Edmond Life and Leisure - June 3, 2021

June 3, 2021 Vol. 22, No. 3

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Will pets need Covid vaccines?

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.

Prepare for aftermath of bad weather See page 11

FRIDAY, June 4

Partly Cloudy High 82° Low 67°

SATURDAY, June 5 Partly Cloudy High 82° Low 649°

SUNDAY, June 6

Partly Cloudy High 81° Low 68°

Tom Snider The coronavirus has never been a problem limited to people.

Since the pandemic’s start, the virus’s potential to impact pets, livestock and wildlife has been a global concern.

But will the four-legged friends we share our homes with need vaccines? It’s unlikely in the short term, said Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation attending veterinarian Jennie Criley, D.V.M. “Although there are a few reports of dogs and cats testing positive for SARSCoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, they typically show no or very mild symptoms,” said Criley, who is also the director of comparative medicine at OMRF. “Currently, there is no evidence that dogs and cats play a significant role in transmitting the virus to humans or other animals.”

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, livestock like horses, pigs and poultry don’t appear to be naturally susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. While results of studies of the virus in cattle are conflicting, the AVMA notes it doesn’t appear they can

be easily infected either.

But there is one notable excep-

PHOTO BY ERIECH TAPIA

In response, numerous vaccines for mink are in development.

If the U.S. Department of Agriculture and health experts determine a companion animal SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is necessary, a vaccine developed for mink could eventually be adapted and approved for household pets.

Criley added that if research shows a Covid-19 vaccine for our pets is needed to protect animal and human health, it wouldn’t be the first time.

“Rabies is a classic example of a vaccination given to our PHOTO PROVIDED pets that keeps them safe and Jennie Criley, D.V.M. that saves human lives,” said tion, said Criley: Mink. Millions Criley. But, she added, it’s best of the small, weasel-like mammals not to worry. Current work is are bred on farms worldwide, and all preliminary when it comes to they can be infected by and poman’s best friends. tentially transmit the coronavirus “Keep your pet up to date with to humans. all preventative health care rec“The concern is that the virus ommended by your veterinarian,” could thrive in animals, mutate, said Criley. “And remember, pets and then pass back to humans,” have become used to people said OMRF physician-scientist Hal being home more while we have Scofield, M.D. “Given that the been working remotely. Be sure to probable origin of Covid-19 was give them some extra TLC if you an animal — likely a bat — it’s im- are transitioning back to working portant that this be monitored.” outside of the home office.”

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House touts achievements as legislative session ends The House of Representatives adSenate Reacts, P-7 journed Sine Die on Thursday following successful passage of a comprehensive conservative policy agenda.

“From the budget to policy, this was the most comprehensive conservative policy session ever,” said House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka. “The largest House Republican majority in state history delivered more pro-growth conservative wins than ever before in a single session. We met the mandate of the voters and can build on that momentum going forward.”

The Legislature sent 600 measures to the governor this session, including a historic state budget and major conservative accomplishments in education, taxes, states’ rights, the economy and public safety.

“Sessions are usually defined by one or two big accomplishments. This session had at least a dozen accomplishments that, in any other year, could have been considered the biggest issues of session,” McCall said. “The level of productivity has never been higher in my nine years of service, and I thank all members of the House, Senate and Governor Stitt for their partnership in this shared accomplishment.”

Major 2021 accomplishments that were priorities of the House Republican Caucus include: Education Implemented open transfer policy to expand parental choice (HB 2074, SB 783) Reduced class sizes in kindergarten and first grade through increased appropriations Maximized funding formula by making money follow student (HB 2078) Created charter and traditional school funding equity with Redbud School Funding Act (SB 229) Increased private support for public schools and scholarships for private schools (SB 1080)

See House, Page 4

Edmond teachers recognized To honor the creative efforts teachers have made to maneuver their ever-shifting learning environments and keep students engaged this past year, Sonic Drive-In donated $1.5 million to teacher requests on national education nonprofit site DonorsChoose on Teacher Appreciation Day, May 4.

As part of SONIC's ongoing Limeades for Learning initiative, the $1.5 million donation helped fund more than 7,000 teacher requests across the country in need of critical resources, including 10 teachers in Edmond, Okla., who received a combined donation of $1,344.00.

On Teacher Appreciation Day, the brand matched 50 percent of each donation made to all teacher requests on DonorsChoose. In Edmond, the following teachers at eight schools received funding: • Mrs. Mcbride at Centennial Elementary School for the project "Fine Motor Fun for All Five Senses" • Coach Mcgrew at Cimarron Middle School for the project "STEM Application Through 3D Modeling and Printing" • Mrs. Winther at Cimarron Middle School for the project "Shaping the Minds of America's Future Writers" • Mrs. Phillips at Deer Creek Intermediate School for the project "Improved 3D Printing!"

• Ms. Wishon at Edmond North High School for the project "World Language Film Festival" • Mrs. Tindill at Heritage Elementary School for the project "Strong Magnetic

City seeks public input for future of east side The East Edmond 2050 Plan provides scenarios for future land use patterns from I-35 to the east.

The City of Edmond has several upcoming opportunities for residents to provide feedback for the East Edmond 2050 Plan. The plan, which will assess potential development patterns in the eastern part of the City (including the I-35 Corridor), is an important action item in the city’s comprehensive land use plan, Edmond Plan 2018.

The primary goal of the study is to identify the associated costs, benefits, and impacts of future development and provide community leaders with data to make informed decisions as growth in Edmond continues. It is anticipated the study will continue until Fall 2021.

Community engagement is a vital component of the plan for developing needs, priorities, goals, and strategies that will guide the City’s vision for the future. There are multiple ways to engage the planning process during the first week of June.

For those that would like to engage in the process in-person, multiple pop-up events will take place on Thursday, June 3 & Saturday, June 5.

These include:

• Thursday, June 3 at Walmart Supercenter (1225 West I-35 Frontage Road) from 7:30-10:30 am & 3-5 pm •Thursday, June 3 at Stephenson Park Pavilion (431 South Boulevard) from 12-2 pm • Thursday, June 3 at Commonplace Books (21 South Broadway) from 12-4 pm • Thursday, June 3 during Edmond Vibes (7 North Broadway) from 4-8 pm • Saturday, June 5 at Pelican Bay Aquatic Center (1034 North Bryant Avenue) from 12-4 pm For residents that cannot attend the community events there is an online option on June 3 at 6:30 pm. To join the community check-in, please register at: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_mxvX8gP0T6aJLzX ZW2SIww. Please visit the project website at https://eastedmond2050plan.com to find other input opportunities, additional project information or to sign up for email updates. Additional information about the East Edmond 2050 Plan is also available by contacting Long Range Planner Ken Bryan at ken.bryan@edmondok.com.

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

Learning of 123s, ABCs, and STEM" • Ms. Toni at Heritage Elementary School for the project "Articulation Sensation!"

• Mrs. Ray at Ida Freeman Elementary School for the project "Computer Programming Principles Through Fun Game Play!"

• Mrs. Schmiedeberg at Northern Hills Elementary School for the project "Soaring With Scholastic News" • Mrs. Dile at West Field Elementary School for the project "Art is Good for the HeART" "Teachers took this past year head-on, engineering a variety of innovative methods to keep their students learning in both in-person and virtual classrooms," said Lori Abou Habib, chief marketing officer for Sonic. "We express our gratitude to teachers like these, who create inspirational learning environments for students during a challenging time. With SONIC's $1.5 million donation match, we were able to help teachers access much-need supplies to successfully complete this school year."

SONIC is committed to helping teachers now in this time of need, and all year long.

Through Limeades for Learning, SONIC has donated more than $19 million to public school teachers, helping more than 36,000 teachers and impacting nearly 7.4 million students in public schools nationwide since 2009. Visit LimeadesforLearning.com to learn about future funding opportunities and explore public school teacher requests in your local community in need of support.

Page 4 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Purchase or develop: It’s complicated In a council meeting where events have been described as a “royal mess,” a date was set for the election for a proposed ¼ cent sales tax increase. If passed, the money would be used to purchase 22 acres of land adjacent to Hafer Park which could lead to the parks expansion and stop any further development issues that have plagued the land for several Ray Hibbard years.

On April 26, the land was zoned for a multi-use development including what is called mansion homes. They are like condos but are rented instead of purchased. There was also a small retail component to the project. Traffic and possible impact on Hafer Park have been reasons for objection to the zoning. The election date is Oct. 12, 2021.

What should have been a great solution to the land and a process that would let Edmond voters decide once and for all what happens to this property got complicated. Another group of residents exercised their right to file a referendum petition calling for a vote to resend the zoning that was passed in April. The developer who owns the land agreed to delay the development until after the election.

Should the petition get enough signatures to put the issue on the ballot, it could appear on the October 12th ballot with the sales tax. Then you get a bevy of what if’s that blow your mind. All there is to do at this point is hope the petition does not get enough signatures to go to the vote. Then, voters could decide in October what they want done with this piece of land; develop or purchase by the city and added to the park system.

Nixon gave us Father’s Day Well, not really but he made Father’s Day an official national holiday in 1972. If you are keeping score, Mother’s Day was made a national holiday in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson. Wilson approved a resolution that made the second Sunday in May a holiday in honor of “that tender, gentle army, the mothers of America.” Much of the delay Father’s Day was our fault guys. Father’s Day 2021 will occur on Sunday, June 20. There are 72.2 million fathers in the United States.

Thanks in large part to this association with retailers, who saw great potential for profit in the holiday, Mother’s Day caught on right away. In 1909, 45 states observed the day before it was

made a national holiday. The campaign to celebrate the nation’s fathers did not meet with the same enthusiasm–perhaps because, as one florist explained, “fathers haven’t the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.” Wow, was that ever an understatement.

Many men, however, continued to disdain the idea of Father’s Day. As one historian writes, they “scoffed at the holiday’s sentimental attempts to domesticate manliness with flowers and gift-giving, or they derided the proliferation of such holidays as a commercial gimmick to sell more products– often paid for by the father himself.”

During the 1920s and 1930s, a movement arose to scrap Mother’s Day and Father’s Day altogether in favor of a single holiday, Parents’ Day. Every year on Mother’s Day, pro-Parents’ Day groups rallied in New York City’s Central Park–a public reminder, said Parents’ Day activist and radio performer Robert Spere, “that both parents should be loved and respected together.” Not giving mothers their special day ranks among the dumbest ideas, ever.

The Great Depression derailed this effort to combine and de-commercialize the holidays. Struggling retailers and advertisers redoubled their efforts to make Father’s Day a “second Christmas” for men, promoting goods such as neckties, hats, socks, pipes and tobacco, golf clubs and other sporting goods, and greeting cards. We now spend $25 million annually on Mother’s Day compared to $16 million for Father’s Day. In 1972, in the middle of a hard-fought presidential re-election campaign, Richard Nixon signed a proclamation making Father’s Day a federal holiday at last. The act did not seem to help President Nixon later in his career.

I always enjoyed taking time out to celebrate my dad. Now that he is no longer with us, I still take the time to think about how great my father was and try and give him credit for anything good that I have accomplished. However, it is no surprise that we dads are good with our holiday being below the fold as it were. Here is why: For one, we all know it is moms who deserve all the credit for raising the children. We dads try but mothers are the most under appreciated group of folks in the world. Moms know how to get stuff done and they handle all the assignments that we dads are fearful of doing like cleaning up after a kid with a stomach virus. Moms are smart too. We dads, not so much.

We dads are pretty simple folk. Nothing compli-

House From Page 3 Required passage of U.S. Civics Test to graduate high school (HB 2030) Banned teaching critical race theory in public school classrooms (HB 1775) Tax relief Reduced personal income tax by .25% for all taxpayers (HB 2962) Reduced corporate income tax from 6% to 4% (HB 2960, HB 2961, HB 2963) Budget Set state record for common education appropriations (HB 2900) Replenished savings to record $1.3 billion No functional budget reduction for any agency Funded Medicaid expansion per SQ 802 (SB 1045) Restored one-time pandemic changes to pension and transportation funds States’ Rights

Established constitutional process to challenge federal overreach (HB 1236) Expanded pro-life policies (HBs 2441, 1102, SBs 918, 778, 779) Protected churches from infringement of constitutional worship rights (HB 2648, SB 368) Protected female sports (SB 2) Supported more Second Amendment protections (HB 1630, SB 631) Government & Elections Modernized civil service system to improve state government workforce (HB 1146) Addressed issues surrounding driver’s license backlogs (HB 1059, SB 1057) Completed fair, transparent, constitutional legislative redistricting plan (HB 1198, SB 1066) Add extra day of in-person early voting (HB 2663) Improved state questions by disclosing fiscal impacts, allowing recounts (SB 947, HB 2564)

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.

cated about being a dad. You just love your children, know how to give them the “look” when needed and do what their mom says to make your life perfect. Shinning the spotlight on us for an entire Sunday is more attention than we deserve.

Maybe they could change it to Father’s Hour instead of devoting an entire day to us.

I think moms are like this as well in that dads do not need expensive gifts. Retailers will not like this but all we really want is some time with our family. All I look for on Father’s Day is a hug from the kids that are in town and a call from those that are not. Some of them are dads and they get busy as well. We dads do not want to put extra pressure on our kids, but we just want to see them when possible.

My kids are great year-round. If I need help doing something, here they come. Clark is my mechanical engineer, and his job is to worry about me falling trying to do something mechanical around the house. He knows what a disaster I am at it. If I send this text, he comes right over: “Hey buddy, looking for a sledgehammer but if you don’t have one, I can use the neighbor’s.” That or any mention of me getting on a ladder makes him hurry right over.

Anytime I give a little help in one way or another to my kids they keep thanking me. I appreciate that but all I tell them is that it is what we dads do. My dad did it. He was always on call for me including after I was grown. We dads hang out in the garage, listen to AM radio, and wait for the ask. I am totally cool with it.

When my kids were little, they wanted to make me breakfast in bed just like they had their mom on Mother’s Day. They woke me up and the gang scurried off to make me breakfast. I sat up in bed, read the paper and waited for what might me coming. After an hour went by, I heard the noises of eating and the clanging of dishes. The kids and their mother had gotten busy making breakfast and sat down to eat forgetting about old dad. It just made me laugh. I went into the kitchen and just sat down and started eating with them.

While we dads appreciate the day and the attention, know it is reward enough being a dad. You make us laugh and proud at the same time. And, if that is not enough, we get pleasure in thinking of ways to embarrass you in front of your friends.

(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.

---- Weekend Calendar of Events ......................................................Page 8.

---- Medicaid expansion coming ........................................................Page 9.

---- Columnist looks at infrastructure woes ......................................Page 10.

---- Elaine Warner explores Okla. museum ......................................Page 12.

---- UCO news..................................................................................Page 13.

---- George Gust reviews film ‘Cruella ..............................................Page 14.

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

---- Church directory ........................................................................Page 19.

This, and much more, in this week’s edition!

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 • June 3, 2021 • Page 5

Page 6 • June 3, 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.)

May 17 David James Stewart, 21 of Guthrie. Charged with assault - resisting arrest and misdemeanor warrant.

Cory Osceola Dubose, 34 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear.

Dayshia Lavetty Whygle, 20 homeless. False representation to an officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

William Joseph Kelin, 29 homeless.

Possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Marshall Shawn Williams 58 homeless. Larceny from a building, possess drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS. Relles Hernandez, 50 homeless.

Obstruction of a police officer, public intoxication and possession of CDS. Calvin Maurice Owens, 41 homeless. Failure of pedestrian to yield and obstruction of a police officer.

Bailey Michele Ludlum, 28 of Edmond. Possession of CDS, (felony)

larceny of merchandise from a retailer and failure to appear.

Brian Kendall Dochow, 31 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Charles Derek Hodges, 30 homeless. Failure to appear.

Blake Matthew Cariker, 31 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

child) and domestic abuse assault (strangulation.)

Edward Anthony Runnels, 38 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

May 18 Jaquietta Lynette Franklin, 31 of Oklahoma City. Possession of CDS, obstruction of a police officer, assault and battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff and burglary in the second degree.

Todd Jeffrey Vermillion, 45 of Blanchard. Three counts of failure to appear.

Chase Allen Wilds, 30 homeless.

Misdemeanor warrant, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS.

May 20 Elizabeth Ann Knight, 44 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Katriana Alexandria Baty, 31 of Edmond. Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and possession of CDS. Michael Andrew Stevens, 28 of Oklahoma City. Non-assault resisting officer, expired tag - over three months, speeding (15 MPH over), no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Kyle Matthew Short, 29 of Choctaw. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and reckless driving.

May 19 Donna Ellen Smith, 51 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or a combination of CDS. Tonya Jean Lesseg, 48 homeless.

Failure to appear.

John Bennett Okeefe, 55 of Edmond. Interruption, disruption, interference with emergency phone call, (misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault (in the presence of a minor

May 21 Shaquille Terrelle Webster, 27 homeless. Non-assault resisting officer, public intoxication and failure to appear.

Tyce Ovis Thompson, 23 of Chandler. Leaving the scene of an accident unattended vehicle and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .15 or more.

Erin Cheryl Van Zetten, 47 of Okla-

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homa City. Shoplifting and false representation to an officer.

Christopher Lamone Denson, 51 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear.

Robert James Kerlin, 28 of Edmond. Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or CDS. May 22 Hugo Jesus Pena, 25 of Oklahoma City. Domestic abuse assault (dangerous weapon.)

Wade Matthew Iven, 35 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Anthony J. Stovall, 45 of Edmond.

Public intoxication.

Oscar Rodriguez-Rios, 57 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

May 23 Tamara Sherre Cohran, 53 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Roger Tran, 32 of Edmond. Transporting open container of intoxicating beverage of beer and felony DUI/APC. Henry Angel Nava, 32 of El Monte, Calif. Public intoxication.

Clayton John Phillip Blair, 37 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear.

Erick Dawayne Harrison-Hagler, 28 of Cushing, Okla. Public intoxication.

Edmond Public Schools obtains record low-interest bond rate The Edmond Board of Education accepted a bid for the sale of $52M in bonds at a special meeting on May 27, securing the lowest interest rate ever obtained by the district. Huntington Securities of Chicago, Illinois was the bid winner with an interest rate of 0.54 percent.

“The combination of the current low-interest-rate environment and our credit quality and solid financial position contributed to receiving such a low interest rate on our largest single bond sale,” said Chief Financial Officer Lori Smith. “What this means for taxpayers is lower costs associated

with the financing of the projects approved in the bond election earlier this month,” said Smith.

On May 11, voters approved a $65M bond issue that will fund the construction of school additions, school improvements, curriculum and technology. The $52M to Huntington Securities is the first of two bond sales.

Standard & Poor’s rating services recently reaffirmed the district’s AA+ bond rating citing strong finances, maintenance of good reserves and low overall debt with rapid principal amortization.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 3, 2021 • Page 7

Senate leaders hail legislative session The first regular session of the 58th Legislature adjourned Sine Die on Thursday with Senate leaders calling it a big success overall for Oklahoma.

“What a difference a year makes!

We prioritized and invested in public education, we delivered tax relief for families and businesses, made significant investments in economic diversification efforts, and managed to put more than $800 million toward the state’s savings. Additionally, we passed pro-life measures to protect life at all stages, increased access to quality health care for Oklahomans, and found ways to modernize government in different areas. It has been a tremendous session and positions Oklahoma for continued growth and success as we emerge from the global pandemic,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City.

“I think this has been one of the most successful sessions in my legislative career,” said Senate Majority Floor Leader Kim David, R-Porter.

“Senate Republicans enacted common-sense, conservative policies to protect and expand the rights of our citizens, and we passed meaningful education reforms that will benefit students and families across Oklahoma. I’m proud of how the Senate led the way in successfully navigating session through pandemic protocols.”

“This year, the budget has money for new behavioral health services for Oklahoma children struggling with mental health issues. The budget adds more than $210 million in additional money to classrooms throughout Oklahoma. We are making serious investments to expand highspeed internet access across the state. When we look at the budget, oftentimes we focus on the numbers.

But we should not lose sight of the real-world impact the budget has on Oklahoma families. This year’s

State Sen. Greg Treat

budget is great for Oklahoma families and puts our state on the path for continued growth,” said Sen. Roger Thompson, R-Okemah, and chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

2021 Legislative Highlights Fiscal Year 2022 state budget, which cut taxes, saved $800 million, and included $210 million in additional funding for public education.

Reducing the personal income tax rate to 4.75 percent from 5 percent Reducing the corporate income tax rate to 4 percent from 6 percent Increasing the Equal Opportunity Scholarship program caps to $50 million ($25 million for public schools/$25 million for private schools) (SB 1080, Treat) More than $15.5 million for rural infrastructure projects $9.9 million for the creation of a children’s mental health unit at OU Health. $10 million in funding for the Attorney General’s Office to fight federal overreach (HB 1236, Treat), represent the state in legal issues related to McGirt, and investigate and monitor land purchases in Oklahoma by foreign nationals. $30 million for a film tax incentive to spur more projects and investment. $42 million in incentives for the ex-

‘We prioritized and invested in public education, we delivered tax relief for families and businesses, made significant investments in economic diversification efforts, and managed to put more than $800 million toward the state’s savings.

Additionally, we passed pro-life measures to protect life at all stages.’

pansion of broadband service in underserved and unserved areas statewide. $35 million in economic development funding to recruit new jobs.

Restoration of the Earned Income Tax Credit refundability, which provides tax relief to low- and moderateincome working families.

Renewal of the Open Meeting Act pandemic exemptions (SB 1031, Treat) Gave parents the ability to seek the right educational opportunity for their student by updating the Education Open Transfer Act (SB 783, Pugh) Ensured education dollars follow the student and gave schools more flexibility in using carryover funding (HB 2078, Taylor).

Modernized and reformed the state’s civil service system (HB 1146, Treat) Protected the sanctity of life through pro-life reforms Restoring Oklahoma’s prohibition on abortion if Roe v Wade is overturned (SB 918, Treat) Adding performance of an abortion under state statutes for “unprofessional conduct,” with exceptions for the life or significant physical impairment of the mother. (HB 1102, Daniels) Requiring abortionists to be board certified in obstetrics and gynecology

(HB 1904, Garvin) Prohibiting an abortion once a fetal heartbeat is detected, (HB 2441, Daniels) Providing safeguards surrounding the use of abortion-inducing drugs, (SB 778 and SB 779, Daniels).

Made Oklahoma a Second Amendment Sanctuary State (SB 631, Hamilton) Updated the Oklahoma Religious Freedom Act to ensure religious institutions cannot be deemed “non-essential.” (SB 368/HB 2648 Bullard) Prohibited the teaching of critical race theory in Oklahoma schools (HB 1775, Bullard) Protected Oklahoma ratepayers by securitizing $4.5 billion in unexpected utility bills after the February winter storm. (SB 1049, SB 1050, Thompson) Provided a long-term funding solution for provider rates by incrementally increasing the Supplemental Hospital Offset Payment Program (SHOPP) Passed a Senate redistricting plan with strong bipartisan support that incorporated input solicited from the public during an open and transparent redistricting process.

Stabilized increasing Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) funds to protect providers during future potential decreases in federal assistance.

Page 8 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Weekend Calendar of Events June 3-6 ---- In the Gallery: Rae Stone ---- Gallery Opening: Rae Stone ---- What’s Cooking, Edmond?

---- VIRTUAL:: Edmond’s African American History ---- Concert in the Park: Michael Fresonke & Jokers to the Right ---- VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience ---- Arcadia Lake Kids Fishing Derby ---- Edmond Art Association Spring Show and Sale ---- Inaugural ODOT Memorial Foundation Sporting Clay Event ---- Opening Day at Pelican Bay Aquatic Center ---- Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Celtic Throne: The Royal Journey of Irish Dance ---- Kids Take Over the Cowboy – Animal Tracks: What’s Left Behind ---- Signature Tour ---- Redbud Spectacular Horse Show ---- NCAA Women’s College World Series ---- Live from the Lawn presents: Jimmy ‘Duck’ Holmes with Mike Munson ---- First Friday Gallery Walk ---- Stockyards City Made in Oklahoma Pop Up Market ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: German Dexterity & Panache ---- Junek Utopia Extra Information In the Gallery: Rae Stone Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Free; featuring the art of Brad McNeill; edmondfinearts.com Gallery Opening: Rae Stone Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Thu, June 3; Free; 5 – 8 p.m.; ed-

Extra Info: Sat, June 5; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.; pelicanbayaquatics.com

mondfinearts.com What’s Cooking, Edmond?

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: through Tue, Aug 31; Free; edmondhistory.org VIRTUAL: Edmond’s African American History Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: through Fri, Dec 31; edmondhistory.org Concert in the Park: Michael Fresonke & Jokers to the Right Location: Hafer Park & A.C. Caplinger Ball Fields Extra Info: Thu, June 3; Free; 6:15 – 9 p.m.; edmondok.com VIBES: Downtown Edmond’s Art Experience Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Thu, June 3; Free; 5 – 9 p.m.; edmondvibes.org Arcadia Lake Kids Fishing Derby Location: Arcadia Lake Extra Info: Sat, June 5; Free; 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.; edmondok.com Edmond Art Association Spring Show and Sale Location: Spring Creek Plaza Extra Info: Sat, June 5; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Facebook Inaugural ODOT Memorial Foundation Sporting Clay Event Location: Silverleaf Shotgun Sports Extra Info: Sat, June 5; 9 a.m.; Facebook Opening Day at Pelican Bay Aquatic Center Location: Pelican Bay Aquatic Center

Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: Festival Market Place Extra Info: Sat, June 5; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; edmondok.com Celtic Throne: The Royal Journey of Irish Dance Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Sun, June 6; 2 p.m.; $30 ---- $55; armstrongauditorium.vbotickets.com Kids Take Over the Cowboy – Animal Tracks: What’s Left Behind Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, June; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, June 5 & Sun, June 6; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Redbud Spectacular Horse Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: Thu, June 3 – Sun, June 13; 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily; okqha.org NCAA Women’s College World Series Location: USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium Extra Info: Thu, June 3 – Wed, June 9; ncaa.com Live from the Lawn presents: Jimmy ‘Duck’ Holmes with Mike Munson Location: Scissortail Park

Mortgage Matters

Down payment discussion

By Kenneth Wohl RCB Bank How much money you need for a down payment on a house depends on your budget and what type of loan you apply for. You may have heard that 20% down is what you Wohl need, but that is simply a preferred number, not a requirement for many lenders. If you are able to put 20% down it will reduce your monthly mortgage payments and will likely allow you to avoid a Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) every month.

However, many borrowers do not have 20% down. Here are some of your options if you do not have a large down payment for your house.

House Down Payments with No Money Down USDA Loan If you are considering a home in a suburban or rural area, the U.S Department of Agriculture Rural Development loans offer up to 100% financing to qualified homes in eligible areas. Since USDA loans are federally backed, they often have interest rates lower than conventional loans as well. You may also be surprised to find what the USDA considers a rural area. According to the 2017 USDA Rural Development Performance Report, nearly 72% of the nation’s land mass is rural. You can see if your area qualifies on the map linked here.

VA Loan If you are an active or retired United States military service member, as well as some reserves, you can potentially get 100% mortgage financing through the Department of Veteran Affairs. In fact, nearly 90% of all VA backed home loans are made without a down payment. You will still need to do a certificate of eligibility and may have to finance a VA funding fee into your mortgage, but overall, VA loans are some of the best mortgage deals out there.

Low Cost Down Payment Options for a House Conventional 97 Loan A few years ago, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac started offering a Conventional 97 loan that only requires a 3% down payment for first-time homebuyers. This loan has no income limits, but tighter restrictions than conventional loans and it carries

higher interest rates. To receive a Conventional 97 loan, you will need a strong credit score, reliable income and employment, and a debt-to-income ratio under 43% (in most cases). The property must be your primary residence. This includes a single-family home, a condo, planned unit development or co-op. If you are not a first-time homebuyer, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac also offer 97% loans with lower interest rates and mortgage premiums, however these are limited by income.

FHA Loan The Federal Housing Administration offers mortgage loans with as little down as 3.5%. FHA loans do require a mortgage insurance premium. This is charged to the borrower two different ways; as a one-time fee of 1.75% of the loan amount and as a monthly premium.

The duration and cost of your MIP may last for the duration of the loan.

However, you do have the option to refinance your home at any point after you close the mortgage. This may be especially helpful when you have paid 20% of the home’s value and can get a new loan that does not require mortgage insurance. Similar to the Conventional 97 loan, there are no income limits, the home must be your primary residence.

The loan you choose will depend on your financial situation, how much you have to put down and where you want to buy a home. It is always a good idea to talk with a lender before deciding what loans to choose. I am here to help, even if you are not an RCB Bank customer. Feel free to call me at 405.608.5291 or email me at kwohl@bankrcb.net.

Sources VA Home Loan Types | Veterans Affairs Welcome to Rural Development | Rural Development (usda.gov) Federal Housing Administration | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of Kenneth Wohl and meant for generic illustration purposes only. For specific questions regarding your personal lending needs, please call RCB Bank at 855-BANKRCB. With approved credit. Some restrictions apply. RCB Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and member FDIC. RCB Bank NMLS #798151. Kenneth Wohl NMLS #453934.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 3, 2021 • Page 9

Edmond’s Wade graduates from School for the Blind

Austin Wade

Edmond native, Austin Wade, graduated from the Oklahoma School for the Blind on May 20, 2021. He is the Salutatorian for this year’s class.

After graduation, Wade plans to get his associate degree in culinary arts from OSU IT. He is the son of Joshua and Tiffany Wade.

This year’s graduating class also includes Johnnie Davidson of Rush Springs, Nathan England of Jenks, Morgan Hudson of Kansas, Joseph Rodriguez of Fletcher, Levi Smith of Collinsville and Austin Wade of Edmond.

“We had an extraordinary group of seniors,” Rita Echelle, OSB superintendent, said. “Through this year of adversity, they persevered and accomplished so much.

They were flexible in their mode of education whether it was in-person or virtual and completed their high school education.

“I am proud of each and every student in the senior class of 2021. I know they will be productive members of society in years to come.”

This year’s commencement had a special treat for the

students and staff. The keynote speaker was Class of 1971 Alumnus Jane Thomas. It has been 50 years since she walked the halls as a student and knows their hopes and their fears.

She urged OSB graduates to build lives that include joy, success and fulfillment. She encouraged them to be examples in society so people will know about blind people and what they can do.

OSB is a division of the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), a state agency, which assists Oklahomans with disabilities through vocational rehabilitation, education, employment, independent living programs and the determination of medical eligibility for disability benefits.

OSB was founded in 1897 at Fort Gibson as a private school for children who are blind or visually impaired. Over the past 100 years, the school has provided education programs at no charge for thousands of students with visual disabilities, from students who attend school on campus to those served through outreach programs for families, public school teachers and communities statewide.

State getting ready for Medicaid expansion

By Alana Owen, BS Community Health Centers of Oklahoma Certified Case Manager & BH Wellness Coach Last June, Oklahomans voted to expand SoonerCare eligibility to adults ages 19 to 64 whose income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level.

Doctors’ offices will begin seeing newly insured patients across Oklahoma when the expansion takes effect on July 1, 2021.

“The Medicaid expansion program is expected to provide medical coverage for approximately 200,000 new patients in the state according to a study from the Oklahoma Health Care Authority,” said Isabella Lawson, CEO for Community Health Centers of Oklahoma. “Applications will be accepted starting June 1, 2021 and our case managers are ready to assist in the application process,” said Isabella. “We encourage everyone to visit our website at www.communityhealthok.com for our convenient and eligibility details,” added Isabella.

The benefits under the expansion program will be the same as the current SoonerCare program. The application process will provide eligibility status immediately so individuals will know if they qualify for the coverage.

Under the new program, the income guidelines allow children and pregnant women to stay on SoonerCare at higher income levels. For self-employed individuals and independent contractors, reported income is based on net income (after business deductions), and the unemployed (no income) may qualify even if they do not have children in their household.

The income guidelines are posted as estimates on the state-run website at www.MySoonerCare.org or by calling the SoonerCare Helpline at 1.800.887.7767. People are being encouraged to apply even if they have been denied in the past or if their income is higher than the stated limitations. Pre-existing conditions are covered for future treatment under the expansion program. The Medicaid expansion program is encouraging those that

PHOTO PROVIDED

Be assisted by a Case Manager at your Community Health Centers of Oklahoma location.

do not qualify to reach out to the Health Insurance Marketplace for possible eligibility as an additional option. For more information, you may log on to the website and create an account and apply online. The SoonerCare helpline phone number is 800-987-7767. To access further information about the program, eligibility, and income guidelines you may access the Oklahoma Health Care Authority’s website at https://oklahoma.gov/ohca.

Page 10 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side Infrastructure challenges Mandatory COVID shots People’s frame of mind is now firmly in the summer mode.

Once Memorial Day has gone by then everyone’s thoughts shift to suntan lotion.

Somebody please give the utility compa- Steve Gust nies a heads up.

The weather will be getting toasty over the next few months. Will Oklahoma experience rolling blackouts like they had in California last year?

I hope not.

This year, and last year, haven’t been great times for our infrastructure. We had the October ice storm and weeks without power. Then there was the February arctic blast.

We all remember that as well.

And don’t forget the computer hack done on the oil pipeline a few weeks ago. That led to gas lines back east.

Ah the good old days of gas lines.

I tend to hold my breath whenever a strong rain storm rolls on in. My first thought when it rains heavily is

where is my electric bill so I have the number to call for a power blackout and can also give them my account number.

We need to put the utility companies on warning now. It’s going to get hot and there will be a demand on energy to cool our homes.

I hope someone is making plans now and not just getting ready to pay pirate prices to independent energy suppliers.

It’s odd.

I don’t remember this many power problems in the past.

And please know, I have respect for the people who provide power and especially those who repair it.

Those folks work around the clock when the power goes out.

I remember one year, it was about 3 in the morning and there was a crew in my back yard working hard.

That’s a tough job.

I still hope we can get through the summer with the power we need and people aren’t stuck with a massive bill for it.

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

in schools concern lawmakers The Oklahoma State House, shortly before adjournment, passed a bill that would prohibit public schools, colleges, universities or CareerTech centers from implementing mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations as a condition for admittance and from requiring only non-vaccinated populations to wear masks.

Senate Bill 658 is authored by Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, and Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman.

The measure also requires the State Department of Education and school districts to provide in any notice or publication provided to parents regarding

immunization requests the immunization requirements of the school, including the requirement to either provide current, up-todate immunization records or a signed and completed exemption form.

“Should the force of government be used to force citizens to do something they don’t want to do, or should it be used to empower the rights of citizens,” West asked. “This protects a student’s and a parent’s right to choose for themselves whether a vaccination is appropriate for them for their own personal health reasons or their religious or personal beliefs. This disallows

discrimination against students and parents that choose to be exempt from such vaccinations.”

West said the measure is necessary as there has been a push for public schools and higher education institutions to require a vaccination against COVID-19 as a requirement for admittance or to require documentation that such a vaccine has been received in the form of a “vaccine passport.”

“For the sake of children throughout the state, I’m glad this bill is one step closer to becoming law,” Standridge said. “With this legislation, vaccine passports for Oklahoma students will not exist.”

Additionally, the measure provides that a board of education for a school district or technology school district may only implement a mandate to wear a mask or any other medical device after consultation with the local county health department or citycounty health department.

Such a mandate must explicitly list the reasons for the mandate and shall reference the specific masks or medical devices that would meet the requirements of the mandate. Any mandate to implement wearing a mask or any other medical device shall be reconsidered at each regularly scheduled board meeting.

SB 658 in its final form passed the House with a vote of 76-18. It now moves to the governor for his consideration.

Lankford criticizes liberal attacks on energy mate change, and he raised

By Sen. James Lankford the issue and importance of Senator James Lankford (Renergy diversity in the US, inOK) last week raised strong cluding the geopolitical signifconcerns with Chairman icance of Russia’s ongoing Wyden’s bill, the Clean Energy push for energy leverage in for America Act. In the Senate Europe through the Nord Finance Committee markup, Stream 2 pipeline. In March, Committee Democrats today Lankford sent a letter to Presbrought a renewed push to Lankford ident Biden urging him to foltry to “cancel” traditional enlow the law and impose those ergy and only incentivize insanctions. Lankford also recently led vestment in renewable and “clean” energy options. Lankford pointed out a group of 25 senators to press the Federal Energy Regulatory Commishow the recent extreme weather event in Oklahoma and the region in sion (FERC) to act on vital energy infrastructure projects by immediately February left usually reliable renewreviewing natural gas pipeline perable energy sources frozen and mits. forced Oklahomans to rely on coal Lankford introduced Domestic for a time, instead of our largely diManufacturing Protection Act, which verse energy portfolio. would prevent the Environmental ProLankford participated in a Senate tection Agency (EPA) from issuing Finance Committee hearing on cli-

Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

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

any new greenhouse gas (GHG) emission rules or regulations until China and Russia adhere to the same emission reduction targets of the Paris Agreement as required by the United States. In a recent Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing, Lankford focused his questions on nuclear energy, noting that to get to zero emissions by 2050 using nuclear power, over 100 nuclear energy facilities would have to be built. In March in the Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Lankford noted how long it takes to build the necessary infrastructure that supports renewable energy sources that can meet the Americans’ energy needs.

Lankford also penned a recent oped on why cancelling traditional energy is not a viable solution to meet Americans’ energy needs.

Transcript It’s been interesting. The Chairman and I have had this conversation on the floor and several of us have. If I’m going to pull the crystal ball out and fast forward five hours from now or so, we’re going to have a 14 to 14 vote, and we’ll be locked up on this issue. I think it’s good that we can talk about it. I have to tell you, from a state like mine that is a truly all-ofthe-above state, with a diverse energy portfolio, this kind of dialogue makes us nervous, not because we’re

an oil-and-gas state and we’re enslaved to oil-and-gas folks—and the ‘dark money’ is rushing at us and we’re unrestrained…

And in that situation, our wind towers froze up, condensate coming out of natural gas well froze up, we have a lot of hydro—we accelerated the use of hydro. Our solar panels were covered in snow, and we were in a situation that’s very unusual for us in the Southwest Power Pool to be using a majority of coal. That’s not normal for us.

We use a majority of wind. Unlike some other states, we use a lot of wind in our state, and while other states talk about it, we actually do it.

And that’s a major part of our portfolio. The fear for this is, in those peak moments, we’re about to disincentivize creating fuels and maintaining facilities that will carry us through those moments. And on the most dangerous days, when it’s hottest, when it’s coldest, what we’ll be dependent on is intermittent because the investments are not there. Now it’s not just restrictions or mandates.

We all know around this group because we track it all the time, if you disincentivize certain areas, capital stops flowing to areas. So you stop getting capital to maintain pipelines.

You stop getting capital to build new natural gas facilities.

And in this dialogue for a while,

See Lankford, Page 11

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 3, 2021 • Page 11

Have a plan to deal with bad weather Weather today is challenging, and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) reminds home and business owners that it’s important to make sure you have the right outdoor power equipment on hand and to keep equipment in good working order year-round.

A chainsaw or pole pruner can trim limbs ahead of a storm or handle fallen limbs helping to clear debris. A generator will power appliances and keep lights on and cell phones charged when the electricity goes out. A water pump can help with flooding in your home or basement. A utility vehicle can be maneuverable and is smaller than a car, helping transport people and supplies quickly in an emergency.

Today’s outdoor power equipment is increasingly easier to use, more efficient and cleaner -- and powered in a variety of ways, including battery/electric, hybrids, propane, and solar as well as gasoline and diesel. Even robotic, interconnected and remote-controlled technology has entered the power equipment market.

“We’ve experienced a lot of problematic weather lately but, thankfully, there is a product and power source for every need and to address every scenario. Being prepared for the unpredictable is easier than ever before,” said Kris Kiser, President & CEO of OPEI, an international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of outdoor power equipment, small engines, battery power systems, portable generators, utility and personal transport vehicles, and golf cars.

OPEI offers the following tips to help home and business owners: Get ready in advance. Before a disaster or storm strikes is the best time to buy outdoor power equipment. You never know when the electricity might go out or when a storm might arise.

Know your needs. Determine what might need to be cleaned up or tidied before severe weather arrives. Decide what equipment is needed to keep people and property safe before and after a disaster or power outage.

Do research. Outdoor power equipment has changed a lot from what you might remember from year’s past. The industry is rapidly innovating

with equipment becoming faster, lighter, more efficient, more ergonomic and cleaner. Get their recommendations from dealers and store personnel who are well versed in equipment.

Buy what fits your needs. Each equipment type and power source has different maintenance and care requirements. Equipment is sized for different levels of need, so it’s important to buy what works for your unique situation.

Think ahead and purchase accessories. Buy outdoor-rated extension cords for generators, and consider getting an approved cover for your generator for rainy weather. Buy and install a carbon monoxide detector if purchasing a generator. Plan now where the generator will be set up (never in a home or garage, and always away from your home

Lankford From Page 10 we’ve talked about natural gas as a bridge fuel, and now suddenly natural gas is evil. I have to tell you, I’m trying to track where we go in this dialogue, and I’m hopeful for a positive dialogue. But my fear is at the end of the day, I’ll be called a ‘climate change denier,’ and you’ll be called a ‘reality denier,’ because when we’re driving vehicles, 98 percent of them right now are running on gas, not running on electricity. And if we shut off all that flow towards that, that’s going to continue to raise prices on those that can’t afford it the most.

And if the push is going to be towards electric vehicles, to say, ‘Every-

body just needs to shift to electric,’ I’d love for you to tell the folks that are working every day, because the electric vehicle in the manufacturing location are not being driven by the folks working on the line, they’re being driven by the folks in the office at the corner. And so they’re not available to everyone.

So I hope we can have a realistic conversation about what’s really happening and about how we can deal with fuel options and keep diverse fuel options and not try to disincentivize us from actually maintaining what we’re going to need as a country.

and any air intake) and determine how to secure it if necessary. Identify safety equipment needed like chaps, eye protection or hearing protection. Gasoline-powered outdoor power equipment uses E10 or less fuel and most manufacturers recommend adding a fuel stabilizer.

Purchase appropriate fuel and charge batteries just ahead of a storm. Only use an approved fuel container for gasoline, and have an extra set of batteries on hand.

Review manufacturer’s directions and maintain your equipment. Always follow all safety and usage recommendations made by the manufacturer. Save a digital copy of the owner’s manual on your computer if possible, so it can easily be consulted in the future. Set calendar re

Page 12 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

ELAINE WARNER

The architectural design of the museum reflects ancient step pyramids.

Museum of the Red River

The wonders & exhibits of SE Okla. attraction

By Elaine Warner The lush, green woods of southeast Oklahoma provide a number of surprises. Once known as Little Dixie, the area had a reputation as the poorest part of the state. Its major resources were lumber and moonshine. It’s now the state’s recreational hotspot with one of the Elaine state’s most beautiful lakes, rushing streams, classy accommodations and lots of outdoor activities -- and one of Oklahoma’s finest museums, the Museum of the Red River.

Trees provided the roots for the museum. In 1944, Quintus Herron, his father, and uncle founded Herron Industries – the first organization to grow trees as a crop here. The business was situated on Quintus’ mother’s Choctaw allotment.

On a business trip to a tree plantation in the Amazon area of Brazil, Herron met indigenous workers and saw how their lives and culture were impacted by the encroachment of modern industry and civilization.

Quintus and his wife Mary realized that this was happening all over the world. To help the workers and their families, Mary began buying items found in the natives’ homes – pottery and baskets made in traditional ways. The Herrons began collecting seriously to preserve these items. Their collection eventually grew to incorporate items from indigenous cultures from Alaska to the tip of South America.

While Herron had been a casual collector of arrowheads found in southeastern Oklahoma, things took an interesting turn when, in the early ‘60s archaeological studies were being carried out before construction of Broken Bow Lake. This area yielded many items from the Caddo and Mississippian “Cultural Universe.”

The area had been occupied as far back as 12,000 years.

Universities, including Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas, took most of the items. The Herrons, colleagues, and friends felt that some things needed to stay in the area. The idea for the museum was born.

The items found before lake construction and artifacts from the Herron’s personal collection made up the core of the museum’s holdings. Today the museum has grown into a major ethnological museum with artifacts from all the world’s inhabitable continents.

The building itself has grown, too. Its unique architecture, inspired by the Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacan, Mexico, and the Pyramid of the Magician in Uxmal, signals travelers to something special. This is

ELAINE WARNER

The Acrocanthosaurus atokensis skeleton was cast from the bones of the first of the species to be found.

one of Oklahoma’s best museums, although many in the state are not familiar with it.

Guests to the museum are greeted with a large mural depicting indigenous people from parts of the world whose arts are on display in the museum. The spacious lobby area highlights the diversity of the collections with architectural pieces from Nigeria and ladders from New Guinea to “Raven Kachina,” a stained glass and metal construction which pays homage to artist Marvin E. Oliver’s Isleta Pueblo (New Mexico) and Quinault (U.S. northwest coast) heritage.

Nearby is the one exhibit that seems out of place – the cast of the skeleton of an Acrocanthosaurus atokensis. However, this Early Cretaceous creature was as much at home here (145 – 100.5 million years ago) as the much later human inhabitants. This species was first found in this area – about 20 miles from the museum. Of course, kids love it – and the adjacent room with a mounted model Acrocanthosaurus head which lets out impressive roars.

Entering the main exhibit area of the museum, one of the first exhibits is of artifacts found within a 100mile radius of the museum. These pieces were the start and heart of the museum’s collections. Items ranging from large pots to beautifully incised whelk shells display the skills of the Mississippian and Caddo cultures.

ELAINE WARNER

Artfacts in this case were all found within a100 mile-radius of the museum.

While the museum is filled with items from many locations and in a variety of materials, visitors only see a small portion of the museum’s holdings. Approximately 350 of the museum’s 37,000 treasures are on display at any one time. Guests can get a glimpse of many more items through glass walls into the environmentally controlled storage area.

Tours through the museum are self-guided with descriptive panels that provide information about the artifacts. Jack and I were fortunate to be taken through the museum by Henry Moy, Director of the Museum – and we got some interesting insights that weren’t on the display cards.

One of my favorite tidbits concerned two large, ceramic jars from the Conibo-Shipibo peoples of central Peru. While the graphic gave a brief explanation, Henry gave us more details. The Conibo-Shipibo peoples use these jars to make “beer.” But their process and product won’t sell well here. The natives chew grains and spit into the jars until they have the proper level of liquid then add water and let it ferment.

When it’s ready, they push through the foam on top for the brew below.

Henry Moy has been to many parts of the world with his job. And, yes, he was offered this beverage.

He politely imbibed. It’s obviously an acquired taste – which he hasn’t acquired.

Preston Singletary’s glass “Tlingit Crest Hat,” inspired by the wood and bark hats of the people of the Northwest Coast, is an outstanding piece. The hat is displayed upside down so the light illuminates the red glass and casts interesting shadows of the sandblasted designs.

So many favorites here! Another is a pottery parrot created in 2009 by Elias Pena, Mata Ortiz, Mexico.

Made with the traditional coiled pot method, it was smoothed and thinned until it is almost as delicate as an egg shell. I’m also impressed by the delicate and intricate design on the piece.

Ancient fabrics provide another highlight – because of their fragility, they are displayed for limited times, then exchanged for other pieces. One of the pieces on display when we were there was from the south coast of Peru and was almost 2000 years old.

McCurtain County, home to Beavers Bend, has much to recommend it. Not the least is the Museum of the Red River – one of Oklahoma’s true treasures.

You can’t come to the Museum without discovering beautiful and unusual things. It’s worth a trip to southeast Oklahoma just to visit it.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 3, 2021 • Page 13

The University of Central Oklahoma's Jackson College of Graduate Studies (JCGS) hosted its fifth annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. Contestants must demonstrate the value of their master's research to a panel of business community members in three minutes or less, using only one presentation slide. Pictured, left to right, Jeanetta Sims, Ph.D., dean of the Central's JCGS; Leila Murphy, first-place winner; and, Bob Weiss, sponsor of the 3MT and Edmond businessman and owner of Othello's and Around the Corner restaurants.

Murphy wins UCO Graduate College competition The University of Central Oklahoma's Jackson College of Graduate Studies (JCGS) hosted its fifth annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. Contestants must demonstrate the value of their master's research to a panel of business community members in three minutes or less, using only one presentation slide.

Psychology graduate student Leila Murphy won first place and a $1,000 prize for her 3MT presentation titled "A Street Car Named Envy and Aggression."

Sarah Moore, an English major, took home second place and a $500 prize for her presentation titled "Submersion for Women of Color at the 1893 Columbian Exposition."

Kruti Chaliawala, a wellness management-health promotion major, took third place and a $250

prize for her presentation titled "Sexual Health Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior among International Students."

Marisa Franks, a psychology major, took home this year's People's Choice Award and a $250 prize for her presentation titled "The Effects of Pre-Trial Publicity on the Duration of Jury Deliberation."

"We have an outstanding group of graduate students doing quality research on topics that range from rhetorical weapons, the treatment of Black juveniles and sexual health knowledge," said Jeanetta Sims, Ph.D., dean of the Central's JCGS. "The students displayed courage, bravery and commitment while handling nerves to meet competition criteria."

Edmond businessman and owner of Othello's

and Around the Corner restaurants, Bob Weiss, sponsored the event.

The 3MT contest was first held at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. It prepares students to present their research and its relevance to a non-specialist audience in a clear, concise manner, whether in an interview, public event or advocacy setting.

UCO's Jackson College of Graduate Studies collaborates with all five UCO academic colleges and the Forensic Science Institute, offering 40 graduate degree programs and more than 70 different major areas of study.

For more information about the Jackson College of Graduate Studies, visit visit www.uco.edu/graduate.

Page 14 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of movie ‘Cruella’

New film release is wicked good fun

By George Gust Throughout fiction, we are constantly drawn to the villain, with their complex characters and wicked deeds. Disney has a long tradition of playing on this fascination with several strong villains you just love to hate in their vast catalog of animated villains, from a wicked witch with a poison apple to a bombastic octopus sea monster. Now with the streaming wars in full effect and studios scrambling to fill content quotas it seems every iconic character needs to be fleshed with their own limited series (“Loki”) or origin movie (“Joker”), and now the live-action origin of the puppy nabbing fashionista “Cruella.”

Set in the 1970s punk rock scene in London, Disney’s "Cruella,", follows a young grifter named Estella (Emma Stone), a clever and creative girl determined to make a name for herself with her fashion designs. One day, Estella's flair for fashion catches the eye of the Baroness von Hellman (Emma Thompson), a fashion legend who is devastatingly chic and terrifyingly haute. But their relationship sets in motion a course of events and revelations that will cause Estella to embrace her wicked side and become the raucous, fashionable and revenge-bent Cruella.

On paper it seems like “Cruella” is an unneces-

sary story about a comically rotten villain from the 60s, and while the story doesn’t fill any burning questions about the character from the original movie, the film experience of “Cruella” is wicked good fun. For a movie that is all about style and the fashion world, the film is also full of arresting visuals with a broadly arch tone. The look of the film reminds of those edgy 30 second makeup commercials full of striking women in evocative locations with a bold yet recognizable pop song from the past in the background.

For all the slick visual style in “Cruella” the heart and (black) soul of the film sits with the film’s two leading ladies. The most successful sequences in the film come from the rivalry between Stone and

Thompson. Thompson brings a cool and terrifying gravitas to the familiar ruthless fashion icon character (*cough cough* Meryl Streep in “Devil Wears Prada”). And on the other side you get Stone’s live wire performance that rides a jet-black motorcycle on the edge between empathetic young person looking for family and chic madwoman hellbent on revenge and stardom. Their exchanges and conflict bring the right kind of PG-13 enmity for the tone the film is going for.

Overall, “Cruella” is a success story in the category of ‘puzzling origin stories no one asked for’ by being a stylish film that brings in a realism to a cartoon character while retaining a cartoonish tone. The film is perhaps 20 minutes too long and the constant pop music becomes clawing as they play the most obvious needle drops from the era one after another. However, “Cruella” is a PG-13 movie in the most literal sense, as it fits perfectly to be the “Joker” for teens and pre-teens who aren’t already exasperated by yet another instance of an overly literal use of The Rolling Stones “Sympathy for the Devil.”

“Cruella” is rated PG-13 for some violence and thematic elements. Now available in theaters and on Disney+ premium.

3.9 out of 5 stars

PHOTO PROVIDED

Emma Stone brings the iconic Disney villain, Cruella DeVille to life in the live-action origin story ‘Cruella.’

New branding for Goodwill Industries

Answers appearing on Page 19

Following months of discussion and preparation, Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma is excited to unveil a new look for its stores and services to the community. Goodwill’s new slogan, “uncommonly good,” showcases the diverse services offered by the nonprofit.

“We see what can happen when people are given a job. It can completely change their life, and we don’t want them to go down that path alone, which is why we are here to help in every step of the way. This slogan represents all we have to offer to those in need,” Goodwill CEO Jim Priest said. “We aren’t just good. We are uncommonly good.”

Goodwill’s goal is to create more understanding of what it does in the community whether its supporting veterans experiencing homelessness, creating jobs for justice-involved individuals, training those unemployed who need help gaining skills, providing low-cost clothing options to central Oklahoma residents, and offering contract services to Oklahoma businesses to name a few.

Along with the “uncommonly good” slogan is a brand-new website making it easier for people to find jobs, connect Oklahoma companies to contract service opportunities and more.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Night at the Theater

ACROSS 1. *Treble or bass ___ 5. Pharaoh's cobra 8. *Zeus' sister and wife, and character in Broadway musical "Xanadu" 12. Hair-dwelling parasites 13. QuinceaÒera or bat mitzvah, e.g.

14. Puts money in the bank 15. Pearl Harbor locale 16. Flair 17. Inuit boat 18. *Record-holding musical for most awards received by a single production, with The 20. *Broadway hit "Jagged Little ___" 21. *Comment to the audience 22. Web address 23. ____'er ____, at the pump 26. Private chapel 30. Keats' poem 31. Quit 34. Medley 35. ____ ____ or do nothing 37. Right-angle building extension 38. Razor nick 39. Like lemon 40. Make a choice 42. 1960s teen idol, Bobby ____ 43. Give authority 45. Bias crime perpetrators 47. *Theater, e.g.

48. Cordial disposition 50. Surrender 52. *Non-musical with record number of Tony nominations 56. Shredded cabbage dishes 57. *Melpomene, e.g.

58. Just a little 59. Gold unit 60. Lodge fellows 61. "Game of Thrones" bastard 62. Without purpose 63. Past tense of "is" 64. Short-term employee

DOWN 1. Hoof sound 2. Yarn spinner 3. Canyon sound 4. Like medieval European society 5. Was sick 6. Fixed look 7. Montblanc and such 8. *Musical with record number of Tony nominations 9. Like most fairytale stepmothers 10. Madrid's Club de F˙tbol 11. Pose a question 13. Chef's prescription 14. Toyota sports car model 19. Shylock's practice 22. Coffee pot 23. *Bob ____, choreographer with most Tony awards 24. *"Break a leg" or "have two left feet," e.g.

25. Reduce pressure (2 words) 26. Eye up and down 27. Mediterranean appe-

tizer 28. Type of potato masher 29. Ox connectors 32. *Tiresias in "Oedipus Rex," e.g.

33. Feverish 36. *NYC district 38. Washington, e.g.

40. Sun's descent 41. Onion-like herb 44. Seize by force 46. Obsolete office position 48. Spurious wing 49. *Comedy and tragedy, on a Tony medallion 50. Attired 51. *James ____ Jones, multiple Tony winner 52. Old World duck 53. Like Silver's owner 54. H or O in H2O, e.g.

55. Make a raucous noise 56. Mogul equipment"

Answers are found on Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 3, 2021 • Page 15

OMRF & Harvard get $4.1 million to study genetic causes of lupus Gaffney’s lab will investigate The National Institutes of the role of “epigenetic” factors, Health has awarded the Oklathe chemical changes in our homa Medical Research Foundagenome that affect how our tion and Harvard University $4.1 DNA is packaged and exmillion to investigate the role of pressed but do not affect the genetics in the development of underlying genetic sequence. the autoimmune disease lupus.

They’ll also perform a crossOMRF physician-scientist racial analysis to determine Patrick Gaffney, M.D., and Harhow these factors vary in vard researcher Jason BuenAfrican Americans and Eurorostro, Ph.D., received a five-year pean Americans. grant to study how the DNA of “There are substantial gepeople with lupus differs from netic and clinical differences those without the condition. between lupus in people of EuThey will also investigate the disropean and African descent,” tinctions in the genetic makeup said Gaffney. “Understanding of African Americans and Eurohow epigenetics factors into pean Americans with lupus. that may have important impliLupus occurs when the imcations for more personalized mune system becomes unbalDr. Patrick Gaffney patient care.” anced and can affect the skin, At Harvard, Buenrostro’s lab invented and optikidneys, lungs, joints and cardiovascular system.

The disease primarily strikes women and dispropor- mized technologies to better understand how cells tionately affects African Americans, American Indi- change in the presence of a disease such as lupus.

Using these tools, the researchers can create more ans and Latinos. accurate, comprehensive maps of cells of people Risk for the condition is believed to come from changes in our DNA, or genome, said Gaffney, but with lupus. Ultimately, Gaffney hopes they will identify unique epigenetic markers to target in furesearchers don’t understand the cellular mechanture studies, leading to better treatment and earlier ics of why or how. diagnosis for patients.

“In recent years, we’ve made great progress in “Dr. Gaffney’s deep expertise in both the clinical uncovering the genetic changes that predispose and biological facets of lupus has driven this projcertain people to lupus,” said Gaffney, who holds ect to new heights,” said Buenrostro. “This grant the J.G. Puterbaugh Chair in Medical Research at will get us closer to understanding lupus and its OMRF and leads the foundation’s Genes and Human Disease Research Program. “Now we need origins.” The grant, R01 AI156724-01A1, is funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious to go further into the weeds to understand what Diseases, a part of the NIH. these changes do to DNA’s function.”

Tickets are now available for chance to win the St. Jude’s Dream Home Tickets went on sale last week for the 2021 Oklahoma City St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway during a live sellathon on FOX25. Just 9,000 tickets are available to raise $900,000 dollars for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The house is being built by Shaw Homes in Fox Lair Estate and tickets to win the approximately 2,500 square foot house are available now.

The St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway benefits the life-saving work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the world’s premier pediatric cancer research center.

In its 30th year the St Jude Dream Home Giveaway has raised over $550 million dollars by building over 550 houses nationwide. For complete

information about the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway, visit dreamhome.org.

For $100, you have a chance to win this brand new home valued at $495,000 and other great prizes. All tickets reserved by June 3rd will be entered to win a $2,500 grocery shopping spree courtesy of Homeland. Winners will be announced Thursday, August 26 on FOX23. We are expected to sell out!

Tickets can be reserved at dreamhome.org or by calling (800) 592-1596 Other prizes include a private virtual concert and meet & greet with country star Lauren Alaina courtesy of 101.9 The Twister and a 2021 Nissan Sentra SV courtesy of Bob Moore Auto Group.

Having fun were Ada Blankenship, Laura Howells, Randy Kay, guest and Winnie Redwine at Gamma Zeta’s BBQ.

ESA has a barbecue and fellowship A magical night of fantastic barbecue, friends, and fellowship was recently enjoyed by Epsilon Sigma Alpha’s Gamma Zeta chapter. Bill and Pam Fink hosted the event with barbecue pork and barbecue chicken wings with all the trimmings. Because of Covid this was the first time in over a year and a half, members enjoyed a wonderful, weather-perfect social event together. The turnout was great. The food was delicious. The camaraderie was so enjoyable.

Epsilon Sigma Alpha is an international philanthropic organization volunteering hours and monies to 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. Our national project is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tennessee.

Shaw Homes is currently building the St. Jude Dream Home in Fox Lair Estates in Edmond, Ok. Brizo, Shaw Floors, Trane, and Bosch are donating time and materials to build the beautiful 2,566 square foot giveaway house. Sponsors Fox 25 and 101.9 The Twister are also involved. Tickets are $100.00 and are available this June. The Giveaway

ESA members Kathy Roderick, left, and Sandi Robinson

will be at the end of August with all proceeds from this project going to support St. Jude and its mission: Finding cures. Saving Children.

Gamma Zeta looks for energetic people who want to give back to the community; if you would like to join our organization or donate to one of our projects, please call Jacci Gantz at 405-9225954.

Page 16 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Arledge & Associates Q&A

Some tax filing advice for military personnel

By Jen Linstrom Arledge & Associates For the active duty servicemember, moving comes with the job. However, moving states and establishing new legal residencies can turn filing state taxes into a confusing and stressful mess.

I’m active duty stationed at Tinker AFB. Where do I file my state taxes?

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), enacted in 2003, provides certain financial benefits and protections to the servicemember.

One of which is the ability to maintain legal state residency throughout their mil- Lindstrom itary career. Changing duty stations no longer means changing legal residency. The SCRA also states that the servicemember’s military income is taxable only to the resident state. If your resident state is not Oklahoma, you do not pay Oklahoma state tax on your military income.

What about the military member’s spouse?

In an effort to further relieve the financial burden on military families, the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) was passed in 2009

amending the SCRA. Among the amendments, the MSRRA allows a military spouse to maintain their state of legal residence if they have the same original residence as the servicemember. This was further amended in 2018 with the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act (VBTA).

The VTBA allows servicemember’s spouses to claim the same state of legal residence as the servicemember even if they have never lived there.

As long as the military member and their spouse maintain the same resident state, neither have to establish a new residency with each new duty station. The MSRRA also expanded the provision for income from services provided by the spouse to be taxed by the resident state only. This simplifies state tax filings for the servicemember and their spouse when they both have the same state of legal residence.

I live in Oklahoma, but my servicemember spouse and I maintain our legal residence in Arkansas. Do we file an Oklahoma tax return?

Income from services performed by the servicemember’s spouse in Oklahoma is not taxable to Oklahoma. In short, if you are a spouse receiving a W-2, the wages are only taxable to Arkansas. If the W-2 does not report Oklahoma withholding and this is your only income, there is no filing

requirement in Oklahoma. If the W-2 does report Oklahoma withholding, form 511-NR, Oklahoma’s nonresident income tax return, must be filed to request a refund of the taxes held.

Note that this does not apply to a servicemember’s civilian earned income.

I have a job at a local retail store and they are withholding Oklahoma state taxes. Is there anything I can do?

Yes. Form OW-9-MSE is a form that the military spouse can file with their employer to exempt them from Oklahoma withholding tax. The employer may also request that you update the OK W-4 and file as exempt which will allow the employer to forgo Oklahoma withholding.

Does that mean that all income earned in Oklahoma is nontaxable to Oklahoma?

No. The only income protected by the MSRRA is “income for services provided” by the servicemember’s spouse (50 U.S.C 571(a)(2)). Most typically this is income reported on a W-2, but can also include personal service business income such as painters and landscapers. If the spouse runs a home business that makes, buys, or sells goods, this income is taxable to Oklahoma and may also be reportable to the resident state. Rental income earned by

property located in Oklahoma is taxable to Oklahoma.

Although the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, amended by the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act and the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act, has provided some relief of the headache of filing state taxes, it is important to contact your local tax professional to ensure the income earned is being reported correctly.

Jen Lindstrom, CPA, is a tax supervisor at Arledge and Associates, PC, an Edmond-based accounting firm.

Arledge and Associates, PC is a recognized leader in the accounting industry offering practical solutions in the areas of tax planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting. Through its Gateway Executive Solutions division, the firm offers outsourced CFO, controller and cloud-based accounting solutions.

This article contains general information only and does not constitute tax advice or any other professional services. Before making any decisions or taking any action that might affect your income taxes, you should consult a professional tax advisor. This article is not intended for and cannot be used to avoid future penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.

UCO Foundation awards stipends The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation recently awarded Vandad Asadi the Parman Foundation Scholarship, Phoebe Barnes the Parman Foundation Scholarship, Mattison Bullard the Kirkpatrick Service Award, Aaron Cox the Carlos P. Evans Endowed Scholarship, Erica Foster the 2nd Lt. Jered Ewy Endowed Memorial Scholarship, Callie Hambrick the Alpha Gamma Delta Scholarship, Rachel Hunt the Alpha Gamma Delta and Parman Foundation Scholarship, Aditya Kar the Jafar Farzaneh Endowed Scholarship for International Students, Ryan Merrill the Albert J. Wilhite and Beulah M. Wilhite Scholarship, Eeman Noor the Scholarship for First Generation Students, Laura Nurbyek the Rothbaum Scholarship, Reagan Oliver the Forensic Science Institute Endowed Scholarship, Soyoung Pilcher the Robert Aldridge Armed Forces Scholarship, Ana

Savva Garcia the Parman Foundation Scholarship, Amariah Sheffield the Zachary T. Johnson Memorial Scholarship and Sean Sweeney the Parman Foundation Scholarship.

Asadi is a freshman majoring in chemistry.

Barnes is a junior majoring in nursing.

Bullard is a junior majoring in marketing Cox is a junior majoring in finance.

Foster is a sophomore majoring in psychology and forensic science.

Hambrick is a junior majoring in interpersonal communication.

Hunt is a senior majoring in biology.

Kar is a junior majoring in software engineering and computer science.

Merrill is a junior majoring in

See Scholarships, Page 18

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 3, 2021 • Page 17

Health care goes mobile

Phil Jones, middle, is recognized by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments as the 2020 Stakeholder of the Year.

Association honors city employee Phil Jones The Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) held their annual awards ceremony for the Central Oklahoma Clean Cities Coalition on Wednesday, May 26. Phil Jones, the City of Edmond’s Sustainability Coordinator, was named as the 2020 Stakeholder of the Year for his accomplishments in promoting and deploying alternative fuels and advanced vehicle technologies.

“The award represents Phil’s dedication to implementing the City’s Sustainability Plan and his willingness to work with other City Departments and regional partners to accomplish the goals of the plan,” said Director of Planning Randy Entz. “Phil’s work is a great example of how the City is moving

the needle on its goals of becoming a resilient, sustainable community.”

In honoring Mr. Jones, ACOG specifically cited his integral role in the installation of a network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations around Edmond and implementation of bicycle/pedestrian infrastructure projects through an ACOG grant.

The grant funding and subsequent work includes six EV charging stations that were installed in 2020 and the current project to implement dedicated bike lanes along Ayers Street.

To learn more about the City of Edmond’s sustainability efforts, please visit https://edmondok.com/sustainability.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health is mobilizing a fleet of wellness units and vans to help provide public health services in every corner of our state. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated and expanded this initiative, allowing us to reach undeserved communities with vital services, including the COVID-19 vaccine.

“More than ever, we recognize the barriers many Oklahomans face with transportation, time, and technology when it comes to seeking public health services,” Dr. Lance Frye, commissioner of health, said. “By mobilizing public health services, we can reduce or remove some of the major barriers that create health disparities in our communities. We can be where the people are, wherever and whenever we need to be.”

Mobile Wellness Units – purchased with COVID relief funding – are being delivered to all nine of Oklahoma’s Public Health Districts. Each mobile unit consists of a fifth wheel travel trailer pulled by an extended cab dually RAM pickup truck, and two vans.

The trailers are equipped to facilitate full clinic services for women’s exams, wellchecks, and other public health programs. There is

See Health, Page 19

Bill, targeting cybercrime, goes to the Governor Oklahoma business owners may soon have a bit more protection against the growing threat of cybercrime as House Bill 1759 passed the House and moves to the Governor’s desk.

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.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has seen a

spike in ransomware cases over the past few years.

Just this month, the City of Tulsa was the target of a ransomware attack.

“This is a growing problem and like so many areas of government, we have to adapt to a changing world,” Ranson said. “I hope this legislation is the first step in creating innovative cybercrime legislation in the future.”

HB1759 passed the House a second time last week. The update to the Computer Crimes Act

Four DOC women inmates are trained to drive trucks The women are graduates of the first truck driver training class for incarcerated women. The program is a partnership between the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections.

“This program and others like it align with our mission to help offenders transition successfully from the correctional system to the workplace,” said Oklahoma CareerTech State Director Marcie Mack. “We’re very proud of each of the ladies, who have learned the skills they need for prosperous employment that will make a positive impact on their lives and the state’s economy.”

Two of the women, all of whom came from the Oklahoma City Community Corrections Center, have been released from DOC custody and hired by an Oklahoma City-based over-the-road trucking company.

During an eight-week finishing program with the company, the two women will drive all over the country with a trainer, gaining experience as drivers. Once they complete their training period, the two women will be given their own trucks and hired as full-time drivers.

The other two women are sched-

Two classes of men from Union City Community Corrections have completed the program, but this is the first class of women. uled for release later this summer and plan to interview with the same industry partner.

The women started their training class in March and ended it earlier this month. They completed an intensive four-week program that included both classroom time and driving time. Their classes were conducted at Central Technology Center’s satellite site in El Reno.

The program in which they studied started as a pilot project in summer 2019 with men who were on probation; the program transitioned to incarcerated individuals in 2020. Two classes of men from Union City Community Corrections have completed the program, but this is the first class of women.

“They aren’t just giving us a job, they are giving us a whole new life,” Joanna Fowler said in an ODOC video. “And I’m so grateful for it.”

Driverless vehicle makes run to OKC Self-driving truck company, TuSimple, recently conducted a 900-mile test run of one of its driverless vehicles, delivering a load of produce in just over 14 hours.

On May 3 the company tested its trucks by hauling fresh watermelons along a 951-mile route across four states, from Nogales, Ariz., to Oklahoma City.

TuSimple partnered with Giumarra and the Associated Wholesale Grocers for the test.

The pick-up and delivery of the produce was done manually with a human driver, while the longest leg

of the journey, from Tucson, Arizona, to Dallas, Texas, was done autonomously using TuSimple’s self-driving technology.

The trip normally takes around 24 hours, however, TuSimple’s automated driving allowed a 42% faster run of 14 hours and six minutes, claims the company.

According to CNBC, the pilot was done with a safety driver on-board partly to comply with a patchwork of local regulations in the U.S. TuSimple plans to operate its trucks without needing a safety driver on board by the end of 2024.

was recalled from the Governor’s desk when one of his team members discovered an error in wording. The Senate corrected and sent it back to the House for approval.

“Beyond the tangible benefits of this legislation, I am appreciative of the bipartisan work to ensure this needed change happens now,” Ranson said. “This was a team effort to protect the Oklahoma economy.”

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

Page 18 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Scholarships From Page 16 management information systems.

Noor is a freshman majoring in elementary education.

Nurbyek is a sophomore majoring in nursing.

Oliver is a freshman majoring in chemistry and forensic science.

Pilcher is a senior majoring in biomedical engineering.

Savva Garcia is an undeclared freshman.

Sheffield is a junior majoring in elementary education.

Sweeney is a senior majoring in criminal justice and forensic science.

“Each year, we recognize the most promising and deserving students at Central with scholarships,” said Anne Holzberlein, vice president for Advancement at UCO and president of the UCO Foundation.

“Knowing that we are in a time when students need help due to effects from the pandemic, the collective support we receive is especially meaningful to us.”

The Robert A. Parman Foundation Scholarship is awarded annually to 10 students who excel academically on the UCO campus.

The Kirkpatrick Service Award is a part of the John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick Student Leadership and Public Service Awards, established in honor of the Oklahoma philanthropists John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick.

The scholarship is awarded to students who have made outstanding contributions to the UCO campus through scholarship and leadership in the university community.

The Carlos P. Evans Endowed Scholarship was created by UCO finance alumnus Carlos Evans, chief commercial officer and founding partner of Tall Oak Midstream. The award is presented annually to two finance students.

The 2nd Lt. Jered Ewy Endowed Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a UCO student who is an honorably discharged veteran, active duty member or current member of the National Guard or Reserves. The qualifying student will have a declared major in forensic

science, sociology or criminal justice.

The Alpha Gamma Delta Endowed Scholarship is awarded annually to an active collegiate member of the Epsilon Nu chapter who excels academically.

The Jafar Farzaneh Endowed Scholarship for International Students is awarded to two full-time international students who excel academically.

The Albert J. Wilhite and Beulah M. Wilhite Scholarship provides scholarships to five UCO students annually who are of Native American descent without regard to a specific tribe.

The Julian and Irene Rothbaum Student Achievement Awards, established in honor of the Oklahoma philanthropists, are presented to students who represent the highest level of academic achievement from each college and the W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute.

The Forensic Science Institute Endowed Scholarship is funded through the faculty of the W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute and private donors to contribute to the success of future forensic scientists.

The Robert Aldridge Armed Forces Scholarship is awarded to two students annually who are active in the military, a veteran who is honorably or medically discharged or a member of the National Guard.

The Zachary T. Johnson Memorial Scholarship is awarded to two students annually who have completed Forge as a freshman and Success Central. Each student will excel both academically and through leadership efforts on campus and within their community.

The UCO Foundation was established as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1975 to provide scholarship assistance to deserving students and support for faculty, campus activities and vital programs at UCO. For more information about scholarships and awards for students at Central, contact the UCO Foundation at foundation@uco.edu or 405974-2770.

FILE PHOTO

Craig VanHorn during his days at UCO.

Ex-UCO golfer qualifies for the U.S. Senior Open HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Former Central Oklahoma golf standout Craig VanHorn achieved a professional highlight earlier this month by qualifying for the 41st Annual U.S. Senior Open Championship.

The 50-year-old VanHorn fired a two-under-par 68 at the rugged Prairie Dunes Country Club to earn one of just two spots available to 84 golfers in the field for the one-day event.

A three-year star for the Bronchos who earned All-America honors in his final season in 1992, VanHorn will compete in the U.S. Senior Open on July 8-11 at Omaha (Neb.) Country Club. Nearly 3,000 golfers went through qualifying tournaments around the country to fill 72 spots in the 156-player field, with 84 slots taken by automatic qualifiers.

VanHorn has played in various mini-tours during his career and is currently a member of the All Pro Tour. His first view of the daunting Prairie Dunes Country Club came during Tuesday’s practice round.

“As soon as I got on site I was in awe,” said VanHorn, who was on his way to Ames, Iowa to play in a Champions Tour qualifier. “I loved the course before I even played there.

It’s a great, great golf course and it really fit my eye.

“I really had my head on point and managed my way around the golf course maybe better than I have in my career. It was the easiest 68 I’ve ever shot.”

And now it’s on to Omaha.

“I’m striking it like I want to, but am fighting through some putting issues,” said VanHorn, who lives in Wewoka and plays out of Shawnee Country Club. “I’m really looking forward to getting up there and seeing what I can do. I should have my game in pretty good shape by then.”

VanHorn appears to be the second golfer in UCO history to qualify for the U.S. Senior Open. Robin Freeman, an All-American for the Bronchos in the late 1970s, qualified for the U.S. Open in 1999 and finished ninth in the 2009 U.S. Senior Open.

‘I’m really looking forward to getting up there and seeing what I can do. I should have my game in pretty good shape by then.’

Former UCO Golfer Craig VanHorn

Pandemic weight gain is serious

By Brian Attebery This last 1.5 years has had many unintended consequences.

Our economy, businesses and stress have been at the center of everything. Job loss, sickness and the loss of loved ones have rocked this nation and world. If there is anything we should be shaken by Attebery is how important our health is.

I recently had a long-time client come back to start working out with me after a break of over a year due to the concerns of covid.

She is a female in her 70s that I have trained for over 20 years off and on. Throughout the years she has always fought the “fight of fitness” and has always stayed on it. This last year’s break from fitness and proper nutrition lead to her developing early onset diabetes due to the lack of her normal routine and the weight gain associated with her break. This is serious. I predict that we will see a significant increase in diabetes due to the lack of exercise, poor eating and stress that has seen a

dramatic increase this last 1.5 years.

In two recent studies (www.uclahealth.org), the American Psychiatric associate and JAMA both reported on significant weight gain in America during the pandemic. The APA survey of 3,013 participants reported that men reported an average weight gain of 37 pounds and women an average of 22 pounds during 2020. In the JAMA Network study, they reported up to “two pounds a month” of above average weight gain in surveyed participants.

In general, we have been seeing an alarming increase in obesity in the U.S. the last several decades. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of obesity increased from 30.5% in 2000 to 42.4% in 2018.

This last year of endless snacking, mindless eating, gym closings and stress-induced “feel-good” foods and drinks have added to this issue significantly.

I am pleased to say that I have seen in my gym a significant rebound in memberships and a renewed enthusiasm for fitness the last three months. People are starting to realize how impor-

tant being healthy is for not only looking good but also for their immune systems and over-all health. I am also pleased to report that my client who had the beginnings stages of Diabetes has been able to reverse her lab numbers in only a few weeks of dedicated daily exercise and a huge change in her dietary habits and natural supplements. She doesn’t have to take medications for diabetes as a result of getting refocused on her fitness and nutrition. Such good news!

If you got off track this past year, you can get back on track. You MUST get back on track with your health. Start slow and be realistic. It does take most people longer to lose their extra fat than it did to gain it. It is sad but true. Just focus on the process of getting healthier and take it one day at a time and one meal at a time. Let’smake 2021 the year of the come backs. You can be part of that come back story. Let’s do it!

(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer.

He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 3, 2021 • Page 19

Group helps renters stay in their homes during pandemic In an effort to keep Oklahoma renters in their homes during the pandemic, Community Cares Partners, a public private program of Communities Foundation of Oklahoma, has distributed over $12 million since March, and has capacity to give out much more.

Almost 3,000 households have been helped this year with rent and utility assistance through Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) funds. The dollars are entrusted to Community Cares Partners with the goal of distributing $200 million by December 31, 2021. Help can be distributed in arrears from March 13, 2020 forward.

“Oklahomans who are struggling to pay their rent or utilities or face eviction as a result of lost

wages or hardship from COVID-19 are eligible for the help,” said Ginny Carl, Executive Director of Community Cares Partners. “Our desire is to approve these funds for the people who need them, and we need Oklahomans to continue to apply for assistance.”

Community Cares Partners has a 97% approval rate on applications received. Residents can apply online at okccp.org or by calling 2-1-1. If renters have been served an eviction summons, there is still opportunity for support.

“Our mission is to provide relief and hope to our neighbors,” Carl said. “While it is best to apply before you receive an eviction summons, we can still help if that has happened. Tenants must show up

for their court date, and we will have support available.”

Community Cares Partners has team members available at the Cleveland and Oklahoma County Courthouses, but also serves anyone in the state who has been served an eviction summons and gives priority to those on the docket.

“It is our goal to have great relationships with not only tenants, but also with landlords,” Carl said. “Landlords can start the application process for their tenants, but need to work with tenants to get the application for funds processed.”

All eligible Oklahomans are encouraged to apply, with Community Cares Partners already serving residents in 72 Oklahoma counties.

Health From Page 17 a built-in reception area, generator, satellite dish and wheelchair lift among other features. The vans are designed for less invasive medical visits and to facilitate other public health programs.

The final two trailers are expected to arrive as early as next week. The vans have been in operation since December, playing a vital role in vaccine response and helping deploy Oklahoma National Guard strike teams and other community-based clinics.

“Mobile units have proven to be an effective method of reaching people where they live, work, and play,” Assistant Deputy Commissioner Mendy Spohn said. “Deployment of these mobile units allow public health services to be provided in a wide variety of settings, including neighborhoods and community events.”

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

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Page 20 • June 3, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure