1 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Edmond Parks and Recreation 405-359-4630 edmondparks.com Focus on Photography Camp Focus on Photography is a hands-on summer camp that inspires your youth or teen with visual art activities, community building, museums field trips, and more! Your child will learn aspects of the camera digital and film, composition, rule of thirds, action images, along with other fun activities that will keep your kiddo engaged and happy. We will take regular field trips, for those trips campers will be required to bring $10. Register with Edmond Parks and Recreation Ages: 7-17 Cost: $125-150 Dates: May 17-21, May 24-28, June 1-4, June 7-4, July 14-18, July 21-25, July 28-August 2, August 5-9 Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sewing Camp You will have lots of fun learning how to sew, thread and operate a sewing machine, cut patterns and more! You will get to take home 3 finished projects made by you. There will be a new project each day. Register with Edmond Parks and Recreation Ages: 6-18 Cost: $80 Dates: June 1-4 Time: 3-4:30 p.m.

Outdoor Adventure Days It’s summer time! Get out there and be adventurous with Edmond Parks!! There are some seriously adventurous activities and we are going to experience as many as we can this summer! Transportation is provided as well as parks staff supervision. Register with Edmond Parks and Recreation. Costs and times vary by activity.

Ages: 8-17

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 29, 2021 • Page 3B

2021 Summer Activities & Camps June 1- Frontier City June 15- Martin Nature Park June 29- Arcadia Lake July 6- Arcadia Lake July 20- OKC Zoo July 20- Arcadia Lake Youth Tech Camps Animation In this class students will learn the basics of animation and digital design. Students who enjoy going to various sites to see fun interactive animations will love this course. This class will utilize award winning animation software. Students will create fun interactive animations that they can share with the world. Register at youthtechinc.com Dates: July 6-9 Cost: $145 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Roblox Studio- Programming and Game Development Roblox Studio-Programming and Game Development-NEW Ages 9-15 Calling all ROBLOX users! Join in with millions of gamers and immerse yourself in your own 3D world! ROBLOX Studio is a 3D-based program that uses physics, LUA programming, and individual creativity to build a world around you, and your avatar unlike any other software This course will guide students through concepts such as beginner physics, LUA programming, and game development. Students in this course will build and publish their multiplayer game to share with friends and family! Register at youthtechinc.com Cost: $155 Dates: July 6-9, July 26-29 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Movie Makers This hands-on, interactive course will instruct students on the world of digital video design and production. Students will film, direct and edit their own digital video creations. Students enrolled in this course amaze their peers with green screen and special effects work. Register at youthtechinc.com Cost: $145 Dates: June 14-17 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Video Game Design This course provides students with a fun interactive look at the world of video game design and development. Students enrolled in this camp will learn the basics of video game design and produce several different interactive video games to share with their friends and family.

Register at youthtechinc.com Cost: $165 Dates: June 14-17 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Dates: June 12-15 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Gaming and Coding Camp This course combines two unbelievable experiences for students, gaming and coding. Students spend the morning taking an interactive look at coding, and building virtual apps to share with friends. In the afternoon, students build simple video games combining the art of video game design and animation to create interactive characters that fly around the screen. Students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. Register at youthtechinc.com Cost: $245 Dates: June 21-24 Time: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. iGame Creators Want to create video games? This is an introductory course for younger students who want to learn to build and program simple video games. This course combines the art of video game design and animation to create interactive characters that fly around the screen. Amaze your friends and family with your fun interactive games. Register at youthtechinc.com Ages: 6-10 Cost: $125 Dates: June 21-24 Time: 1-3:30 p.m.

Dates: July 26-29 Time: 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Youth Tech Graphic Design This session will cover the basics of digital photography as well as key concepts in the world of digital imaging. Students enrolled in this course will take photos, and learn how to manipulate images using powerful image editing software to create the image that they envision. Register at youthtechinc.com Ages: 9-17 Cost: $145 Dates: June 28-July 1 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Gamers Paradise This class offers students a look at multiple areas of game design. From mobile game development to stand alone games if you have a gamer you will not want to miss this class. Students will create multiple games that they can share with friends and family. Register at youthtechinc.com Ages: 6-13 Cost: $125 Dates: June 28-July 1

Time: 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Gaming Academy The gaming academy is an all day course for students who love games. During this course students will be immersed into the world of 2D and 3D game design. The gaming academy is a combination of our Video Game Design, Advanced Game Design and 3D Game Design courses. The course offers students a variety of hands on experience designing and building their very own games. Students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. Register at youthtechinc.com Cost: $300 Dates: July 12-15 Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

3D Game Design This class offers and interactive look at the world of 3D Game Design. This awesome 3D video game design course offers the chance for students to create and immerse themselves in a 3D world.

If you are looking to design professional 3D games that both look and feel just like the ones you play at home, then you don’t want to miss this course. Register at youthtechinc.com Cost: $155 Dates: July 12-15 Time: 1-4 p.m. iCode This course offers younger students a fun, interactive look at coding. Students will create virtual apps and write their own programs that they can share with friends and family. This course makes learning to code fun and explores problem solving and programming logic. Students will have access to their accounts so the learning does not end at the door. **Students should be able to read prior to taking this course. Register at youthtechinc.com Cost: $125 Dates: June 21-24 Time: 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Mad Science Summer Camps at the MAC Secret Agent Lab Suspects, schematics, and sleuths… oh my! Connect the dots using science to help solve a crime in this hands-on investigation of the science of sleuthing. Children use the ‘scene solver’ to reconstruct the scene of a crime. Using the ‘whodunit-kit’, they can practice their skills of recall and observation—matching character descriptions to reconstruct the face of the culprit! Look out 007—the Mad Science spy academy is in session! From decoding messages to metal detectors and night vision, children have the opportunity to check out spy equipment and even create their own edible messages! They use the ‘secret code breaker’ to communicate in code, like real spies. With the ‘undercover observer’, children step into the shoes of spies in action. It will be a week of camp to remember! Children take home a detective tool at every session.

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: June 7-11 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Dates: July 26-30 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Jr. Explorations Children explore different topics during this fun five-day camp. They take a trip through the solar system where each student becomes a Mad Science Astronaut in training. They make a space shuttle to take home. In an ‘explosive’ session students get introduced to simple chemistry fun. We simulate a volcanic eruption, observe protein molecules in action as they turn into explosive colors, and more.

They get fascinated with light and learn how shadows and rainbow colors are made using a rainbow catcher. They mix colors of light and explore the world of color. Take an imaginary trip to the beach and see how sand is made. Meet creatures that live in the ocean. Examine different shells, a starfish, & a sponge; and see how different sea creatures live.

This is a week of fun exploration and discovery!

Grades: PreK-1 Cost: $180 Dates: June 14-18, July 12-16 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Polymers, Crystals, Colors, and more Chemistry is at the very core of everything living and nonliving. Campers explore many chemical and physical reactions. Some of these reactions result in ooze, gooey slime, gack and putty.

They make fluffy, glittery, glowy and even edible slime! They come up with crazy concoctions like fluorescent spheres in a test tube and thermochromic mixtures.

They discover crystals by making snowflakes, crystal gardens, edible candies and even egg geodes! Enzymes like catalase, papain have an amazing role in the food we eat, in cooking and even digesting.

Campers become food chemists in this week of fun and discovery!

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: June 14-18, July 26-30 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Eureka: The Mad Inventors’ Camp Inspire the inventor and scientist in you during this week of discovery and

invention. Each day children will be given a series of challenges which must be overcome using basic materials, simple machines, tips from world famous inventors and the most important thing of all – your mind! If you were stranded on a desert island how would you survive? You will need to build shelter, find food and purify water, protect yourself and your teammates from the elements and find a way off the island. Journey to the future and examine the ultramodern inventions of the 23rd century. Then design the future - today! Create mini light sabers, mini-space stations, and electric flying contraptions. With a little bit of ingenuity, you’ll construct catapults and forts, build Ruberg contraptions that perform simple tasks, and experiment with humanoid robots. Take home projects include pingpong ball launchers, mousetrap contraption cars, mystery sticks, tubular blow darts, and other wacky contraptions.

While Thomas Edison said, “invention is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration” this camp is 100% FUN Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: June 14-18 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Dates: July 12-16 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Nature, Bugs and Blossoms Young explorers discover the natural

world of bugs, plants and humans! They learn the life cycle of a seed to a fully grown plant. They investigate how the sun, the wind and the rain affect life—including not just plants but even creepy crawlies and bugs. They become weather artists using rain and wind as their tools!

They explore the life of a caterpillar and discover how it turns into a beautiful butterfly. They make their own bug bracelet. They discover the difference between fruits and vegetables from their own placemats. They then make a mural of a garden with their fellow campers.

This camp introduces the children to the beauty and awe of the world they live in!

Grades: PreK-1 Cost: $180 Dates: June 21-25, July 19-23 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

LEGO Mindstorms Robotics Children explore the exciting world of robotics! Two campers work together to build a programmable robot using the Lego Mindstorms platform. They learn the parts of a robot and how they function. They work with ultrasonic, touch, color and motion sensors which collect information around them. The program interprets this information and makes the robot respond to its environment.

Children make the robots move, identify colors, follow a line and avoid objects around. They will build different projects of varying degrees of challenge from sim-

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2021 Summer Activities & Camps ple to complex. These future roboticists will learn teamwork, problem solving and critical thinking skills, and develop the value of self-motivation and resourcefulness.

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Dates: July 12-16 Time: 1-4 p.m.

NASA Journey Into Deep Space From our Earth’s atmosphere to the outer reaches of our solar system, this camp sends young astronauts on a quest for exploration! Explore the farthest reaches of our solar system and create a lunar eclipse in this “mad” planetary tour! Make a comet using common kitchen ingredients and understand a comet’s composition. Discover technology designed for outer space! Steer a laser beam through a laser maze, find hidden mountains using the principles of radar technology, and discover everyday objects that were originally designed for use in space! Build your own take home Stereoscopic Viewer and see the Mars Curiosity in 3D! Then, it’s your chance to become a rocket scientist! Investigate the four forces of flight, and explore the science involved in rocket construction as you build your own Skyblazer II Rocket™ that you can take home!

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: June 21-25 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Lil Agents and Detectives Children learn basic skills in observation and problem solving in this fun filled camp on detective science and spying.

They learn how to collect evidence such as fingerprints, shoe tracks, fibers etc. They learn the importance of good observation when together they work on making face profiles. What is more fun than spying! They learn and work with tools that spies use such as a “spynocular”, metal detectors, listening gadgets and more!

Grades: PreK-1 Cost: $180 Dates: June 28-July 2 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Brixology: Engineers Shape The World Get ready for the Bridges, Bricks, BlastOff Brigade! Campers step into the shoes of engineers in this Mad Science FUN’gineered camp full of rockets, wacky machines, flying devices, roller coasters,

and Bricks! Your future engineer will use their creativity to solve real-world design challenges. Children will have the opportunity to use LEGO® bricks to build engineering themed projects related to machines and boats. Children will also build skyscrapers and bridges. Blast off a variety of rockets propelled my model engines, air, and water. Discover Newton’s Laws of Motion with CO2 powered dragsters and test team car designs on our 8 foot egg crasher apparatus! Campers build and take home engineering projects such as drawing machines, micro-pincher’s, a wooden cube puzzle, balloon car, flying fizzler rockets, and the Wave Rider Boat and Skyroller Zipline cable car that is compatible with campers LEGO® bricks at home! Let the tinkering begin!

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: June 28-July 2 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Engineering for the Future This camp takes children to hands-on personal experience as they grow and learn to become budding engineers. Students explore planet Mars as they build a land rover and astrolander. They discover the physics of landing a spacecraft on the surface of Mars. They make models to clean ocean pollution. They also create and build different ways to harness other natural power sources- wind, solar, hydro, biomass and more. These young engineers learn that there is science application in amusement parks. They discover principles of center of gravity, centripetal forces, momentum, precession at carnivals! They build a ferris wheel, thrill rides and even hovercrafts!

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: June 28-July 2 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Dates: July 19-23 Time: 9 a.m-12 p.m.

My First Science Lab Become a Mini Mad Scientist! This camp is a half-day program full of a variety of science topics that will excite and entertain young learners! Children explore their sense of sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. They become paleontologists searching for fossils and participating in mini dinosaur digs. Campers explore the science of animals in the wild and under the ground how they eat, live-and discover how fascinating these creatures are.

The forces of the world come together in an exciting day devoted to gravity,

Edmond Center Court 601 W. 15th Street 405-348-3120

inertia and energy. The week ends with an exciting mission to space to explore the planets, moons and stars. Take-home projects are built every day!

Grades: PreK-1 Cost: $180 Dates: July 5-9 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

2021 Summer Camps

Magical and Fizzical Science Welcome to a fun- filled and magical science camp as children learn a variety of ahhhmazing exploration of our fizz-ical world! It’s one of our new favorites with fast paced experiments one after another in topics like laser light, electricity, super power and energy, and magnets! Create some ahhhmazing reactions and discover the mystery of chemistry. Watch crystals grow and make fun-tabulous art using shaving cream. Dive into electricity by experimenting with squishy circuits and mini Van De Graff sticks. Learn about power and energy by building chemical batteries and solar powered devices. Use lasers to send music across the room and create holograms. Learn the magic behind magnets by building speakers, levitating magnets, and making magnetic putty. In this camp, you will certainly become a certified “Mad” Scientist! It’s a camp so great it’s Super-Duper!

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180

Ages 6 and Up Monday-Friday, 8:00am-12:00pm. $140 includes camp.

May 31-June 4 June 7-11 June 14-18 June 21-25 June 28-July 2 July 5-9 July 12-16 July 19-23 July 26-30 Aug. 2-6

Dates: July 5-9 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Dates: July 19-23 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Rocking Rockets and Aerodynamics This camp takes the children through the principles of flight and aerodynamics. They build airplanes, hovercraft and balloon copters. They discover what makes things fly and how different types of flying devices fly. They explore the role that wind and the movement of air plays on simple flying devices such as kites, hot air balloons and parachutes.

What is the Milky Way and how do we know what’s up there? Children explore the celestial sphere, learn about celestial navigation and build their own sextant, sundial, planisphere and even a refracting telescope while discovering the wonders of the Milky Way. This is a camp that takes children to exhilarating heights all summer long!

Grades: 2-6 Cost: $180 Dates: July 5-9 Time: 1-4 p.m.

Hot Shots Monday - Friday, ages 4-5, 12:301:30pm. $70 includes camp.

May 31-June 4 June 7-11 June 14-18 June 21-25 June 28-July 2 July 5-9

Edmond Racquet Club 425 Lilac Dr. 405-340-4241 Edmond Tennis Camps The nationally recognized professional staff who has successfully run youth programs at Edmond Area facilities for over 30 years is pleased to bring a fun and rewarding experience in its Edmond Tennis Camp, held at Edmond Racquet Club.

This staff can boast a combined total of over 80 years experience in teaching tennis to all levels. All instructors are full time staff members or college students.

From the fundamentals of the game to the advanced strategies and strokes, each camper is guaranteed progress and development. Smallest instructional groups in the area ensure maximum individual attention and evaluation, as well as creating various working levels, from beginner to intermediate level.

1/2 Day Camp Ages: 8-18 Cost: $125 Dates: June 1-4, June 7-10, June 14-17, June 21-24, June 29-July 1, July 12-15, July 19-22, July 26-29, August 2-5 Time: 8:45 a.m.-12 p.m.

Early Camp BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES, $119 INCLUDES RACKET & T-SHIRT. Drills, games, and skills with age appropriate

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2021 Summer Activities & Camps equipment. MEETS 2 X WEEK FOR 3 WEEKS emphasizing the basic strokes, drills, instruction, and organized play.

Ages: 5-8 Cost: $119 Dates: Tuesday and Thursdays June 1-17, June 22-July 8, July 13-29 Time: 8:45-9:30 a.m.

Ages: 8-16 Dates: Mondays and Wednesdays June 2-21, June 23-July14, July 19-August 4 Time: 8:30-9:25 a.m.

Evening Camp BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES, $119 INCLUDES RACKET & T-SHIRT. Drills, games, and skills with age appropriate equipment. MEETS 2 X WEEK FOR 3 WEEKS emphasizing the basic strokes, drills, instruction, and organized play.

Ages: 7-15 Cost: $119 Dates: June 1-17, June 22-July 8, July 13-29 Time: 6-6:55 p.m.

Junior League Junior League is a year round program for ages 9-17 just starting organized play, up to the intermediate player. Drills, instruction, games and organized play are geared toward these advancing players.

COACH APPROVAL REQUIRED. Day sessions are offered 4 days a week, Monday through Thursday. Players may sign up for a day, week or month (Or see Cindy for customized programs). (No free racquet with Junior League, check with coach for info on appropriate racket. Actual tennis shoes are required.) Because it is so crucial to development, a private lesson special is offered.

Ages: 9-17 Cost: $379 Dates: June 1-July 1, July 6-August 5 Time: 9:30-10:55 Advanced Mini Camp 3 days emphasizing advanced serving, strategy, strokes, and movement Ages: 10-16 Cost $119 Dates: July 6-8, July 27-29 Time: 8:45 a.m.-12 p.m.

Edmond Soccer Club 1502 W. Danforth edmondsoccer.com ESC Summer Blast 3v3/5v5 tournament Date: June 26 Recreational Camp The ESC Recreational Camp is recommended for all recreational players U5-U19, boys and girls. The focus of the camp will be on attacking skills, beating the defender 1v1, and attacking the goal to score. The first 2/3 of the session will focus on skills, with the last 30 minutes set aside for scrimmaging in order to implement the skills learned earlier in the session. Players should bring a ball, water, and wear soccer appropriate clothing, including shin guards. Early registration deadline is July 19.

Ages: Under 5-Under 19 Cost: $80 Dates: July 26-29 Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

ESC Academy Camp The ESC Academy Camp is recommended for all recreational and Academy players U7 – U10. Players interested in joining the ESC Academy for the fall of 2021 season are encouraged to participate in this camp. This camp will be an excellent way for your child to work with coaches that will be staffing the academy teams this upcoming year. The focus of the camp will be on attacking skills, beating the defender 1v1, and attacking the goal to score. The first 2/3 of the session will focus on skills, with the last 30 minutes set aside for scrimmaging in order to implement the skills learned earlier in the session. Players should bring a ball, water, and wear soccer appropriate clothing, including shin guards. Early registration deadline is July 19.

Ages: Under 7-Under 10 Cost: $80 Dates: July 26-29 Time: 7:00-8:30 p.m.

ESC Striker/Goalkeeper Camp Players should bring a ball, water, and wear soccer appropriate clothing, including shin guards. Early registration deadline is July 19.

Ages: Under 10-Under 19 Cost: $95 Dates: July 30-August 1 Time: 6-8:30 p.m.

ESC Futsal Academy Pilot Camp Futsal is an exciting, fast-paced small sided soccer game that is played across the world and is officially recognized by both FIFA and UEFA. This camp will take place at Score OKC. Early registration deadline is June 28 Ages: Birth years 2015-2008 Cost: $189 Dates: July 12-15 Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Fall Soccer Registration Registration for fall soccer begins July 1, 2021.

Fine Arts Institute 27 East Edwards 405-340-4481 Little Artists Camp Preschoolers will have 3 days of fun filled artistic experiences. Campers will create paintings, collages, prints and three-dimensional art each day. Every day brings new projects that will bring a smile to all.

FAI instructors are professionals certified in their areas of expertise. Learning is fun at the FAI “Little Artists Camps”. All campers must be potty trained. **Please note: each month brings all new art projects! Camps are Tuesday-Thursday.

Ages: 3-6 Dates: June 8-10, July 6-8, August 3-5 Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Art Escape Camp Art Escape Camp is a FAI tradition where kids enjoy a week filled with creative workshops in the visual arts. Students will rotate through 4 workshops each day where they will draw, paint; create with clay, mixed media and more. The FAI faculty, composed of professionals certified in their areas of expertise, creates an environment which makes learning fun and enhances self-esteem. All campers will receive a camp t-shirt. Please bring a sack lunch each day.

Grades: 1-5 Dates: June 14-18, June 21-25, July 1216, July 19-23 Time: 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Glow in the Dark- Black Out Camp Join us as we enjoy three afternoons of “Glow in the Dark” art projects. It will be like no other you have experienced. We will experience some fun and illuminating times using paint, markers ,oil pastels and a few surprise supplies that will glow and shine under the coolest of lights. You really won’t want to miss this one! Bring a snack to enjoy!

Ages: 6 and up Cost: $120 Date: July 27-29 Time: 12-3 p.m.

Francis Tuttle 405-717-4900 francistuttle.edu/campus-events/summer-quest Summer Quest This year, the Summer Quest program is offered in three weekly sessions June 7th25th, both in on-campus and virtual settings. On-campus classes will take place all day, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will follow pandemic protocol. Capacity will be limited to ensure social distancing. A few classes will be all virtual, and these classes will take place Monday through Friday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Students on campus must bring a sack lunch for their meal each day they attend. The goal of Summer Quest is to provide a safe, fun and rewarding experience for every participant. Classes are offered from a variety of subjects so students can pick something they will enjoy the most.

Baking Bingo (Virtual) Dates: June 7-11 Time: 9-10:30 a.m.

Cooking FUN 101 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell ALL Things Sweet Dates: July 14-18 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Pizza & Pastries Dates: June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell OHHH The Pastabilities Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Soups, Salads and Sandwiches Galore Dates: June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Baking Sweets and the Science Behind It! Dates: Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell The Creative Chef Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Construction Kids Plus Dates: June 14-18 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell THIS is Rocket Science Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Ignite STEM Dates: June 14-18, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Intro to Robotics Dates: June 7-11, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Portland CAD Creations Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Portland VEX Robotics Fun Dates: June 14-18 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Portland Engineering Adventure II Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Portland Oh my, LOTS of Pie! Dates: June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell We Create Interactive Dates: June 7-11 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Digital Drawing Dates: June 7-11 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Creating Concept Art with Apple iPad & Pencil Dates: June 14-18 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell World of LIFE Sciences Dates: June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Rockwell What Do YOU Want to Be When YOU Grow Up??

Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis Tuttle- Reno Invention Squad Dates: June 7-11, June 1418, June 21-25 Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: Francis TuttleReno Integris Summer Camp Camp Fun & Fit 5500 N. Independence Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112 405-949-6888 funandfit@integrisok.com Camp Fun & Fit is our full time summer child care program. Children are in groups based on age and spend their summer days going on field trips, on and off site activities including art projects, cooking projects, outdoor activities, video arcade and other interactive games, science experiments and much more! Fun & Fit is a school-aged child care program for children who are at least four-years-old AND have completed Pre-K to those who are NO OLDER than 12 years as of August 1 of the current year.

Kickingbird Tennis Center 1500 East Danforth Rd. 405-348-3120 2021 Summer Camps With the focus on play and fun, our Tennis Camps are aimed at bringing kids into the game they can enjoy for life. The camp provides a great start on that lifelong path, by coaching skills in a way that’s fun and enjoyable. In addition to learning the fundamentals

for groundstrokes and serve, players learn how to keep score and tennis etiquette.

They also learn life skills, such as integrity and good sportsmanship, which are important building blocks to developing character in young people. By the end of the camp, each participant will have been taught the basic skills of tennis in a fun and exciting environment.

Ages: 4-5 Cost: $70 Dates: May 31-June 4, June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, June 28-July 2, July 5-9 Time: 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Ages: 6 and up Cost: $140 Oklahoma Railway Museum 3400 NE Grand Blvd, OKC 405-424-8222 Train Rides Come take a ride at the Oklahoma Railway Museum on our historic MKT mainline track. You will enjoy a train ride in our historic passenger coaches pulled by our vintage diesel locomotives. Train Rides are available for kids of all ages (0 to 99+) every 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, April through September.

Train rides last approximately 40 minutes.

Dates: May 31-June 4, June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, June 28-July 2, July 5-9, July 12-16, July 19-23, July 26-30, August 2-6 Time: 8 am.-12 p.m.

Liberty Fest libertyfest.org Edmond’s Fourth of July Festival LibertyFest has several festival events to excite, entertain and dazzle our audiences. Go to libertyfest.org for more information. June 25 – July 4.

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