June 11, 2020 Vol. 21, No. 4
In This Issue FOUR SEASONS
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.
Prayer held near police station See Page 13
FRIDAY, June 12 Mostly Sunny High 93° Low 66°
SATURDAY, June 13 Sunny High 95° Low 70°
SUNDAY, June 14 Sunny High 95° Low 70°
Concept drawings of public interactive artwork to go in downtown Edmond. By Steve Gust Over the next three months some unique artwork is on its way to downtown Edmond. And this time everyone has the opportunity to get in on the act. The concept of “interactive art,” will soon become known to the public. Matthew Myers, a downtown real estate developer, has latched onto the idea to draw people downtown and give them a chance to “slow down,” and enjoy their surroundings. “We need to do that, especially during the times we live in now,” he said. Myers has been an active member of the city’s Visual Arts Commission, dedicated to enhance Edmond with artwork. “Edmond is getting a reputation as being one of the more artistic cities in the United States,” he said. “We have people from Spain and Sweden who stop here to view the art.” Part of that European flavor will be one of the first pieces of interactive art here. There will be a seven by 21-foot metal sculpture, entitled ‘Locks of Love,” by Zonly & Studio Z. It will be near the Festival Marketplace. Myers explained this is modeled after the Lock Bridge in Paris.
Visitors to the Lock Bridge take a padlock and attach personalized messages. Then they throw the key away in the Seine River. Tons of padlocks are currently on the bridge. Myers is hoping for the same kind of popularity here. The Edmond concept will be sim-
PHOTO PROVIDED
Covel is another huge advocate of public art. “Downtown Edmond without its art is simply not downtown Edmond. Spread throughout downtown are over 30 pieces of all different styles, including bronze statues, metal sculptures, and murals,” she said. “The art is not just ornamental, it’s a glimpse into our past and a vision for the future of our community. I think there’s at least one piece for everyone that will make them smile.” Businesses are also urged to sell padlocks for those wanting to be part of the Edmond “Locks of Love.” A second project will be “Share the Love,” Zonly & Studio Z. This will be near the Edmond Post Office. This structure will have prepaid postcards on it. Someone can grab one, write a message for a loved one, and drop it off at the post PHOTO PROVIDED office. Hearts to padlock with your love. “When is the last time most peoilar. It is considered a romantic gesple got a postcard?” Myers asked. ture as couples lock the padlock on “This gives people a nice feeling.” the fence of the bridge and pledge A third project will involve a chalk eternal love locked forever. board. For now it’s called “I Wish.’ City Clerk Cinda Covel recently People can write their wishes at First made an appearance to the DownStreet and Broadway. town Edmond Business Association, Myers said it won’t end here outlining this, and two other projeither. ects, which are ready to go online “Over the next 12 months we’ll soon. have 10 such projects.”
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To be used for college fund
Edmond couple win newborn sweepstakes and $5,529 McDaniel. “However, Edmond parents, one milestone I encourRachel and Shaun Hitage parents not to overtle, have an outstanding look is opening and start to their daughter’s contributing to an Oklahoma 529 College OCSP account. With Savings Plan (OCSP) acthe goal of providing count. Their daughter, Oklahomans with finanLucy, was randomly secial freedom and relievlected as the 2019 ing student loan debt, Newborn Sweepstakes early account contribuwinner out of 861 entions will help children trants, receiving $5,529 PHOTO PROVIDED achieve both.” toward her OCSP acRachel and Shaun Hittle Not only does OCSP count. INTEGRIS Health were awarded $5,529 toplace a high priority on Edmond, the hospital ward their daughter Lucy’s education, but many where Lucy was born, college fund. hospitals do the same, also received a donation including INTEGRIS Health Edmond, of $1,529. State Treasurer Randy McDaniel and where Lucy was born. “We at INTEGRIS Health Edmond OCSP officials congratulated the Hittle strive to provide every parent with family via phone call after receiving 529 information,” said Evelyn their check. Radichel, MS, RN-BC, Administrative As first-time parents, both Rachel Director Surgical and Women’s Servand Shaun noted their immense desire ices of INTEGRIS Health Edmond. to secure a lasting future for their “We know the importance of a good daughter and how college sets her up education and want to emphasize for success. planning for the future to all our new “Education is a platform that puts parents. We are excited that one of your future in place,” Hittle said. our babies has been chosen to re“Our ultimate goal is the ability to ceive this sweepstakes money, which pay for her college, as my husband and I are still paying off our own stu- will give her a head start in life.” The Hittles are the 10th family to dent loans. And when you become a win the annual statewide Newborn parent, you really want things for your child more than you want things Sweepstakes. Since 2010, OCSP has awarded more than $49,000 to Oklafor yourself.” According to educationdata.org, the homa families through the sweepstakes, and OCSP has donated more average total price of four-year degree is around $122,000. OCSP’s Newborn than $13,000 to Oklahoma hospitals with the promotion. Sweepstakes outlines the importance The Newborn Sweepstakes continof saving for college early and encourues this year, with entries now being ages families to do so. OCSP accounts accepted via the OCSP website. Parare designed to perform better long ents or grandparents of a child born in term, creating an additional incentive 2020 will have until April 14, 2021, to for parents or grandparents to start enter. No purchase is necessary. Void saving for a child’s education the mowhere prohibited. Sponsored by OCSP. ment they are born. Funding for prizes comes from the “There are so many important moments during the first few years of hav- OCSP marketing budget. No state ing a child,” said State Treasurer Randy funds are used.
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From the Publisher
Eat more cheese please Many facets of our society have been exposed in dealing with COVID-19. It has really shown the weak spots in healthcare, manufacturing, and our supply chains. As Warren Buffet once said, “You can tell who is swimming without a bathing suit is when the tide goes out”. I think many of our processes in this country have been with out a suit Ray Hibbard and the virus has exposed them, so to speak. The role of farmers and agriculture in this county has shown its importance. It is the only time I can remember when supplies of anything other than gas have been in short supply. The whole toilet paper shortage is way beyond my ability to figure that one out. It seems to have stumped most of the experts on such things as well. Much of what we have seen is a disconnect between supply chains and the form of delivery for products. Farmers will tell us that they are not producing any less product, but it does not show up on the shelves. The best example is the footage seen on the television news of farmers having to pour out their milk on the ground. When folks need food more then ever in this country, why would that be? As you probably know by now, the problem stems from the disruption between supply and demand, much like with other food industries affected by restaurant and school closures during the pandemic. Dairy farmers had to dump milk that could not be redirected to other markets in time before it spoiled. It is the same with cheese businesses that suddenly had too much cheese supply with a limited shelf life. Institutional uses for these products have different packaging requirements then what we use in our homes. It has been the same problem around the world. Governments have been encouraging folks to eat more dairy including cheese. I have certainly been doing my part here in Edmond. I love cheese. In fact, you could sprinkle it on shredded cardboard, and I would think it tasted wonderful. My wife is amazed at how much cheese I can eat and never get tired of it. I have been blessed with naturally low cholesterol so I do not watch my intake as much as I probably should. It runs around 135 so how much lower could it really go it I did not eat as much cheese? A patriotic rallying cry has been made in Britain, France, and Canada. In Britain, Prince Charles urged his country to buy more of this homemade dairy product, writing in a letter May 10 that it was “deeply troubling to learn that this crisis risks destroying one of the most wonderful joys in life – British cheese!” Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged citizens to “pick up some Canadian cheese to help a local dairy farmer.” His government recently increased the borrowing capacity of the Canadian Dairy Commission by 200 million Canadian dollars to purchase and store more cheese and butter. The European Commission also called out “the disturbance in the cheese market” and agreed to pay farmers for the storage of cheese, including 18,000 metric tons for France, where industry lead-
ers pleaded for more cheese consumption. “We refuse to resign ourselves to throwing away the extra quantities,” said a letter from a French cheese industry group. Throwing out food of any kind would just kill the French. Food is next to God in their world. Even a crust of bread gets consumed after mopping up a savory sauce in their plate. We are having the same problem here in the U.S. The Department of Agriculture also has stepped up purchases of dairy products to more than $330 million during April through May, up from $88 million during the same months last year, according to the USDA. “That has helped to bring more balance to market prices for milk and cheese,” said Matt Herrick, spokesman for the International Dairy Foods Association. “Because of growing food insecurity, those products are going directly to food banks, non-profits, and food-insecure people rather than going to storage.” In the U.S. and other countries, the small cheese producers are getting hurt the worst. This is because most of the small producers make the high-end cheeses. Folks are not buying as much of this product due to high unemployment. A survey by the American Cheese Society in May found that more than 71% of respondents applied for debt relief or financial assistance, while 30% said they laid off or furloughed employees. The total lockdown has shown that the smaller businesses get hit the hardest. All this is not to say we are not doing our part
here in the good old U.S.A. Retail cheese sales increased 43.7% since last year for the 12-week period ending May 23, according to the Nielsen research firm. That means Americans are buying more for home consumption, though it is not enough to make up for the shutdown in the foodservice industry. It also turns out that there is a reason folks like me seem almost addicted to cheese. Consumption of cheese involves the same brain receptors as opiates, said Neal Barnard, president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and author of the book “The Cheese Trap.” He describes cheese as “dairy crack.” “Cheese craving is caused by compounds called casomorphins, that are released as dairy proteins are digested,” Barnard wrote in an email to USA TODAY. “They attach to the same brain receptors that heroin or other opiates attach to. In addition, cheese is high in salt (even higher than potato chips) and fat (70% of calories), both of which contribute to its habit-forming potential.” Before those of you in the medical community send off that nasty email to me, just know that Barnard is only explaining why cheese is so appealing and addictive to some folks. He is not recommending it as a diet. However, if you want to do something that would help other than staying inside and, on your couch, you could eat more cheese. Consuming more cheese is great but it is also broad in scope. With regard to cheese or any other agricultural product, we should seek out our local farms and producers. It is with these small businesses that our dollars will have more impact. Those of us still working and can afford to pay a little more for some of these products can make a big difference to those local farmers who are struggling to keep the barns open. A great source for all things local from the agricultural world is right here in downtown Edmond. Urban Agrarian is located on the northeast corner of Broadway and Main. These folks are great and the products they sell are fantastic and locally sourced. You would be helping them in these tough times, but you also would be able to help the small, local farms and producers in the process. You can call them at (405) 231-1919 to order what you want or discuss what they have in stock. Then you just pick up at curbside which is about as easy as you get. Then you just pick up at curbside which is about as easy as you get. Our friends at Gourmet Gallery offer a giant selection of locally produced products. They are knowledge about each of the producers and make a great resource for your questions. By shopping at Gourmet Gallery, you are helping a small local business, but you are also helping the local venders they depend on. You can also look for local labels and produced products at the bigger grocery stores. They are much better about carrying local produce, breads, cheeses and more than they used to be. It may take a little extra time to do so and cost a little more, but these products are worth it. The families behind these local products are also worthy of our support.
(Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Check out what’s inside! ---- Why elderly are suspectible to virus ............................................Page 8. ---- Peaceful protest held in Edmond ................................................Page 9. ---- The ‘old’ normal is almost here..................................................Page 10. ---- Obituary notice..........................................................................Page 10. ---- A much needed time for prayer..................................................Page 13. ---- George Gust reviews the timely film ‘Just Mercy’ ......................Page 15. ---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page 15. ---- Some chores for the garden ......................................................Page 16. ---- Business news ............................................................................Page 17. ---- Church directory ........................................................................Page 19.
See if you can find ‘Four Seasons’ “Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper. Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing. Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011. Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable. For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.
Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com Production Deanne York Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, and George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante
Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2020 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
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Lock It Up Safes has a Grand Opening Lock It Up Safes recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand opening at 716 West 15th Street. Lock It Up Safes exists to serve Oklahoma’s safe needs. Their mission is to provide peace of mind for the material items their customers treasure most. They offer a variety of safe needs and accessories to keep your valuables in perfect condition. They offer full-service delivery, installation and moves with exceptional customer service. For more information, visit www.lockitupsafes.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.
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Edmond dentist takes college leadership role The University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry recently announced new leadership in strategic positions within the college. Named as the new division head of Orthodontics, Onur Kadioglu, DDS of Edmond, succeeds recently retired George Frans Currier, DDS, MSD. Kadioglu completed his orthodontic residency at the OU College of Dentistry and became a faculty member, serving as clinic director. In 2012, he became director of the Graduate Orthodontic Program. Kadioglu has authored many peer-reviewed publications in orthodontic journals, and working with Currier, has published a textbook on 3-D imaging. Active in the American Association of Orthodontists, he has addressed its annual session, and currently is in his second term of service as chair of the AAO Council on Scientific Affairs. Kadioglu is a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and serves as a section editor and examiner for the Clinical Board Certification Exam. He also serves as editor of the Southwestern Society of Orthodontists and was scientific chair for its 2017 and 2019 annual sessions. Kadioglu also is a member of Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society and the American College of Dentists. Succeeding Kadioglu, Steve McCullough, D.D.S., has been named director of the Graduate Orthodontic Program. McCullough completed his dental degree at OU College of Dentistry, followed by orthodontic residency at University of Michigan. McCullough is no stranger to the program, having taught since its inception in 1981. McCullough has maintained a practice in Yukon, Oklahoma, and was recently appointed as director of the American Board of Orthodontics, representing the Southwestern Society of Orthodontists. In making the announcements,
Dr. Onur Kadioglu Raymond, A. Cohlmia, D.D.S., dean of the OU College of Dentistry, cited the significant contributions of Currier, a founding faculty member and former head of the Graduate Orthodontic Program. “Dr. Currier was instrumental in establishing the program’s strong foundation. He has been a pillar of strength and leadership, helping to create one of the most highly regarded graduate orthodontic programs in the nation. His legacy is our opportunity to open the next chapter in the ongoing growth of our orthodontic program.”
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One reason elderly are prone to virus At every stage and in every impacted nation, Covid-19 has struck the elderly hardest. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 8 out of every 10 Covid-19 deaths in the U.S. have occurred in adults age 65 and older. This age group also accounts for upward of 70 percent of all coronavirus hospitalizations nationwide. Why? The prevalence of underlying health conditions like diabetes and heart disease as we grow older plays a big role. But experts at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation say there’s another culprit that bears part of the blame: our immune system, the biological network whose job is to protect us against foreign invaders like viruses. “The general line of thinking is that immunity falters with normal aging, just like our muscle mass and cognitive function,” said Hal Scofield, M.D., a physician-scientist at OMRF. “You don’t see pro athletes playing after age 50. We have a shelf life physically, and that goes for immunity, too.” That waning immunity leaves older people more prone to serious complications not only from Covid-19 but from seasonal illnesses like the flu. T cells and B cells, special types of white blood cells involved in the immune response, offer clues to why immunity declines with age, according to OMRF immunologist Susan Kovats, Ph.D. “We don’t know all the specifics behind the decline in immune function with aging, but we do know that both T cell and B cell function deteriorates with
Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Susan Kovats, Ph.D.
age,” she said. T cells are made by a small organ in your chest called the thymus, “which slowly shrinks over time and is essentially gone in your adult years,” said Kovats. Meanwhile, she said, “The ability of B cells to produce highly specific antibodies that inactivate viruses also decreases with age.” B cell numbers decline to a greater extent in elderly men, Kovats noted, “which may explain why they are more
likely to die from severe Covid-19 disease.” These age-related declines explain why, for example, a virus like shingles tends to emerge from a weakened immune system later in life. “If you’ve had chickenpox, the shingles virus stays in your body forever,” said Scofield, who also serves as associate chief of staff for research at the Oklahoma City VA. “When you’re young, your immune system keeps the virus in check. As you age, your body begins to lose its defenses and that increases your likelihood of getting shingles.” Weakened immunity has also made the annual flu shot less effective in the elderly, with the CDC reporting that only 25 percent of people age 50 and older were protected during the 2018-19 flu season. “The immune responses to vaccines are not as good overall in the elderly, and this is a legitimate concern as Covid-19 vaccines are hurried to the finish line,” said Kovats. “A lot of work is being done to try to understand why the immune response weakens, and significant effort has gone into changing how vaccines are made for this age group in order to solicit better immune responses.” Researchers at OMRF and across the country are investigating the mysteries of aging, as well as the immune system, to better protect a population that now counts more than 50 million Americans over the age of 65. “Covid-19 is unlike anything the body has ever seen before, and older people do not respond well to pathogens or viruses they’ve never been exposed to,” Scofield said. “This is going to be a challenge, but the more we learn about how the immune system works, the better we’ll be at protecting our seniors in future outbreaks.”
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A peaceful protest held in Edmond RAY HIBBARD
Last week, near Second and Bryant, there was a small but peaceful group protesting in Edmond over the recent death of George Floyd. Lots of honking and waving from passing motorists in support of their message. Please see Page 13 for related photographs.
Children’s Hospital acquires clinics The Children’s Hospital at OU Medicine has announced the acquisition of Kids 1st, a pediatric-focused after-hours clinic with two locations in the Oklahoma City metro area. OU Children’s Physicians will oversee the day-to-day operations of the clinics. Kids 1st will continue to offer services in north Oklahoma City at 12516 N. May Ave., and in Edmond at 2820 N. Kelly Ave., Suite 100. Clinic hours are 5 to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. “We are excited to be able to expand our services for the children of the Oklahoma City and Edmond metro areas,” said Morris Gessouroun, MD, chair of pediatrics at The Children’s Hospital. “For children needing timely medical care the Kids 1st Urgent Care locations allow convenient access to high quality children’s healthcare during weekends and evening hours. Parents will have that added level of assurance knowing the full resources of the pediatric specialists, staff and facilities of The Children’s Hospital and OU Children’s Physicians are available to back up that care whenever a child needs additional services.” Services provided by Kids 1st, include:
One Kids 1st Clinic in Edmond n On-site lab: complete blood count, chemistries, rapid strep, urinalysis, rapid influenza test, rapid RSV test, monospot test n Routine X-ray services (chest and extremities) n Treatment of minor wounds and burns n Evaluation for broken bones – splinting and stabilization only n Asthma therapy n Treatment of common childhood illnesses – colds, flu, strep, etc. n Sports injury initial evaluation and treatment “Kids 1st clinics are designed as a convenient supplement to a child’s pediatrician when a families’ schedule or the urgency of a child’s illness necessitates care after regular business hours,” explained Jon Hayes, president of The Children’s Hospital. “The after-hours clinics are staffed by pediatricians committed to providing the highest quality of care during non-traditional office hours.” Families who are used to utilizing Kids 1st clinics will continue to be able to contact them at (405) 751KIDS. Most major insurance plans are accepted. For more information, go to: www.kidsfirstok.com.
Jam session Saturday at Round Barn Singer-songwriter Scott Taylor will provide Morning Music on Saturday, June 13, and the monthly Round Barn Rendezvous jam session is set for Sunday, June 14, at the Arcadia Round Barn. Taylor, who will present an outdoor concert from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., has been singing since the age of 3, getting his start in church and school choirs. He has a special love for cowboy and Western songs. Music from his CD entitled “Friends Along the Trail” has been used for the television program “Best of America by Horseback.”
The Round Barn Rendezvous is from noon to 4 p.m. and will also be held outdoors, beneath the shade of the giant elm tree on the north side of the barn. All musicians are welcome to bring their instruments and participate in the jam session. Fans are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. The Round Barn is located six miles east of Interstate 35 on Historic Route 66. Admission is free to all musical events but donations are accepted. For more information about live music, call Joe Baxter at 405-8331350.
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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side
Old normal closer? I believe last weekend was the first time I truly sensed things getting "back to normal." I came to downtown Edmond Saturday morning and it was humming. The Edmond farmer's mar- Steve Gust ket once again was drawing a good crowd. About a six weeks ago, I was here on a Saturday morning and there was one vendor selling plants. Every now and then somebody would stop and look at his goods. The Farmer's Market hadn't officially opened up. Over last weekend, most of the shops were open and seemed to be doing a fairly good business. That was true at the new cafe as well as Evoke. It's a relief to see some kind of normalcy return. Hope we can get sports going again soon. And believe me, I'm not taking the virus lightly. It was and remains a serious matter. I do believe it could have
been much worse than what it seems to be now. And I have great sympathy for any family affected by this horrible virus. One person infected is too many. One person passing is tragedy. Let's all remain careful and hope this period of normalcy continues to improve without new spikes of cases. Let's also learn from this event and be ready for the next time. ----Last Friday on Facebook a good friend of mine came unglued with comments allegedly made by the president. Something about the late-George Floyd allegedly being happy with a strong U.S. jobs report. I’m skeptical of most things reported about Trump from the Democrat journalists, who cover him. I looked at the transcript and he wasn’t referring to a jobs report but something to do with civil rights. The quote was taken completely out of context. So the press was wrong again, but what else is new? They probably still believe the Russian collusion lie. (Write news@edmondpaper.com)
Public not sold on vaccine By The Okahoman Editorial Board Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, drug companies and medical researchers have worked tirelessly to produce a vaccine. The Trump administration has suggested one could be available by year’s end, maybe sooner. When it gets here, what will it mean? For many, the answer is: Not much. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that onefourth of the public has “little or no interest” in a coronavirus vaccine. Despite the serious of the outbreak in this country, fewer than two-thirds of respondents said they were “very” or “somewhat” interested in a vaccine. The survey did indi-
cate that those who said they weren’t interested could be persuaded — 29% of the “not very” interested said they would be more convinced if the Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine. Another poll, by The Associated Press and NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, found that only about half of Americans said they would get a COVID-19 vaccine. One in five said they would refuse. Among those who said they wouldn't get vaccinated, 70% cited safety concerns. One respondent told AP-NORC that she is “not an antivaxxer,” but that “to get a COVID-19 vaccine within a year or two … causes me to fear that it won’t be widely tested
as to side effects.” The mindset is shared by others — in the Reuters/Ipsos poll, more than 40% said they feared the vaccine could be riskier than the disease. The reticence may reflect a general distrust in Big Pharma, or in the government. Like so many issues today, this one has a political hue to it — in the AP-NORC poll, more than one-third of respondents said they would be less willing to take a vaccine if President Trump said it was safe. The National Institutes of Health, meanwhile, plans to test the leading COVID-19 vaccine candidates on tens of thousands of people to determine efficacy and safety. NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins told AP, “Definitely the worst thing that could happen is if we rush through a vaccine that turns out to have significant side effects.” Another factor that may contribute to this middling response to a vaccine is that several generations of Americans have grown up without potentially fatal diseases, because vaccines wiped them out. Columnist Clarence Page touched on this recently. He recalled lining up in grade school to get a polio shot not long after its approval in 1955. “Polio haunted our lives then,” Page wrote. “When I was in kindergarten in 1952, more than 57,000 children were stricken with the disease and thousands died in one of the worst polio epidemics in American history. “Health experts say that if our society is to return to what it was precoronavirus, a COVID-19 vaccine is a must. So too will be persuading many Americans to roll up their sleeves.
CDC standards will challenge our schools By The Oklahoman Editorial Board The COVID-19 pandemic made the 2019-20 school year one for the history books, with students and parents having to adapt on the fly to remote learning. Many challenges remain for 2020-21, particularly if federal suggestions carry the day. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released its recommendations for reopening K-12 schools in the fall. Following the guidelines would present a tremendous burden on administrators and teachers. For example, the CDC recommends that classroom desks be spaced 6 feet apart and all face the same direction. The arrangement would reduce the number of students who could fit in a classroom, and thus require additional space be found to house students. In younger grades, it would mean the end of the longtime practice of placing desks in a cluster with the students fac-
ing each other, learning together. The CDC recommends that barriers “such as plastic flexible screens” be placed between bathroom sinks “especially when they cannot be at least 6 feet apart.” What would that costs school districts? Even getting children to school would be a major challenge, as the CDC recommends that children on school buses sit one per seat, in every other row. As a reporter for InsideSources.com wrote, “If school buses are more than 50% full, there wouldn’t be a way to have just one child on a seat that normally fits two or three.” The CDC recommends that schools “teach and reinforce use of cloth face coverings.” Acknowledging that masks may be a challenge especially for younger students, the guidelines say they “should be worn by staff and students (particularly older students) as feasible, and are most es-
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.
sential in times when physical distancing is difficult.” The agency recommends daily temperature checks or “symptoms checking” of staff and students, if feasible. It recommends that students bring their own lunch to school “as feasible” — it is not feasible in the Oklahoma City district, where most students qualify for free and reduced-price lunches — and that they eat in their classrooms, not the cafeteria. The CDC recommends that playgrounds be closed; if not, equipment should be disinfected between uses by different groups of students. If these measures aren’t enough, the CDC also says regular in-school announcements should be made about reducing the spread of COVID-19, along with reminders not to share items in the classroom or anywhere in the school and to maintain social distancing. The CDC notes that these are recommendations intended to supplement state and local laws. They are not mandates. “Implementation,” the agency says, “should be guided by what is feasible, practical, acceptable and tailored to the needs of each community.” Oklahoma's State Board of Education has green-lighted the option of Saturday school days for districts. It will be interesting to see what other strategies are in place when schools resume just a few months from now.
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Edmond Life & Leisure • June 11, 2020 • Page 11
Banks & credit unions will help with absentee voting The Secretary of the Oklahoma State Election Board joined representatives of the Oklahoma Bankers Association, Oklahoma Credit Union Association, and Community Bankers Association of Oklahoma last week to announce that financial institutions across the state plan to offer free absentee voting services to all Oklahoma voters. Participating banks and credit unions will offer one or more of the following services to voters: Free ID copy (lobby and/or drivethru) Free absentee ballot notarization (lobby and/or drive-thru) Voters can find a list of participating banks and credit unions at elections.ok.gov. Services and hours may vary by location. “Banks and credit unions are in almost every community in Oklahoma. They’re our neighbors and community partners and they realize the importance of democracy. That’s why we’re excited to work with these financial institutions to ensure that every voter—both customers and noncustomers alike — have free and convenient absentee services available to them,” said Paul Ziriax, Secretary of the State Election Board. Craig Buford, President and CEO of the Community Bankers Association agrees. “The Community Bankers Association of Oklahoma is proud of the hard work and diligence of the Oklahoma Legislature and the Oklahoma Election Board to streamline the absentee ballot process while maintain-
ing its integrity. Community Financial Institutions are not just the backbone of Oklahoma’s economy, but leaders in their communities. This partnership was a natural fit as we all work together to protect one of our most cherished rights, the right to vote.” “Community banks across Oklahoma are excited for the opportunity to make absentee voting easier for all Oklahomans,” said Adrian Beverage, Chief of Staff and Executive Vice President for Government Relations for the Oklahoma Bankers. According to Nate Webb, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Credit Union Association, “Voting is one of the greatest privileges we enjoy as Americans. Oklahoma credit unions are pleased to help our fellow Oklahomans participate in the process.” While participation by banks and credit unions is voluntary, associationfficers said they have had a positive response of support from financial institutions across the state. Voters can apply for absentee ballots online using the OK Voter Portal at elections.ok.gov/OVP.html. Applications can also be downloaded from the State Election Board website at elections.ok.gov. Absentee ballots must be received no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day. For more information about absentee voting in Oklahoma, visit our website at elections.ok.gov. Voters with specific questions should contact their County Election Board or the State Election Board at (405) 521-2391 or info@elections.ok.gov.
OBI & antibody testing Oklahoma Blood Institute announced last week it will provide free COVID-19 antibody tests for all blood donors eighteen and older. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the first blood center in the state to offer COVID-19 antibody screening service to its donors. This testing initiative, provided at all donor centers and mobile blood drives, comes in the wake of an immediate need for blood donations due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations. Healthy donors are urged to give blood, and appointments are encouraged to allow for recommended social distancing. The antibody testing was announced at a media conference held last week at OSU Health Sciences Center in Tulsa. Speakers included John Armitage, M.D., president & CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute; Kayse Shrum, D.O., president of OSU Center for Health Sciences and Oklahoma’s Secretary of Science & Innovation; George Monks, M.D., president of the Oklahoma State
Medical Association; Bruce Dart, Ph.D., executive director of Tulsa Health Department; and Col. Lance Frye, Oklahoma’s new interim Commissioner of Health. “Oklahoma is now in Phase 3 of re-opening, and many of us are going back to work and resuming activities,” said Dr. Kayse Shrum. “This testing innovation is key to empowering Oklahomans with the health information they need as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 crisis and evaluate effective methods to keep Oklahomans safe. The medical community commends Oklahoma Blood Institute for providing this valuable testing free of charge.” The testing kits are provided by IMMY located in Norman, OK, and Oklahoma Blood Institute’s medical laboratory technicians will test each blood sample individually. A tube will be drawn at the time of donation, and antibody test results will be mailed post-donation. Donors may opt out of the antibody test.* Testing and donor b-roll can be found on Dropbox.
Obituary Notice Mary Lou Roberts Mary Lou Roberts passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her loving family on June 2, 2020 in Arcadia, OK following a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. She was 86. She was born Mary Louella Anderson on June 9, 1933 in Wellston, OK to her parents Raymond and Edna “Violet” Anderson. She grew up in Edmond, OK and graduated from Edmond High School in 1951. Mary Lou attended Central State College where she was on the Bronze Book yearbook staff, was president of the Pi Omega Pi honor society, was a 2 year Who’s Who member and graduated with a degree in Business Education in 1955. After earning her degree, she married Curtis Keith Roberts on August 27, 1955. Over the next 9 years they were blessed with the birth of 5 sons - Dennis, Martin, Chris, Greg and Tim, then later added a sixth “son” in Eric Steele. Mary Lou later received a Master of Education in 1967. A beloved teacher, she inspired thousands of children during her 27-year career with Edmond Public Schools. She taught third grade at Russell Dougherty Elementary and fourth grade at John Ross Elementary. She retired in 1989 and dedicated her remaining time to her family, the Farm Bureau Women’s Committee and playing music for the church. Her lifetime love of music started as a young girl. She learned to play piano in high school and excelled. Her musical ministry began as a teen and continued over 50 years. She first played piano and organ for evening church services at her childhood church, First United Methodist of Edmond. At Central State she played for Y-Chapel of Song and after her marriage to Curtis she played for the First Christian Church of Luther. Mary Lou spent her adult life participating in various farming organizations in support of Curtis and the boys. While her boys were growing up she was active in the Oklahoma County 4-H and the Edmond FFA Parents Club where she helped organize fundraising activities for both organizations. She served as District 3 Director for Oklahoma Farm Bureau Women’s Committee and represented that group at national conventions and congressional tours for many years. She also was active in the Oklahoma County Home Demonstration Club and served as an election precinct official. When she joined Curtis on the farm, Mary Lou adapted completely. Raising the boys and later welcoming Curtis’s father, O.B., into the household, she cooked and baked to feed the small army. During harvest she often had to cook for extra mouths and was known to whip up an amazing meal for 15-20 people with little to no warning. Most years, the family would make an annual pilgrimage to Colorado to camp and fish for trout and Mary Lou would run the camp. She had a love of outdoors and flowers and tended her beloved roses and irises in flowerbeds around the house. Mary Lou was Curtis’s rock and their love transcended all. For nearly 65 years they shared a bond that is rare in today’s world. Their marriage was timeless, and they were completely dedicated to each other. Her greatest joy came from doting on and playing with her 27 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. With a joy only a grandmother knows, she took an active role in all of their lives while she baked and doctored and transported and ministered and supported in every way. Mary Lou is survived by her husband Curtis Roberts of Arcadia, OK; Dennis & Leslie Roberts, Son & Daughter-in-law of Harper, KS; Martin & Cindy Roberts, Son & Daughter-in-Law of Oklahoma City, OK; Christopher & DeAnna Roberts, Son & Daughter-in-Law of Carney, OK; Greg & Angela Roberts, Son & Daughter-in-Law of Arcadia, OK; Timothy & Pamela Roberts, Son & Daughter-in-Law of McKinney, TX; Eric & Kari Steele, “Son” & Daughter-in-Law of Edmond, OK; 27 Grandchildren, 8 Great- Grandchildren; Evelyn Harris, Sister, Edmond, OK; Linda Piatt, Sister, Naples, FL; Fern Anderson, Sister-in-Law, Luther, OK. She is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond & Edna “Violet” Anderson; her brother, Raymond “Gene” Anderson; her brother and sister-in-law, Howard & Judy Anderson; and her brother-in-law, Robert Harris. A memorial was held June 9, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. at Broken Horn Ranch 19680 N Luther Road Luther, OK 73054. Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at 225 N Michigan Avenue, Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601 or online at ACT.ALZ.ORG. The Family would like to thank Dr. Dean Shipley and Centennial Hospice – Jamie Swain, Shelly Michaels and Renee Mason for their continued care and support. Arrangements were under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston. Have a notice you’d like published? Please call 405-340-3311 or e-mail ray@edmondpaper.com
Page 12 • June 11, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Edmond Life & Leisure • June 11, 2020 • Page 13
Prayer offered amid national sorrow Following recent national events, Pastor Ronnie Ladd, right, reached out to the Edmond Police Department to hold a morning of prayer in downtown Edmond. It was Thursday morning early in front of the Edmond Safety Center. PHOTOGRAPHS BY RAY HIBBARD
Page 14 • June 11, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Philharmonic postpones annual patriotic concert Out of an abundance of caution, and with the health, wellbeing and safety of our audience members, musicians, and staff in mind, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic announces the postponement of its annual signature July 3rd Independence Day celebration “Red, White and Boom”. Scheduled to move from State Fair Park to Scissortail Park this summer, this annual celebration attracts up to 30,000 each year. OKCPHIL Executive Director Agnieszka Rakhmatullaev says “Unfortunately, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to make this difficult, but necessary, decision. Bringing together large crowds both on and off the stage, to experience and share the power of music, presents very difficult challenges in this environment.” The Phil will continue to explore the possibility of presenting another free community outdoor concert later this summer. Additionally, with new technological advances we seek to expand the variety of ways we provide education, engagement, and performance experiences to continue to serve our community. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic has gained recognition as one of the nation’s premier regional orchestras. Tracing its roots to 1924, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic was formed in 1988 under the musical direction of Founder and Music Director Emeri-
tus Joel Levine and began a new era with the passing of the baton to Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate in 2018. The Orchestra remains steadfast in its mission “to provide inspiration and joy for the community through orchestral music.” Through its consistent commitment to excellence, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic strives to enrich lives, expand cultural development, educate future generations, and provide audiences with a diverse and inspirational performance experiences. Committed to expanding its reach well beyond the concert hall, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic enjoys a close collaborative relationship with Oklahoma’s schools, colleges, and universities as well as the city’s other premier arts organizations including Oklahoma City Ballet and Canterbury Voices. Through high-caliber performances and a variety of education and community engagement programs the OKC Phil serves over 135,000 annually throughout the states of Oklahoma.
Edmond students’ stipends from Math & Science College The University of Central Oklahoma College of Mathematics and Science recently awarded scholarships to several Edmond residents in recognition of their academic excellence and outstanding service to the university. Tahani Alahmar, a nursing major, received the Dr. Robert Curley Endowed Scholarship in Nursing. Rachel Armfield, a biology major, received the Biology Department Scholarships and Awards. Christopher Babila, an electrical engineering major, received the Engineering and Physics Scholarship. Phoebe Barnes, a nursing major, received the Textbook Broker’s Leadership Scholarship. Sanjana Bathini, a chemistry – health sciences major, received the Alex McAlpin Pre-Med Scholarship. Bhuwan Bhandari, a chemistry – health sciences major, received the Chemsitry Department Endowed Scholarship. Ethan Bruegel, an actuarial science major, received the American Fidelity Assurance Scholarship. Bethany Calhoun, a biology – biomedical sciences major, received the J. Michael and Kathryn M. Steffen Endowed Scholarship for Pre-Dental. Chase Compton, a mathematics – applied math major, received the Samuel Henry Mitchell and Elizabeth P. Mitchell Scholarship for Mathematics. Christabel Dodoo, a nursing major, received the Martin Family Foundation Scholarship and the Louise Chandler Memorial Endowed Scholarship in Mathematics and Science. Jayd Egner, a nursing major, received the Mollie Barrett Tallant Scholarship for CMS. Miguel Esparza, a nursing major, received the Milt and Shirley Pugh Endowed Scholarship. Janet Essman, a nursing major, received the Martin Family Foundation Scholarship. Anna Felix a chemistry – ACS certificate and forensic science – chemistry major, received the Verlin Richardson Endowed Scholarship for Chemistry. Kyra Gallagher, a biomedical engineering and engineering physics - physics major, received the Engineering and Physics Scholarship. Kendra Hamstead, a nursing major, received the Billie Heinzig Muzny Scholarship in Nursing. Rachel Hunt, a biology – biomedical sciences major, received the Biology Department Scholarships and Awards. Christopher Jester, a mechanical engineering major, received the Nortek Air Solutions Scholarship. Rohith Kalisserrysasi, a computer science major, received the John Taylor Beresford Endowed Scholarship for Applied Mathematics and Computer Science. Anupama Kar, a mechanical engineering major, received the Aerospace Alumni Endowed Scholarship. Sydney Loyd, a nursing major, received the Martin Family Foundation Scholarship. Marion Mantia, a mechanical engineering major, received the Engineering and Physics Scholarship. Erinn Murphy, a chemistry – ACS certificate major, received the Dr. James Dechter Endowed Scholarship in Chemistry. Rose Njoki, a biomedical engineering major, received the Milt and Shirley Pugh Endowed Scholarship and the Engineering and Physics Scholarship. Ameera Noon, a biology – biomedical sciences major, received the Marvin Mays Endowed Scholarship. Kayvan Noori, a biology – biomedical sciences major, received the Delta Dental Pre-Dental Endowed Scholarship. Nazgul Nurbyek, a biology – biomedical sciences
See Students, Page 14
Edmond Life & Leisure • June 11, 2020 • Page 15
‘Just Mercy’ a timely and resonant motion picture By George Gust "Just Mercy" follows young lawyer Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) and his historymaking battle for justice. After graduating from Harvard, Bryan had his pick of lucrative jobs. Instead, he heads to Alabama to defend those wrongly condemned or who were not afforded proper representation. One of his first, and most incendiary, cases is that of Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), who, in 1987, was sentenced to die for the notorious murder of an 18-year-old girl, despite a preponderance of evidence proving his innocence. With the odds-and the system-stacked against them, Bryan and Walter must fight to overcome legal and racial injustices. It’s undeniable that the past few weeks have been an emotional journey for many people. With the social climate being at a fever pitch Warner Brothers decided to make “Just Mercy” a free rental for the month of June to raise awareness about systematic racism and historical injustices. With its base on a true story emotion and ever pressing subject matter, “Just Mercy” is an impactful film that feels all to relevant to the moment.
At its core, “Just Mercy” is a legal crime drama centered on Jordan’s young lawyer character, but there are several moving scenes between the police/legal system and the black community that echo current events in haunting fashion. Jordan’s charisma is undeniable, but he is also able to portray Stevenson as righteous, competent, and vulnerable as well, being a victim of prejudice in addition to fighting injustice. Civil rights lawyer Stevenson is the kind of role that gives Jordan the opportunity to have the big emotional speeches and inspirational moments that you would expect from this kind of prestige legal drama and he delivers.
However, “Just Mercy” does suffer from some of the unfortunate hallmarks of the Oscar bait type of movie. The pace of the film feels quite slow and takes its time to get to its emotional conclusion, which can be taxing at times. The overall message of the film hits home, but the over two-hour journey to get there can feel its length. Overall, “Just Mercy” is a resonant film for these times and features a standout performance from Jordan as a prototypical righteous lawyer. There are some flaws in the pacing, but the message of justice and delivery of the story are powerful and with the widespread availability to rent for free, “Just Mercy” is well worth a watch. “Just Mercy” is rated PG-13 for thematic content including some racial epithets. 3.9 out of 5 stars To comment on this film review, or any other movie review, please e-mail George at gust.george@gmail.com Read past movie reviews by George Gust by visiting our web site at www.edmondlifeandleisure.com
PHOTO PROVIDED
Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx star in the powerful legal drama ‘Just Mercy’ now available to stream for free during June.
Students From Page 14 major, received the Carl Edward Northam Endowed Scholarship. Imuseoluwa Obemba, a data science major, received the Latisha Pollard Coffey Endowed Scholarship for Mathematics and Statistics. Amelia Perez, a biomedical engineering major, received the Engineering and Physics Scholarship. Austin Segrest, a biology major, received the Captain Zane and Linda Skinner Family Charitable Scholarship for Science. Giovanna Visalli, a funeral service and forensic science major, received the Funeral Service Department Endowed Scholarship. Alexandra Wilson, a nursing major, received the Martin Family Foundation Scholarship. Haris Zafar, a nursing major, received the Love of Janeene Cooper Scholarship in Nursing.
“On behalf of the faculty and staff in the College of Mathematics and Science, I congratulate each of our scholarship recipients,” said Wei R. Chen, Ph.D., dean of Central’s College of Mathematics and Science. “The achievements of these outstanding students reflect the mission of the college and the university. We applaud them for their commitment to academic excellence and exceptional work. We are also grateful to our alumni and the benefactors of our college whose generosity made these awards possible.” For more information about the UCO College of Mathematics and Science, visit uco.edu/cms.
Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: FATHER'S DAY ACROSS 1. Kind of lively dance 6. Greenwich time 9. Pilgrimage to Mecca 13. Belittle 14. A note to follow soh 15. Annie Oakley's show 16. Hipbone-related 17. Chicago to Detroit direction 18. Historical period 19. *Most gifted Father's Day gift? 21. *a.k.a. Father of the Constitution 23. Have a cold, e.g. 24. Bog deposit 25. Styling product 28. Not yet final, in law 30. Squirrels away 35. "Metamorphoses" poet 37. Antioxidants-rich berry 39. Text that precedes the main text 40. Car brand, e.g. 41. *"Full House" father 43. Brazilian indigenous people 44. a.k.a. dropsy 46. Precedes shine 47. Paving stone 48. Early TV manufacturer 50. Bayonet wound 52. "Zip it!" 53. Popular form of communication 55. Part of a match 57. *Christopher Robin's father 61. *Father known as "oneshot" Finch 65. Largest deer 66. *Richard Bobbsey's offspring 68. Precedes desist 69. Cuckoo 70. Friedrich Schiller's "___ to Joy" 71. Personnel person 72. Job for a body shop 73. Parent's order
74. Wrestling's ___ the Giant DOWN 1. It's equivalent to pain? 2. Sound mind, ____ body 3. Not of the cloth 4. Japanese port 5. Jelly ingredient 6. High school club 7. *Boy's father in "The Road" 8. Recurring melody 9. Shoshonean people 10. Without further ____, pl. 11. 1920s art style 12. *John-John's father 15. Cow's favorite grass? 20. Homer's classic 22. Pleasurable interjection 24. Adrian Brody in 2002 film 25. *Wednesday's father 26. Dodge 27. Compare 29. *Antithesis to Mufasa 31. Liberal pursuits 32. Don Giovanni and
such 33. Echo sounder output 34. *a.k.a. the father of modern economics 36. "Indecent Proposal" star Moore 38. Research facil. 42. Used for raising 45. U.K. Prime Minister, 1945-51 49. Lady lobster 51. "You ____!" 54. Xe 56. Make a connection, two words 57. In the thick of 58. Steak condiment 59. Express complaint 60. Antonym of is 61. All over again 62. *Popular Father's Day greeting 63. Olympic cast-out 64. Bone-dry 67. Commotion
See Answers on Page 19
Answers to the puzzle On Page 19
Page 16 • June 11, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Put these garden tasks on your list during June By The OSU Extension Service By June most of us have everything planted and now our maintenance begins. The tasks listed below are helpful reminders of things we can be doing to keep everything looking good throughout the summer months. Prevention of problems is always preferable to trying to fix a problem. Many of the topics mentioned below have individual Fact sheets available at http://osufacts.okstate.edu.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Bring beauty and life to your home this year. One helpful tip for your new flowers is to add mulch to protect the plants.
Flowers: n Many perennial flowers will benefit from deadheading so their energy will be spent producing flowers rather than seeds. n Tropical plants such as hibiscus and mandevillas are available in nurseries now and do well in heat and humidity. n To keep your annuals blooming all summer, fertilize regularly. Petunias and calibrachoa will bloom all summer if given regular fertilization. Water soluble fertilizers work well for this purpose. n Once the outside temperature goes up, plants in pots should be watered daily if needed. n If you haven't already mulched your flowerbeds, do it now. Mulching prevents weeds and keeps your plants cool. n Heat tolerant annuals include cuphea, lantana, pentas, periwinkle and zinnias. Periwinkles don’t like wet feet. n Annuals that like shade include caladiums, dragon wing begonias, impatiens, and torenia. Wax leaf begonia and coleus can do sun or shade White caladiums will brighten a shady area. Lawns: n Fertilize warm-season grasses using one pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft. n Dollar-spot disease of lawns can first become visible in mid-May. Make sure fertilizer applications have been adequate before applying a fungicide. (EPP-7658)
n Seeding of warm season grasses should be completed by the end of June to reduce winter kill losses. (HLA-6419) n Brown patch disease of cool-season grasses can be a problem. (HL6420) n Continue to water deeply as needed. Apply at least one inch of water each time. Meet water requirements for TURF. (HLA-6420) n Post-emergent control of crabgrass and summer annual grasses is best performed on young crabgrass plants. (HLA-6421) Trees: n Vigorous, unwanted limbs should be removed or shortened on new trees. Watch for forks in the main trunk and remove the least desirable leader as soon as it is noticed. (HLA-6415) n Pine needle disease treatments are needed again in mid-June. (EPP7618) Shrubs: n Softwood cuttings from new growth of many shrubs will root if propagated in a moist shady spot. n Shrubs that bloom in the spring may be pruned after they finish flowering, if needed. No pruning should be done after mid-June. Only prune if there is a reason. n If you haven't fertilized your spring-blooming shrubs, you should do so now. One application a year is enough. Insects: n Remain alert for insect damage. Spider mites will cause the foliage of most plants to become pale and speckled; juniper foliage turns a pale yellowish color. Shake a branch over white paper and watch for tiny specks that crawl. Spider mites and aphids can be sprayed off with a hard blast of water. Be sure to spray the undersides of the leaves. n Watch for first generation fall webworm. (EPP-7306) n Continue to inspect for bagworms on juniper and arborvitae. They can often be removed by picking them off.
Edmond Life & Leisure • June 11, 2020 • Page 17
Virus impact felt with state tax collections The coronavirus pandemic continued to make its presence known in this month’s Oklahoma Gross Receipts to the Treasury, State Treasurer Randy McDaniel announced last week as he released data showing a 14 percent drop in May revenue collections. Gross receipts for May total $923.1 million, down by $150.5 McDaniel million from May of last year. “The Oklahoma economy, as reflected in state revenue collections, was significantly impacted by the pandemic during the month,” Treasurer McDaniel said. “However, the picture in May is not as conspicuous as the April report, which included the postponement until July of income tax reporting.” McDaniel pointed to a few positive numbers in the May report. Of the six major revenue sources tracked in gross receipts, two showed positive
movement. Use tax, paid on out-of-state purchases including online, and individual income tax were both slightly higher than receipts from the prior year by a combined total of $13 million. On the other hand, sales tax and gross production receipts were substantially lower by a combined total of $106.1 million. Sales tax receipts, including remittances on behalf of cities and counties, fell by more than 12 percent over the year. Gross production collections were down by almost 60 percent compared to last May. May gross production tax receipts are paid on crude oil and natural gas production during March, when the price per barrel of West Texas Intermediate Crude Oil at Cushing averaged $29.21. One year ago, the average price was $58.15 per barrel. Meanwhile, natural gas prices fell by almost 40 percent over the year. Total gross receipts from the past 12 months are
EEDA releases abstract The Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) recently released the 2020 Edmond Economic Abstract. The 10-page economic profile, published annually by the EEDA and sponsored by Francis Tuttle Technology Center, contains demographic information including population, income levels, cost of living, crime figures, traffic counts and more. The 2020 Economic Abstract also features information on Edmond's residential and commercial real estate markets, tax collections and education information. "The Abstract is an essential tool for anyone promoting Edmond as well as for those considering a move to Edmond," said Janet Yowell, executive director of the EEDA. "The information provided in the Abstract plays a significant role in a company's decision to expand their business in Edmond." The information in the 2020 Economic Abstract is carefully researched by the EEDA from sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, ESRI, C2ER, the Oklahoma Tax Commission and more. Copies are available at the Edmond Economic Development Authority, 825 E. Second St., Suite 200. The Economic Abstract is also available on www.eeda.com.
OID names two to staff Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready announced the addition of Ashley Scott as Director of Government and Community Affairs. In this role, Scott will coordinate legislative efforts with state policymakers, facilitate agency rule promulgation and represent the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) across the state by working with local business and community leaders to support the mission of OID. “Ashley is a talented leader and a respected voice at the State Capitol,” Mulready said. “We are excited to have Ashley join our team and look forward to her building connections with industry leaders across the state.” Previously, Scott worked as the Legislative Liaison for the Oklahoma State Department of Health, where she was responsible for the advancement of their annual legislative agenda, development of agency rules, and coordinating policy initiatives with key public health stakeholders. Prior to that, she worked under Speaker Charles McCall at the Oklahoma House of Representatives and former Speaker Jeff Hickman as legislative coordinator and appointments director. Born and raised in Choctaw, Okla.,
Scott graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in English. She will begin her new role on June 18. In addition, Mulready announced Erin Wainner has been named Assistant Commissioner for Licensing Services. Since joining OID in October 2006, Wainner has held several roles and is currently the Supervisor for Continuing Education. In this new position, she will oversee the Bail Bonds, Licensing and Education, and Regulated Industry Services divisions. Wainner graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resource Management. She will transition to this new role immediately. “I am thrilled to see Erin take on this new leadership role at OID,” said Mulready. “She exemplifies our commitment to provide advancement opportunities for our dedicated team members. Erin provides extraordinary customer service and we look forward to her serving Oklahomans for many years to come.” If you have questions about other insurance issues, contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1800-522-0071 or visit our website at https://www.oid.ok.gov.
Career tech & lottery grants The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education has awarded just over $2.35 million in lottery grants to CareerTech programs for the 2020-21 school year, along with $500,000 in scholarships in the 2019-20 school year. ODCTE receives almost 5 percent of the Oklahoma Education Lottery Trust Fund, which it uses to help CareerTech programs upgrade equipment and to provide scholarships to educators to continue their own education to fulfill CareerTech teacher certification and credential requirements. Oklahoma CareerTech starts each year’s competitive grant process
only after it receives the lottery funds. CareerTech sixth through 12th grade programs and technology centers submit grant proposals that include their plans for using the funds to innovate and positively affect students. Because it is a competitive process, not all those who apply will receive funds. “Instructors and students throughout the system benefit from funds received from the Oklahoma Lottery,” said Marcie Mack, CareerTech state director. “Through the competitive grant process each year, there is a direct investment
See Grants, Page 18
$13.07 billion, off by $477.1 million, or 3.5 percent, compared to the previous 12 months. Shrinking income, sales and gross production tax collections exhibited the most downward pressure during the period. Economic indicators The unemployment rate in Oklahoma was reported as 13.7 percent in April, up from 2.9 percent in March. The seasonally adjusted number of Oklahomans listed as jobless increased by 188,950 in one month, according to figures released by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission. The U.S. unemployment rate was 14.7 percent in April. The Oklahoma Business Conditions Index increased slightly in May, but remained in negative territory. The May index was set at 43.0, up from 34.2 in April. Numbers below 50 indicate eco-
See Collections, Page 18
Page 18 • June 11, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure
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May collections May gross collections total $923.1 million, down by $150.5 million, or 14 percent, from May 2019. Gross income tax collections, a combination of individual and corporate income taxes, generated $289.2 million, a decrease of $15.7 million, or 5.1 percent, from the previous May. Individual income tax collections for the month are $279.2 million, up by $7.2 million, or 2.6 percent, from the prior year. Corporate collections are $10 million, a decrease of $22.9 million, or 69.5 percent. Combined sales and use tax collections, including remittances on behalf of cities and counties, total $424.1 million in May. That is $44.7 million, or 9.5 percent, less than May 2019. Sales tax collections in May total $362.3 million, a drop of $50.5 million, or 12.2 percent from the same month of the prior year. Use tax receipts, collected on out-of-state purchases including online sales, generated $61.8 million, an increase of $5.8 million, or 10.3 percent, over the year. Gross production taxes on oil and natural gas total $38.3 million in May, a decrease of $55.6 million, or 59.2 percent, from last May. Compared to April 2020 reports, gross production collections are down by $22.4 million, or 36.9 percent. Motor vehicle taxes produced $61.1 million, down by $2.1 million, or 3.3 percent, from the same month of 2019. Other collections composed of some 60 different sources including taxes on fuel, tobacco, medical marijuana, and alcoholic beverages, produced $110.4 million during the month. That is $32.4 million, or 22.7 percent, less than last May.
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Twelve-month collections Gross revenue totals $13.07 billion from the past 12 months, June 2019 through May 2020. That is $477.1 million, or 3.5 percent, below collections from the previous 12-month period. Gross income taxes generated $4.37 billion for the 12 months, reflecting a decrease of $225.5 million, or 4.9 percent, from the prior 12 months. Individual income tax collections total $3.86 billion, down by $202 million, or 5 percent, from the prior period. Corporate collections are $501.8 million for the period, a decrease of $23.5 million, or 4.5 percent, over the previous 12 months. Combined sales and use taxes for the 12 months generated $5.47 billion, a decrease of $95.4 million, or 1.7 percent, from the prior period. Gross sales tax receipts total $4.74 billion, down by $161.6 million, or 3.3 percent, during the period. Use tax collections generated $735.6 million, an increase of $66.2 million, or 9.9 percent, over the previous 12 months. Oil and gas gross production tax collections brought in $901.7 million during the 12 months, down by $227.4 million, or 20.1 percent, from the previous 12 months. Motor vehicle collections total $776.1 million for the 12 months. This is a decrease of $8.3 million, or 1.1 percent, from the trailing period. Other sources generated $1.55 billion, up by $79.5 million, or 5.4 percent, from the previous period. About Gross Receipts to the Treasury The monthly Gross Receipts to the Treasury report, developed by the state treasurer’s office, provides a timely and broad view of the state’s economy. It is released in conjunction with the General Revenue Fund report from the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, which provides information to state agencies for budgetary planning purposes. The General Revenue Fund, the state’s main operating account, receives less than half of the state’s gross receipts with the remainder paid in rebates and refunds, remitted to cities and counties, and apportioned to other state funds.
SOLD! Grants
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SOLD! SOLD!
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in the classroom and training experiences with new equipment, technology and enhanced instructional resources in a variety of ways.” Ninety CareerTech programs in 69 PK-12th grade schools and nine technology centers received grants in the 2020-21 school year. CareerTech awarded 486 teacher and administrator certification scholarships worth a total of $500,000 in the 2019-20 school year. Technology centers will invest in a wide range of equipment; examples are a police driver training simulator and other law enforcement training equipment; welding and metal fabrication equipment; computers, print-
ers and other hardware; software; and virtual reality equipment for health careers education. The 69 PK-12th grade schools received 90 lottery grants. Examples of classroom resources are welding equipment; tablets and other computer equipment, including software; greenhouse equipment; digital cameras and other photography equipment; apparel design and production equipment; food preparation and nutritional sciences equipment; microscopes; patient simulators and other health equipment; drones; construction shop equipment; and other equipment to enhance the CareerTech programs.
Edmond Life & Leisure • June 11, 2020 • Page 19
For grandparents raising children
Deadline now June 15 for ‘backpack’ program Due to COVID-19, Sunbeam Family Services has extended the application deadline to June 15 for its annual fall backpack and school supply assistance event for grandparents. This event is for grandparents, ages 55 and older, who are raising their grandchildren and live in Oklahoma, Cleveland, Canadian or Logan County. To qualify, parents cannot live in the same home as their children. The backpack and supply distribution will still take place on July 27. The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren school supply program at Sunbeam provides pre-qualified grandparents with backpacks filled with grade-specific school supplies for their grandchildren. This helps eliminate the financial burden of back to school expenses and ensuring their grandchildren
are prepared for the upcoming school year. This year, 400 children will benefit from the school supply assistance program. Grandfamilies need support more than ever,� said Talena Ford, Caregiver Fundamentals Project Manager. “This year we will not only have school supplies in each backpack given out, but resources that are current and applicable for each grandfamily.� This program is made possible through the collaboration of Sunbeam, local law enforcement agencies and the Older Americans Act. Oklahoma is one of the top states in the nation for grandparents raising their grandchildren. According to the US Census Bureau, grandparent-headed households are more likely to be without health insurance, more likely to receive public assistance and more
likely to fall below the poverty line than parentheaded households. Launched in 2003, Sunbeam’s “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren� program empowers grandparents by offering support groups, school supply assistance, holiday assistance, and other resources. Qualified grandfamilies can find a link to the application at sunbeamfamilyservices.org/GRG or call (405) 609-6551 for more information. Founded in 1907, Sunbeam Family Services is one of Oklahoma’s longest serving nonprofits and is one of the original United Way of Central Oklahoma Community partners. Sunbeam’s mission is to provide help, hope and the opportunity to succeed through Early Childhood, Counseling, Foster Care and Senior Services.
Gourmet Gallery sets sale The Gourmet Gallery, located in Edmond at 3325 S. Boulevard, Suite 107 in the Edmond Market Place Shopping Center will have a Summer Sale on Wednesday, June 17 through Saturday, June 20 during regular store hours. Due to the current COVID 19 concern, there will be no sampling. The sale is being offered for four days to allow people more time to take advantage of this sale and to avoid crowds. Curbside service, delivery and shipping is also being offered. A total of 20% off storewide will be offered. Prairie Gypsy pre-made meals are not included in the sale. For more information please contact The Gourmet Gallery at 715-3663.
&KDQQLQJ 8QLWDULDQ 8QLYHUVDOLVW &KXUFK For the safety of our members and friends, all services and events at Channing UUC have been cancelled through April 12th, 2020 in light of the COVID 19 Pandemic. tÄž ĆľĆŒĹ?Äž Ä‚ĹŻĹŻ Ä?Ĺ?Ć&#x;ÇŒÄžĹśĆ? ƚŽ Ä¨Ĺ˝ĹŻĹŻĹ˝Ç ĆšĹšÄž Ĺ?ĆľĹ?ĚĞůĹ?ŜĞĆ? Ĺ?Ĺ?ǀĞŜ Ä?LJ ƚŚĞ Ĺ˝ĆŒ ĹŻĹ˝Ä?Ä‚ĹŻ Ä‚ĆľĆšĹšĹ˝ĆŒĹ?Ć&#x;ÄžĆ?͘ Please be safe. : WK 6WUHHWÂł(GPRQG 2. See us on Facebook at: Ç Ç Ç Í˜Ä¨Ä‚Ä?ÄžÄ?Ĺ˝Ĺ˝ĹŹÍ˜Ä?Žž͏ ŚĂŜŜĹ?ĹśĹ?hh ĹšĆľĆŒÄ?Ĺš
In light of COVID 19 for the time being, some worship services may be suspended. Please check with your house of worship for more information.
Page 20 • June 11, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure