Edmond Life and Leisure - November 10, 2022

November 10, 2022 Vol. 23, No. 26

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Looking back at presidency

UCO’s first female president recalls challenges & achievements

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.

A very special Therapy dog

See page 9

FRIDAY, November 11 Sunny High 47° Low 27°

SATURDAY, November 12 Sunny High 46° Low 28°

SUNDAY, November 13 Partly Cloudy High 50° Low 32°

PHOTO BY PATTY MILLER

UCO’s President Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar speaks to AMBUCS members Friday as she shares accomplishments of the university. Neuhold-Ravikumar turned her resignation in last week.

By Patty Miller Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar, the 21st president of the University of Central Oklahoma and the institution’s first female president in its 130-year history, announced her resignation last week. At a local civic meeting last week she looked back at her three-year tenure as UCO’s leader.

She plans to leave Jan. 31 in order to spend more time with her family.

According to a campus press release President Neuhold-Ravikumar said she will be moving to Kansas City, Mo., where her wife currently serves as President of the Kansas City Art Institute.

Neuhold-Ravikumar was guest speaker during the AMBUCS weekly meeting held on the UCO campus Friday.

She told audience members she has been in the university community since 2007 after earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in management from Oklahoma Christian University and her master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology from the University of Tulsa. She is currently a doctoral candidate in organizational leadership at Concordia University in Chicago.

She serves on the board of advisors for the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Oklahoma Business Roundtable.

UCO launches nationally ranked online programs Neuhold-Rayikumar said she came to the university in 2007 and was appointed president in 2019. She added that under her leadership the university has successfully launched their nationally ranked fully online programs.

The press release included a statement from the Regional University System of Oklahoma Board of Regents,

which governs UCO and five other regional institutions in the state.

“President Neuhold-Ravikumar’s 15 years of dedicated service have helped make UCO a top regional university committed to academic excellence and preparing our students for success,” said Connie Reilly, RUSO board chairperson.

Neuhold-Rayikumar said that under her leadership the university has successfully launched their nationally ranked fully online programs.

She added that even though the university does not pursue rankings, UCO also achieved its first ever World ranking. UCO is one of 250 schools in the world to have a QS ranking which is what other schools in the world use to decide where to send their students.

“We are one of the top online colleges in the nation ranked by US News,” Neuhold-Ravikumar said. I Recently Tinker donated a $6 million super computer to the campus.

“We already have one Buddy (computer) on campus and this will double our computer power on campus,” Neuhold-Rayikumar said.

She added UCO leads the state in developing and awarding stackable micro-credentials. In addition every classroom has even been converted into a virtual learning space and student services have been modernized.

According to Neuhold-Ravikumar the university received recognition for excellence in education and social justice advocacy during 2020.

She added the school also achieved top national rankings in social mobility, crisis management, and forensic science. continued on Page 3

Page 2 • November 10, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 3

Cover From Page 1 During her tenure more than $28 million dollars has been raised in cash and in-kind gifts.

The president added first-year student retention has been increased by 12.5 percent.

Tuition assistance has also been increased for the underrepresented student population, she said.

“We are in the top 10 percent nationally out of 1,400 schools with students receiving PELL money,” Neuhold-Rayikumar said. “Because of this we received a Gold School award.’’

She added the University has also received the BEST for Vets award for seven years and has more than 900 student veterans enrolled in the school.

The award is officially called the Military Friendly School for colleges with more than 10,000 students.

In order to help fill the shortage of certified teachers in public school classrooms, Nuehold-Rayikumar said the university has developed a shorter path to certification for individuals who did not receive education degrees.

“We need fully certified teachers in our classrooms,” she added.

Neuhold-Rayikumar said the focus of the university has been on education since its beginning.

“Our focus is on teaching and learning,” she added. “We are pushing to grow critical occupations from English to STEM, a wide range of offerings.”

In an effort to help with the finances 30 faculty members were laid off last spring. According to Neuhold-

Ravikumar, the ratio of students to classroom professors was 16 to 1 this year and is expected to be 21 to 1 next year.

Enrollment and financial woes plague UCO A $15 million budget deficit caused by a decline in enrollment in the past years has caused problems.

“Across the state there are 62,000 fewer students (attending colleges and universities) than last year,” the president said. “That is a 22 percent drop in one year.”

She said that could be to a demographic shift as well as a healthy job market. In addition she added inflation today is affecting everyone and everything.

“When coming out of bad economic times that usually signals boom times for higher education,” she added. “In the 90s UCO enrollment shot up from 6,000 to 12,000 students.”

UCO grew at the wrong time where funding is concerned Neuhold-Rayikumar added.

She said that between 2011 and 2019 the campus of the University of Central Oklahoma doubled its debt.

“We went from $78 million to $154 million in indebtedness,” Neuhold-Rayikumar said. Most of the debt was from the addition of new buildings on campus.

She added no new building is planned until the debt is paid down.

According to the press release, RUSO Board of Regents “will announce a path forward for university leadership in the coming weeks.”

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.

Page 4 • November 10, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Chamber & EEDA help small businesses Holiday Gift Card Rebate Due to the success of their Small Business Saturday program, the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce and Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) are partnering again to offer the Holiday Gift Card Rebate Program.

This is a great program by both the Edmond Chamber and the Ray Hibbard EEDA to help our businesses in Edmond. You have heard so many politicians this season talk about helping small businesses and how important they are to the economy. But honestly, I seldom see any results from them. These two organizations actually do something and don’t just talk about it.

For every $50 you spend (rounded down) from November 25 through December 4 at an Edmond restaurant or retailer, you will earn a $10 gift card to the business/businesses you support. This offer is good for up to $250 in spending, which results in a maximum of $50 gift card. Receipts from Edmond Chamber of Commerce members will be preferred, but all qualifying purchases from local businesses within Edmond city limits will be eligible for consideration.

Please remember that like many homes there are businesses that have an Edmond address but are not in the Edmond city limits so please check to make sure where you are shopping is within Edmond. Once funds are depleted, there is no guarantee of a gift card rebate, so submit your receipts as soon as you can.

Rules and limitations: Limit $50 in rebates per household, for total purchases of $250+ Receipts must be from an Edmond Chamber member or local business within Edmond city limits Purchases must be made between November 25 and December 4 Receipts must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday, December 5 Purchases must generate sales tax (please ask us if you’re not sure) Excludes grocery stores, medical and pharmacy purchases, professional services and cost of labor Multiple receipts can be submitted to reach $250 maximum, but all receipts must be from Edmond Chamber members or local business within Edmond city limits Rebates are first come, first served until funds are dispersed Here are some suggestions of purchases that can help support Edmond small retailers and restaurants: Gift certificates and gift cards Pay it forward – Buy a gift card or certificate for someone else Shop your small retailer’s online stores Carry out or delivery meals Buy a meal for someone in need Buy a movie ticket or other entertainment passes for an event to look forward to Purchase car parts for your vehicle (only parts purchases would be eligible for rebate, not labor for repairs) For questions, please contact Kristen King at

kking@edmondchamber.com or call (405) 216-2031.

Please note their staff will not be in the office during weekend hours but will be reachable by email regarding your questions.

You can find the 2022 Holiday Rebate Program Submission Form at www.edmondchamber.com under the events tab.

Chickasaw documentary “Montford: An Original Brand” available now A year ago, I wrote about the Chickasaw nations Production of a famous ranch in Oklahoma. There is a sequel out for you to see. The life of historic Chickasaw rancher Montford Johnson inspired the feature film, “Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher,” which can currently be viewed on Netflix. Along with the feature film, Chickasaw Nation Productions produced “Montford: An Original Brand.” This 48-minute documentary is now available on DVD at select locations within the Chickasaw Nation and online.

Narrated by Peter Coyote, the Chickasaw Heritage Series documentary follows Johnson, his family and his associates as they build their cattle operations from the ground up. “Montford: An Original Brand” offers a distinctive perspective into the life of one of Oklahoma’s great cattlemen. Johnson was known across the region as a fair and successful businessperson.

They can also be purchased online at ChickasawPress.com.

The Chickasaw Nation also released educational materials based on Johnson’s life. This curriculum can be used to supplement the educational impact and accompany the documentary. The material is designed to provide learning opportunities for elementary and secondary students, telling the story of the Chickasaw people through their own words and experiences.

“The Chickasaw Nation produces feature films, documentaries and school curriculum to tell the story of how Chickasaws have impacted events in world history. Being able to talk about events from the Chickasaw point of view using film is powerful,” Philip Sullivan, director of video production at the Chickasaw Nation, said. “Teachers are already using the supplemental curriculum that we offer. Teachers will be able to complement ‘Montford: An Original Brand’ with the curriculum provided.”

“Montford: An Original Brand” and curriculum are part of the Heritage Series produced by the Chickasaw Nation. Other productions in the Chickasaw Heritage Series and corresponding curricula include “First Encounter,” “Pearl Carter Scott: On Top of the World” and “Bearer of the Morning: The Life of Te Ata Thompson Fisher.”

Chickasaw historians, researchers, archaeologists, tribal elders and educators contributed to the writing process of the documentaries and teaching plans.

Each film focuses on a specific event or individual throughout the Chickasaw Nation’s history. Corresponding curriculum is complete with tailored reading material, discussion questions, student activities, quizzes and references for convenience.

“It’s great that the Chickasaw Nation is creating curriculum,” said Bernadette Ward of Tulsa’s Will Rogers College High and Junior High School during a 2019 conference introducing Chickasaw curriculum.

“Having lived in Oklahoma and surrounded by so many different (First American) nations, it’s important that people know about them. Students need to know where and how this state was created and where we came from. We are surrounded by great cultures; we have to hear from them.

Each curriculum is aligned with the Oklahoma Academic Standards as outlined in the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s 2014 Social Studies guide. The documentaries and teaching plans introduce students to significant Chickasaw events that impacted world history and historic sites in Oklahoma and beyond.

The curriculum can be obtained at no charge at Chickasawfilms.com/Education.

It is curious to me that these important parts of Oklahoma history have not been part of what we teach in our schools. It is taking the Chickasaw Nation to provide this part of our history. It is no surprise to me that they have taken it on and just did the work themselves. No crying over spilled milk, they just get the job done.

Chickasaw Nation Productions was established in 2009 as a result of Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby’s vision to develop film production to preserve the stories of the Chickasaw people.

The goal of Chickasaw Nation Productions is to educate audiences by producing feature films and documentaries with accurate, positive portrayals of Chickasaw people, history and culture.

Each film illustrates how Chickasaw culture played an important role in the lives of the individuals and events portrayed in the films, and how those individuals and events influenced the world around them.

Chickasaw Nation Productions’ movies and documentaries can be purchased in Ada, Oklahoma, at the Chickasaw Market located at 105 W. Main, and the Chickasaw Press, 1020 N. Mississippi Ave. (Ray Hibbard may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- Weekend calendar of Events ......................................................Page 6.

---- New career tech director ............................................................Page 8.

---- Columnist points out two huge lies by two presidents ............Page 10.

---- Smag looks at vanilla ................................................................Page 11.

---- George Gust reviews film’ ........................................................Page 14.

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

---- UCO will end football season Saturday ....................................Page 17.

---- Comics ....................................................................................Page 18.

---- Jesus House seeks donations ....................................................Page 19.

This and so much more in this week’s edition

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2022 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing. edmondlifeandleisure.com facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 5

Cycle 66

Part of the Cycle 66 race took some of the participants by the Oklahoma State Capitol in OKC. See article Page 7

Page 6 • November 10, 2022 • 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.)

Oct. 24 Zachary Ruben Gomez, 37 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC. Joshua Shane Fields, 35 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Oct. 25 Zachary Bolin Griffin, 24 of Edmond. Operate (DUI/APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Amy Kristine Reynolds, 39 of Edmond. Petty larceny and misdemeanor warrant.

Jessica Diane Hurd, 44 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Toneesha Wintrice Clark, 34, of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Oct. 26 Jordan Wade Perry, 28 of Sweetwater, Okla.

Three felony warrants and false personation of another.

Cayla Rae McCathern, 26 of Clinton. Possess drug paraphernalia, destroying evidence and possess CDS. Ivan Daniel Prentup Sr., 44 of Boulder, Colo.

Public intoxication.

Jinhong Liu, 63 of Edmond. Engage/solicit prostitution.

Oct. 27 Ryan Levi Martinez, 37 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence

of alcohol.

Nathan Richard Gray, 38 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear and public intoxication.

Michael Angelo Smith, 34 homeless. Misdemeanor.

Ricky Allen King, 39 of Moore. Felony warrant.

Oct. 28 Gage Marshall Langley, 27 homeless. Carrying a harmful weapon and three counts of failure to appear.

Tyquanna Shdiamond Gresham, 21 of Edmond.

Misdemeanor warrant, failure to appear and all other grand larceny.

Ivan Daniel Prentup Sr., 44 of Boulder, Colo.

Trespassing and public intoxication.

William Frank House Jr., 63 of Tulsa. Public intoxication.

Oct. 29 Ishmael Andreas Garibay, 27 of Del City. Two counts of failure to appear.

Erick Michael Holzhausen, 33 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Tyrone Alexander Kelley, 44 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer.

Charles Derek Hodges, 32 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

David Henry Wright, 34 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Syeda Masooma Abedi, 42 homeless. Public intoxication.

Travis Heath Riddles, 24 of Edmond. Use firearm while committing a felony, possess firearm after conviction of a felony and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Oct. 30 Trevor Justin Schaefer, 20 of Edmond. Social

host violation and possession of marijuana.

Justin Lee Ramsey, 41 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

William Trent Littlejohn, 31 of Choctaw. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more, carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS. Ryan Dale McWaters, 39 of Edmond. Possess drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and petty larceny.

Ivan Daniel Prentup Sr., 44 of Boulder, Colo.

Public intoxication.

Oct. 31 Trenton Alan Reynolds, 33 of Guthrie. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS. Donna Alaine Jordan, 62 of Guthrie. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS Jennifer Joy Todd, 43 homeless. Trespassing.

Dionte Tarron Anderson, 33 homeless. Three misdemeanor warrants and failure to appear.

Kylie Adam Taylor-Qualls, 33 of Blanchard. Misdemeanor warrant.

Moses Oteno Sedah, 41 of Forney, Texas. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .15 or more.

Nov. 1 Kaleb Arthur Dunbar, 18 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Marleny Avala, 18 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Billy Joe Martin, 52 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Scott Anthony Lehman Jr., 37 homeless. Breaking and entering.

Javonne Jakeem Cassey Blue, 18 of Edmond.

Petty larceny.

Weekend calendar of events, Nov. 10-13 What’s Happening This Weekend Nov. 10-13 ---- In the Gallery ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Downtown in December ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- The Polar Express ---- OKC Zoo Safari Lights ---- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit ---- Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors ---- Nerf Battles ---- Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm ---- Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch ---- Barrel Futurities of America World Championships ---- Cocoa & Carols ---- Maxwell Quartet ---- Live Music at Frenzy ---- Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend ---- Small Works, Great Wonders ---- Signature Tour ---- Sunday Spotlight: Traditional Seminole Outfit ---- Drop-In Drawing: Art of the Northwest Coast Bowl Still Life ---- American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show ---- PAMBE GHANA’s Global Market ---- UCO Department of Theatre Arts presents: Significant Other ---- Veterans Celebration ---- Oklahoma Christmas Show ---- Guided Walking Tour ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Bolero!

---- Holiday Craft Bazaar ---- Round Barn Rendezvous

Extra Information In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Featuring Behnaz Sohrabian; Free; edmondfinearts.com Edmond Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 5 – Sun, Jan 15; hours vary; edmondicerink.com Downtown in December Location: Downtown OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 3 – Jan 27, 2023; downtownindecember.com Devon Ice Rink Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 11 – Sun, Jan 29, 2023; downtownindecember.com

The Polar Express Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum Extra Info: Sat, Nov 12 – Tue, Dec 27; okcthepolarexpressride.com OKC Zoo Safari Lights Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden Extra Info: Sat, Nov 12 – Sun, Jan 1, 2023; okczoo.org Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Wed, Oct 5 – Thu, Aug 31; edmondhistory.org Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road: American Musical Ambassadors Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: Sun, May 1 – Sat, Dec 1; edmondhistory.org Nerf Battles Location: The Hive Basketball Complex Extra Info: Fri, Sep 2---- Sat, Dec 17; 6 – 8 p.m.; $13/hr or $20/2 hr; arena51fun.com Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm Location: Orr Family Farm Extra Info: Sat, Sep 24 – Sat, Nov 12; orrfamilyfarm.com Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch Location: 720 S Henney Rd, Arcadia, OK Extra Info: Wed, Sep 21 – Sun, Nov 13; Wed – Fri: 1 p.m. – dark; Sat: 10 a.m. – dark; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; parkhurstranch.com Barrel Futurities of America World Championships Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: Sat, Nov 12 – Sat, Nov 19; lazye.com Cocoa & Carols Location: Oklahoma Christian University – Baugh Auditorium Extra Info: Thu, Nov 10; 7:30 p.m.; Free; oc.edu.com Maxwell Quartet Location: Armstrong Auditorium Extra Info: Thu, Nov 10; $30; 7:30 a.m.; armstrongauditorium.org Live Music at Frenzy Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Fri, Nov 10; Sat, Nov 12; Fri: The Brave Amigos @ 7 p.m.; Sat: Kyle Brewer @ 7:30 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage

Museum Extra Info: Fri, Nov 11 ---- Sat, Nov 12; nationalcowboymuseum.org Small Works, Great Wonders Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Fri, Nov 11; 6 – 9 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, Nov 12 & Sun, Nov 13; 1 ---- 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Sunday Spotlight: Traditional Seminole Outfit Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sun, Nov 13; 1 – 1:30 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Drop-In Drawing: Art of the Northwest Coast Bowl Still Life Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sun, Nov 13; 2 – 3 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Extra Info: Thu, Oct 17 – Sat, Nov 19; aqha.com PAMBE GHANA’S Global Market Location: Northpark Mall Extra Info: through Sat, Dec 24; 10 a.m. -6 p.m. daily; pambeghana.org UCO Department of Theatre Arts presents: Significant Other Location: University of Central Oklahoma: Mitchell Hall Theatre Extra Info: Thu, Nov 10 – Sun, Nov 13; Thu & Sat: 7:30 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; uco.edu Veterans Celebration Location: Edmond Festival Market Place Extra Info: Fri, Nov 11; 4:30 – 6 p.m.; facebook.com Oklahoma Christmas Show Location: OKC Fairgrounds Extra Info: Fri, Nov 11 – Sun, Nov 13; Fri & Sat; a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun: 10 a.m. -5 p.m.; okcfairgrounds.com Guided Walking Tour Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 11; 10 – 11 a.m.; starts at 1 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 7

Hundreds in Downtown Edmond Sunday

Cycle 66 event keeps growing

By Richard Stephens, Jr. “For Route 66, fellowship, fitness, and promoting Edmond,” explained Jennifer Seaton, Edmond Tourism Director and Chairperson of Cycle 66, on why she bicycled 33 miles on Nov 6th.

Similar comments came from many of the 835 bicyclists from 11 states who converged on “Cycle City” to quickly or leisurely - depending on one’s purpose and abilities – pedal on four rural and urban routes or compete in high speed Criterium races. That’s a lot of miles and smiles – and tired muscles. Seaton estimated 5,000 people attended.

Lt Governor Matt Pinnell helped kick off the action at 8:00 am. “We’re excited to have this. It helps Edmond and Oklahoma rediscover the importance of Route 66.”

Three hundred and twenty-four people pedaled 66 miles through Edmond, Arcadia (passing Pops 66 and the Round Barn on Route 66), Luther, and OKC (passing Oklahoma’s State Capitol on Route 66). Tony Delavega, a Cycle 66 Ambassador, rode 66 miles but not easily. “It was tough,” he admitted, “but happy to make it. My legs were cramping as we made the big climb…to Memorial Road.”

A 33-mile rectangular shaped route was followed by 278 cyclists who rode south, turned west on NE 4th Street, then turned north on Lincoln Blvd to

Riding by Pops in Arcadia. pass the State Capitol on their way back to Edmond.

Many stopped at OU Medical Center’s pit stop. Laurance Hall said it was “the best ever rest stop.” Austin Crose of Edmond summed up his participation: “It was a good ride. Beautiful weather.”

Less strenuous, more family friendly choices were available too. The 10-mile route drew 91 bicyclists on a trip through downtown Edmond, the University of Central Oklahoma campus, and Edmond’s parks and bike paths.

Kids under age 10 rode their bikes with training wheels and tricycles on the one-mile Kids’ Route. Bounce houses

Tasting event set at Gourmet Gallery Gourmet Gallery, located in Edmond at 3325 S. Boulevard, #107, will host a tasting event on Saturday, Nov. 12 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., featuring the product line, Butcher BBQ from Wellston, OK. David Bouska, Pitmaster/Owner of Butcher BBQ, will be here sampling and demonstrating his cooking techniques for turkey and other items on his cooking trailer complete with recipes.

Come sample many other products perfect for your holiday entertaining and gift giving.

A 20% off discount storewide will be offered.

For more information please contact: Janet McDonald or Cindy Utecht of The Gourmet Gallery at 405-715-3663. You may also e-mail them at info@thegourmetgallery.com

See Event, Page 11

Page 8 • November 10, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Brent Haken named Oklahoma CareerTech state director

Brent Haken

The Oklahoma State Board of Career and Technology Education has selected Brent Haken as the ninth state director of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education.

Haken will begin his official duties as state director in January. He comes to Oklahoma CareerTech from Morrison Public Schools, where he has served as superintendent since 2019.

“Oklahoma has the nation’s premier system for career and technology education because of the foundation laid by passionate and dedicated Oklahomans

and the continued efforts of our state’s best team members,” Haken said. “My desire has always been to be in a position that helps people make a positive impact on their family, community and state. Empowering people through education moves Oklahoma forward!

“I could not be more excited to serve as part of the Oklahoma CareerTech team. Our role of serving the state with innovative workforce development that meets the needs of our communities proves to be more essential now than ever before. Many of my greatest experi-

ences have been as a CareerTech student and teacher. I am honored to be in a position to give back to our state by working with all arms of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education, unifying our efforts to better the lives of Oklahomans.”

Haken became elementary assistant principal and special education director in Morrison Public Schools in July 2015 and high school principal in July 2016. He also served as testing coordinator. Before moving to Morrison, he taught agricultural education in Wellston and Stillwater.

Edmond Genealogical Society meeting is scheduled for Nov. 21 On Monday, Nov. 21, at 6:30 p.m. the Edmond Genealogical Society’s speaker will be Kathy Patterson. Mrs. Patterson will be talking about the concept of Wikitree as a totally free website with one profile for everyone who ever lived.

That’s obviously an impossible goal, but Wikitreers create profiles for people in their own research, with documentation and sources. They then may form collaborative groups to create the best documentation known today for each profile. She will talk about safeguards for your own work, privacy issues, wonderful widgets that can be created using Wikitree, and how to handle conflict, with slides demonstrating Wikitree in action.

Kathy Patterson has been interested in genealogy since she received a DAR American History award in sixth grade. She joined DAR in 1970.

After teaching for seven years on the college level in Iowa, she and her husband served for 17 years as Evangelical missionaries in Latin America, that is, Colombia and Mexico City.

Upon returning to the US, she taught 26 years in public schools in Texas and Oklahoma and retired in June

2019. Mrs. Patterson has been a member of Wikitree since 2010 and is now a Leader Emeritus. She is the proud mother of three and grandmother of twelve. The Pattersons live on the family farm in Hydro in a rock house built by her grandparents in 1945. She is a 16year breast cancer survivor.

Meetings are free and open to the public. Programs start at 6:30 p.m.

Edmond GenealogiPatterson cal Society meetings are held the third Monday of the month at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 15700 N. Penn, Oklahoma City. Enter through the doors on the south side of the building.

The church offers plenty of parking and is fully handicap accessible. For more information on EGS, go to: www.edmondgensoc.org, or visit us on Facebook at Edmond Genealogical Society. If any changes are made to this event, we will post the information on our Facebook page and website.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 9

Luna and her special human friend, Mike Penning, bring love and good cheer when they visit various groups.

Vet & therapy dog Luna lauded for ongoing service

By Rose Drebes Edmond Air Force Veteran Mike Penning and his therapy dog Luna are being honored by the national Veterans of Foreign Wars for their dedication to the country and community. #StillServing recognizes veterans who continue to serve in their community after the military, Michelle Cheesman, senior account manager, Sturges Word Communications, said.

“An Iraq veteran, Penning and Luna are #StillServing as ambassadors of love and good cheer during their visits at various functions, schools and retirement homes in Oklahoma City where Luna completes 30 different tricks,” she said. “Penning and Luna completed training through the nonprofit A New Leash On Life and have volunteered at one or more events a week since getting certified.

“Penning is #StillServing because he enjoys sharing the love and comfort of his dog with others.”

Mike joined the Air Force as an airman in 1980. He went on to become involved in ROTC and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1984.

Edmond Air Force Veteran Mike Penning and his dog Luna have been honored as part of the VFW's #StillServing initiative.

“I retired in 2005 as a lieutenant colonel with almost 23 years of service,” he said. “I was stationed all over the U.S. (Mather AFB, Calif.; Ft Rucker, Ala.: Indian Springs AF Aux Field, Nev.; Hill AFB, Utah; Honolulu, Hi.; Kirtland AFB, N.M.; Randolph AFB, Texas; Nellis AFB, Nev.; Beale

AFB, Calif.) so I moved about every 23 years.

“I flew UH-1N helicopters in my early career and then transitioned to the HH-60G Pavehawk helicopter where I flew combat search and rescue (CSAR). I did two deployments for Operation Northern Watch (Iraq) in 2000 and 2001 flying combat rescue. I was the squadron commander (66th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron) for my second deployment.”

Luna was adopted by Mike from the Bella Foundation when she was 6months-old.

“Since she is a rescue, I have no idea of her breed,” Mike said. “She's 100 perfect to me!”

Mike and Luna have visited such places as John Ross Elementary, Touch Mark Retirement Home Memory Care and Town Village. They do several events each year, such as for the University of Oklahoma sororities, School of Health Sciences, School of Engineering and Welcome Back Week.

“Luna was a 2022 OU Dance Marathon participant,” Mike said. “She raised over $1,000 and attended the dance marathon event at OU.”

Luna performs 30 tricks, including faint, rebound off a wall, pray, circle, high five/ten, "mountain goat" (jumps Mike’s back), dance, cookie paw and cookie head, hide and seek, "soldier" (crawls), "where's Luna?”, belly rub, barks at correct numbers for math, get your tail, frisbee retrieve, heel, sit, stay, down, roll over and head down.

Mike said he loves sharing the bond he has with Luna with others.

“I served in the military where it was a profession of arms to ensure our country was protected,” he said. “The career tended to harden the soul because of the near-death experiences and reality of what we did. This takes an emotional toll.

“Luna and I now get to serve in a loving, kind, joyful, and emotionally supportive role. It is the complete opposite of my military service and has had such a spiritually calming effect on me. She is such an amazing dog.”

Honorees receive a certificate, are promoted on VFW’s website, social media channels and in the VFW newsletter. For more information, visit todaysvfw.org/media/

Page 10 • November 10, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Blatant political lies

By Steve Gust We are going to press before Tuesday’s election so I can’t comment on results.

But I can talk about some the political lies told during the campaigns.

Steve Gust In the lives of politicians there are lies and then there are blatant lies.

And the blatant lies are so outrageous on so many levels.

The two great whoppers during this recent cycle were from two men who weren’t even running this time.

One was from President Biden and the other from President Obama.

Biden publicly said that gasoline was $5 a gallon when he took office in January of 2021. Only people who don’t know how to tie their shoes believe that.

And Obama went around saying that voters couldn’t allow the GOP to win because the GOP was going

to end Social Security.

I challenge Obama to find any GOP leader who made that claim.

He can’t because it never happened.

It’s outrageous any president would lie so brazenly. A president doesn’t make off the cuff comments. These lies were planned by aides and the president himself.

And secondly, it’s outrageous that the national press doesn’t report on these lies. And if they ever did, they would never fact-check the falsehoods.

Of course it would be different if it were a conservative making something up.

Finally, it’s outrageous that the public doesn’t hold Obama and Biden responsible for their blatant lying.

And it’s also wrong that the public doesn’t demand, in no uncertain terms, that the national press stop protecting these people. CBS News, and the rest of them, are simply PR advocates for liberalism.

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

Justice reform studied Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, over the past few weeks has held several interim studies examining reforms he sees as necessary to update Oklahoma's criminal justice system.

The studies took place before the House Criminal Justice and Corrections Committee, which Humphrey chairs.

"My intent is to completely change the criminal justice system so we are better addressing repeat offenders and holding true criminals accountable for their actions. This is the heart of public safety," Humphrey said.. "But, we must stop treating everyone like a criminal.

Some people are dealing with substance abuse and addiction issues.

Some people are dealing

with mental illness or a trauma in their lives. We need to get these people the appropriate help, which turns out is much more cost-effective than throwing them in prison.

We also need to revise our probation and parole system."

Humphrey first looked at funding and data collection since the passage of State Question 781.

In 2016, state voters passed State Question 780, changing simple drug possession and low-level property crimes from felonies to misdemeanors.

It's companion bill, SQ781, was intended to take funds saved from SQ780 and spend them on substance abuse and mental health services.

In his study, Humphrey found the state has money avail-

able to spend on substance abuse and mental health services, but there must be a will to move the money from corrections to these diversion programs.

"Look, if we keep sending money to prisons, they will find a way to use everything we send them," Humphrey said. "But if we want true reform, we need to start sending money to the programs that help address the root of the problem."

This week, Humphrey studied community sentencing and supervision, which would revise the state's probation and parole system.

Community sentencing allows partnerships between the state and one or more county governments using public and private entities to deliver services to the sentencing court for punishment of eligible felony offenders. The goal is to protect the public while improving the criminal justice system by increasing the availability of punishment and treatment programs to eligible offenders.

Better supervision holds offenders more accountable and reduces many crimes, Humphrey said.

One idea shared during the study is to divide the state into judicial districts and have probation and parole efforts currently handled by different county district attorney offices, state agencies and non-profit organizations brought together under one system. Humphrey suggested using data collection to help identify funding and supervision needs.

Lankford wants Dem fiscal damage revealed

By Sen. James Lankford Senator James Lankford last week joined Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) and their colleagues in sending a letter to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) demanding a swift and thorough assessment of the short- and long-term effects of the Democrats’ reckless spending and inflationary policies on the nation’s fiscal future.

“We write to obtain CBO’s assessment of the effects of rapid acceleration of interest rates on net interest costs of servicing the $31-trillion-plus, and growing, federal debt, and effects of the runaway 40year high consumer price inflation that has been hammering American families and eroding workers’ paychecks,” the Senators wrote.

“Given the upcoming two-day meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee on November 1st and 2nd, at which it is widely expected that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates by at least 75 basis points, please reply as soon as possible after November 2nd so that lawmakers and the public can be equipped with the most accurate data possible when making policy decisions,” the Senators continued.

Lankford and Daines are joined by Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John

Cornyn (R-TX), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Pat Toomey (RPA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Barrasso (R-WY), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), John Thune (R-SD), Mike Rounds (RSD), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Todd Young (R-IN), and Tim Scott (R-SC).

The following is their letter.

Dear Director Swagel: We write to obtain CBO’s assessment of the effects of rapid acceleration of interest rates on net interest costs of servicing the $31-trillion-plus, and growing, federal debt, and effects of the runaway 40year high consumer price inflation that has been hammering American families and eroding workers’ paychecks.

Since the start of his term, President Biden has signed into law policies that will add $4.8 trillion in additional deficit spending to our economy before 2031. The gross national debt has now surpassed $31 trillion, which amounts to $236,000 per household, or $93,000 per person in America.

The market yield on US Treasury Securities at a 10Year Constant Maturity, a common indicator of our nation’s long-term borrowing costs, has climbed as high as 4.24 percent in recent weeks. This rate is the highest since the 2008 Global Financial Crisis and

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.

raises concerns for American families facing both inflation and, increasingly, higher costs of credit and mortgages. Higher interest rates also contribute to concerns about the US’s economic competitiveness, economic growth, and long-term fiscal stability. We must take action to reduce excess and unsustainable spending and limit inflationary pressures.

High inflation since March of last year, following passage of the partisan, inflation-fueling American Rescue Plan Act, has eroded the purchasing power of workers’ wages. Inflation in the consumer price index (CPI-U) has been at 40-year highs, registering above 8 percent for seven consecutive months through September. The historically high and persistent inflation has eroded the real value of the public debt by trillions, amounting to an insidious and effective default on a significant portion of U.S. debt.

As CBO identified in its May 25 budget and economic outlook for 2022 to 2032: “higher projected inflation and interest rates have pushed up outlays for interest payments on federal debt…” In that recent outlook CBO also noted that, at the time, CBO had raised their 10-year deficit projection by $2.4 trillion; $1.5 trillion of the increased deficit projection stems from increased projected net interest costs from higher interest rates and higher inflation. Of great concern, CBO also identified that: “After 2023, debt is projected to increase as a percentage of GDP, rising to 110 percent at the end of 2032. At that point, federal debt would be higher as a percentage of GDP than at any point in the nation’s history—and heading still higher in the following two decades.”

CBO’s May outlook also noted that “rising interest rates and accumulating debt cause net interest rates to double as a percentage of GDP,” from 1.6 percent in 2021 to 3.3 percent by 2032. Meanwhile, over that same period, CBO projects that discretionary spending as a percentage of GDP will decline from 7.3 percent in 2021 to 6.2 percent by 2032. Such results display a crowding out of “fiscal space,” with increased amounts necessary to service the national debt displacing amounts available for discretionary spending programs.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 11

Hundreds of bikers converged on Downtown Edmond Sunday morning.

Event From Page 7 filled up.

Seeking an adrenaline rush? Eight Criterium (or “Crit”) races challenged 96 riders age 5 (Kids Race) to 40+ (Men’s Masters). A Crit is “a short course, closed course, high speed racing event…averaging between 24 and 30 miles an hour for the duration of their race going around the streets of downtown Edmond in a six-turn racing course,” explained Tony Steward, who owns OKC Velo – Bike Lab Club.

Whew! He partnered with Cycle 66, Inc., to organize this first-time event for Cycle 66. Michael Vanni, 26, of OKC won the Men’s B and C races.

Off the cycling path on 1st Street, 25 vendors like Hilton Garden Inn, Everything D&D, Phat Tire Bike Shop, and Oklahoma Route 66 Association offered an assortment of goods and services. Edmond storefronts The Mule, Café Envoke, plant, and Sunnyside Diner satisfied hundreds of hungry stomachs.

Midday, Seaton provided an update. “I’ve been amazed at the amount of people out of state. It’s been an opportunity to experience Edmond and Route 66.” She thanked her Visit Edmond staff, Dusty Green, Sherri Bannister, and all other helpers

to make it a success.

A portion of event proceeds goes to Autumn Life Behavioral Health Center, a geriatric psychiatry inpatient program at OU Health Edmond Medical Center for adults ages 55 and up and to the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting and preserving Route 66 statewide.

Rhys Martin, President of the Route 66 Association who manned a vendor table, said they are “blessed by the support from Cycle 66. Route 66 is one big family and it helps us continue our mission and preservation, promotion, and education.”

Page 12 • November 10, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Still think Bruce is the Boss?

Nope, it’s Va Va Vanilla

By Carol Smaglinski The essence of vanilla, a little bit of paradise, flavors half of the ice cream in the United States and aside from salt, it is the world’s most used flavoring.

Only a half or a full teaspoon of this tropical seasoning adds leasure to any sweets, plain yogurt or a tiny drop in a cup of coffee vor hot chocolate.

This marvelous extract comes from the plant known as vanilla planifolia, a vine that produces a beautiful yellow orchid and as a bonus, a chocolate colored vanilla bean, which is a long, skinny, shriveled seed pod, about the size of a pencil and odorless. Its dark color and characteristic aroma develops during a very slow process of drying.

Inside that bean are thousands of tiny seeds, substances that give us the most pursued fragrance along with flavor. If you've ever eaten high quality vanilla ice cream, you will then recognize the miniscule seeds.

Those orchid vines are mainly grown on Madagascar and islands nearby.

Storing vanilla beans in cupboards at home can present some problems because the longer the storage time, the more they harden up and become less aromatic.

It is best to keep vanilla beans in a tight jar under refrigeration.

Another way is to bury a few beans in a small jar of sugar and then use the flavored sugar in a dessert recipe. Keep vanilla in a cool, dark place for up to a year, and vanilla beans for only six months.

In supermarkets, purchase vanilla, which comes in many forms, in small quantities, but do buy the best on the shelf as the imitation varieties can be less aromatic and can leave a bitter aftertaste.

The flavors of vanilla, sugar and coconut in the following recipe will make your mouth water. So, let loose and go for it.

The triple flavors bring together a special balance that plays nicely with meringue. The good part is that you

Storing vanilla beans in cupboards at home can present some problems because the longer the storage time, the more they harden up and become less aromatic.

can do them ahead, serve them for a snack or after dinner under candlelight with a glass of wine.

Just don't attempt to make these cookies on a rainy day as they will just end up sticky. Use eggs at room temperature as they will be more elastic and will absorb air needed for expansion.

Watch it, as just one tiny speck of egg yolk in the egg whites can prevent the egg whites from turning into any foam.

Coconut and Vanilla Meringues 1 bag of sweetened coconut (14 oz.)

1 can of sweetened condensed milk 2 tsp. vanilla extract 3 large egg whites at room temperature ½ tsp. salt Start by heating the oven to 325 degrees. Gather all needed ingredients, and then line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Mix coconut, milk and vanilla and set aside. In the bowl of a standard mixer, whisk the separated egg whites and salt on high speed until stiff peaks form. Add the coconut mixture to the whites and swirl just a couple of times.

Using two large spoons, drop the batter onto the baking sheets, spacing them out. Bake for 20 minutes or until they have turned golden brown.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet pans for about three minutes and then move them to a wire rack to cool completely.

The great ‘Smokeout’ is Nov. 17 Smokers across Oklahoma are encouraged to quit tobacco for a day, or a lifetime, during the Great American Smokeout on Nov. 17. Since the 1970s, the event has offered a new beginning to many tobacco users, and this year it includes a limited-time offer providing added incentive to Oklahomans thinking about quitting tobacco.

Oklahomans who sign up for the Helpline's All Access plan get eight weeks of free patches, gum or lozenges, plus five quit coach calls if they register by Nov. 30.

“Tobacco users need critical support on their journey to quit, and the Great American Smokeout offers an opportunity to build a better, healthier life,” said Julie Bisbee, TSET executive director. “Quitting can be hard, but support and a thoughtful quit plan increase the chances of success. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline provides free resources and support to all Oklahomans who want to quit tobacco and take control

of their health.”

The Helpline encourages Oklahomans to start small and finish big during the Great American Smokeout by acknowledging successes and tackling tobacco cravings head-on. The Helpline offers tips for beating cravings and getting ahead of stressors at OKhelpline.com.

In addition to tips and resources online, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline provides free services, including text and email support and free patches, gum or lozenges. Additionally, Quit Coaches are available 24/7 to assist in creating a customized quit plan.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to quitting tobacco. However, the Helpline’s evaluation results show that those who work with a Quit Coach and use the full range of services available have the best chance of quitting.

Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-7848669) or visit OKhelpline.com to explore free services and resources.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 13

PHOTO PROVIDED

Chamber officials and others welcome Valor Bank to Downtown Edmond.

Valor Bank marks Grand Opening in Downtown Edmond with Chamber Valor Bank recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their grand opening at 119 S. Broadway.

Valor Bank is guided by the philosophy that faithfulness to our commitments, valuing people, and courage to follow God’s will are what make Valor different. On September 12, 2014, a group of local bankers and business leaders purchased an existing bank charter, First State Bank, with the hope of building a bank not just in the community, but for the community. This vision was led by President & CEO, Josh Litsch, who wanted to reimagine what a local bank could be. In 2015, First State

Bank became Valor Bank, a name honoring our legacy and purpose.

They are focused on serving the community through real estate and business lending, FDIC-insured bank accounts, and joyfully giving 10% of profits to local nonprofits making a positive difference. They value a culture of excellence, generosity, humility, initiative, integrity, and respect.

Their commitment to values guides them in everything they do. They are grateful for everyone that has made the decision to bank with Valor and look forward to serving you and your family.

To learn more about Valor Bank, visit www.valor.bank.

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

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

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

Page 14 • November 10, 2020 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of ‘Ticket to Paradise’

A romcom film for most of the family

By George Gust “Ticket to Paradise” is a new star-led romantic comedy starring Julie Roberts and George Clooney. And follows a divorced couple who teams up and travels to Bali to stop their daughter from making the same mistake they think they made 25 years ago.

“Ticket to Paradise” is the kind of romcom throwaway movie that you find while scrolling through the newest releases on Netflix and say “I didn’t know That star was in This movie. However, in stark contrast to those single use romcoms “Ticket to Paradise” is a lighthearted travel log romcom that is bolstered by the charisma of its two main line stars.

“Ticket to Paradise” is a silly movie that has an over-the-top premise that you must check your disbelief for at the door.

The plot of the movie makes little sense upon any kind of scrutiny; why the rush to get married so quickly? The timeline of the story felt incredibly rushed for no other reason other than ‘relax it’s a movie!’ But “Ticket to Paradise” isn’t concerned

with keeping the viewer engaged with gripping plot, however it plays to the cheap seats in its broadly drawn comedy and beautiful tropical vistas.

While the low steaks plot and the sappy romantic plot could feel flat in the hands of lesser talent, when you bring in Roberts and Clooney you know you’re going to have a good time. Both Roberts and Clooney poke fun at themselves and aren’t afraid to play the uncommon situations for the

biggest laughs. Clooney especially sheds his self-serious persona and gets the easy laughs from the audience.

Ultimately “Ticket to Paradise” is the kind of movie you can watch with your grandparents, over a holiday break. The comedy is inoffensive and there’s such fun to be had with Roberts and Clooney playing up their movie star personas. And for those who don’t particularly want to spend the dozens of hours flying to Bali “Ticket to Paradise” is a nice travel log film to escape to the tropical waters as our Oklahoma weather gets cooler and cooler.

“Ticket to Paradise” is rated PG-13 for some strong language and brief suggestive material.

Now available in theaters.

3.5 out of 5 stars.

To reach George Gust for a comment on this review, please send an e-mail to him at this address gust.george@gmail.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

Julia Roberts and George Clooney return to the romantic comedy genre in an inoffensive, but enjoyable vacation in ‘Ticket to Paradise.

Answer on Page 19

Canterbury Voices in concert on Dec. 4 An Oklahoma City holiday tradition returns led by Canterbury Voices on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center Music Hall in downtown Oklahoma City. The halls will be decked and filled with carols and joyful, holiday standards, with caroling in the lobby from the Canterbury Youth Voices — and a visit from Santa!

Featuring John Rutter’s jubilant Gloria, and an expanded orchestrated arrangement of Z. Randall Stroope’s Hodie, this audience favorite will also feature a sing-a-long where everyone can join in the music. Joining the performance are Canterbury soloists Rod Porter with a jazz combo, Aubrey Chapin, the Canterbury Chamber Voices, and brass and percussionists from the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.

Artistic Director Dr. Randi Von Ellefson says, “I have been so fortunate to lead this amazing organization of choral artists.“ Tickets are now on sale and group discounts are available.

Call the Box Office at (405) 232- SING or visit CanterburyOKC.com

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: THANKSGIVING ACROSS 1. Poet Angelou 5. "Eureka!"

8. *Thanksgiving season 12. Bug-eyed 13. "Tiger Beat" centerfold 14. New York's ____ Island 15. Simmering feeling 16. Combustible rock 17. Short for Charlotte 18. *Thanksgiving sauce source 20. Singer Redding 21. Old hat 22. Bar in Ireland 23. *Macy's tradition 26. Gets ready for publication 30. Dr. Cornelius of film, e.g.

31. What's good for the goose is good for the ____ 34. Paul Bunyan stories and such 35. Parallelogram or heptagon 37. Charged particle 38. More cunning 39. Ant construction 40. Fluffy sweater material 42. Cribbage piece 43. Ancient Mesopotamian civilization 45. Maltreat 47. Sea, in Spain 48. Fraternity K 50. Hoodlum 52. *Massasoit's people 56. Do like QA 57. Opposite of written 58. Like watching paint dry 59. Togetherness 60. Move like sludge 61. S squared, e.g.

62. Eliza follower 63. Placeholder surname 64. Like hand-medowns DOWN 1. Painter Chagall 2. Lab gel 3. Hatha or bikram, e.g.

4. "To do" list 5. Be gaga over

6. Squirrel away 7. Comrade in arms 8. *Popular Thanksgiving TV entertainment 9. Nay sayer 10. "____ Fall in Love" song 11. Caustic substance 13. Cold brew (2 words) 14. Intangible storage 19. "The Red ____ of Courage" 22. A pop 23. Turkish bigwig 24. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 25. Brazilian coins 26. Former U.S. Attorney General Janet 27. a.k.a. nutria 28. Elms 29. Military uniform fabric 32. Columbus' vessel 33. *TV's National ____ Show on Thanksgiving

36. *1621 celebration location 38. Planktonic tunicate 40. Lungful 41. Small wave 44. Gangly 46. Popular carriage in royal procession 48. Semi-desert region in South Africa 49. Astonish 50. DNA segment 51. Final notice 52. *"Miracle on 34th Street" star 53. Yours and mine 54. Sheltered, nautically speaking 55. Hefty competitor 56. Give a nickname

Answers on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 15

Arledge & Associates Q&A

What to know about those sales tax audits (Editor’s Note: Cassie Divelbiss, CPA of Arledge & Associates, answers questions this on sales tax audits.)

Q. Are business owners with online commerce obligated to collect and remit sales tax?

A. The U.S. Supreme Court decided a landmark case in 2017, South Dakota v. Wayfair, that set precedent for merchants handling online transactions and their obligations to collect Divelbiss sales tax on remote purchases. Other states responded with similar laws, creating standards for sales tax online sellers and consumers are now familiar with as part of doing business. Although physical location is the first consideration in determining when businesses are legally obligated to collect and remit sales tax for online purchases, most states have adopted “economic nexus” rules. A business’ tax obligations come into play when sales cross a set threshold in terms of quantity, dollar amounts or both.

Q. What factors increase the likelihood of an audit?

A. Receiving an audit notice from a state tax authority is sometimes part of owning a business, with the possibility of audits on tax collection, sales and use tax.

Several factors can trigger a sales tax audit. Many states use systematic methods and data analytics to identify businesses at risk for underreporting or underpaying their sales taxes.

Thomson Reuters lists these five common factors that can trigger an audit: • Being in a high-risk industry with a reputation for substantial non-compliance • Operating in a complex industry with high revenue and transaction volumes • When a vendor or customer is audited, the financial trail may lead back to your business • A whistleblower reports your business to the tax authorities • Consistently filing sales tax reports late Your business also might be randomly selected for audit. Although there is no failsafe way to avoid being audited, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the sales and use tax laws in the states where you do business, analyze your nexus exposure and pay taxes on time in their designated jurisdictions.

Q. What steps can business owners take to prepare for a sales tax audit?

A. Taking prompt action is essential after receiving an audit notice.

Gathering and preparing the appropriate records takes time, so you

want to start the process immediately.

• Gather business records.

Identify the period selected for audit and start gathering the specified records. The audit notice typically includes an Information Document Request (IDR) that lists the records the auditor wants to review, such as bank statements, sales tax returns and work papers for the audit period, general ledgers, chart of accounts, sales and purchase journals, sales and purchase invoices, exemption certificates for any tax-exempt sales, federal and state income tax returns or franchise tax returns, depreciation schedules, shipping documentation and financial statements and trial balances for the audit period. Be prepared to explain any missing documents. If there is no IDR, set up a call to discuss the scope of the audit.

• Review your records for potential exposure areas. Review your documents to identify any potential exposure areas, including source data that doesn’t tie to the general ledger, workpapers that don’t match sales and use tax returns, using the wrong sales tax rate or exemption certificates. Look for potential underpayments and possible overpayments, such as using a higher sales tax rate or charging tax on nontaxable items.

• Develop a good working relationship with your auditor. Be professional, respectful and courteous, just as you would with any other business professional. Auditors have some discretion over penalties, so it is in your best interest to have a good working relationship • Get professional support.

Sales tax audits tend to be stressful and time consuming. A professional who is adept at tax accounting and handling audit requests can help manage the process by conducting the initial record review, hosting the auditor and answering questions.

Having an experienced professional’s help streamlines the process and can potentially save your business time and money.

Cassie Divelbiss, CPA, is a tax senior associate at Arledge, an Edmondbased public accounting firm. Arledge 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.

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.

Page 16 • November 10, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

UCO to end season Saturday

3036 Via Esperanza $879,000

1405 Irvine Dr $750,000

Nebraska Kearney kicked a 28-yard field goal as time expired to win 2018 over Central Oklahoma Saturday afternoon.

UCO is 5-5 following the loss and wrap up the 2022 season in Edmond against Central Missouri next weekend.

"We did a great job of turning the game around in the second half and to get the lead, but they got us in the end," UCO head football coach Adam Dorrel said. "We got on our heels on that last drive and they found a way to get it done."

Central Oklahoma trailed 17-6 in the second quarter and chipped away at that lead before taking an 18-17 lead with just under eight minutes to play in the game.

UCO had a chance to make it 2117, but Nicky Quevedo missed a 45yard field goal attempt with just over two minutes remaining.

Kearney drove 71-yards in the final two minutes before kicking the game-winning field goal.

Quevedo was 4-for-4 before missing the 45-yarder in the fourth quarter. He hit field goals from 36 yards, 39 yards, and two others from 45 yards.

Stephon Brown led Central Okla-

homa on Saturday. The 6-foot-5 quarterback was 9-for-18 passing with 136 yards and also had 21 carries for 113 yards and one touchdown.

Brown also caught his first career pass, a 15-yard reception.

Jaylen Cottrell added 44 yards on 16 carries, Nasir Kemper had seven yards on two carries, and Andrew Carney had two rushes for four yards.

Jacob Delso had one catch on Saturday for 38 yards. Dominique Dunn hauled in two passes for 38 yards to lead the passing attack.

UCO forced four turnovers in the game. Michael Slater forced an early fumble, Noah West also forced one on a sack, and Emmonte Davis forced a third fumble. UCO recovered all of those. And Connor Johnson added an interception in the game.

Dylan Buchheit led the defense with 11 tackles. Johnathan Mosley and Blake Barron both had five stops.

West, and Chase Faber, both recorded sacks on Saturday.

Central Oklahoma will close out the 2022 campaign Saturday, Nov. 12 against Central Missouri. The Bronchos will recognize their seniors before kickoff, which is scheduled for 2 p.m.

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Genealogists use DNA to trace find their family connections but did you know that stars have family groups, called star clusters. And those born in the same star cluster or family have similar elemental makeup creating a sort of “genetic fingerprint”.

The Oklahoma Home and Community Education Genealogy Group will host Wayne Harris-Wyrick on Wednesday, Nov. 16 as he presents “ Generations of Families….In the Stars.”

Mr. Harris-Wyrick, retired director of Kirkpatrick Planetarium of Science Museum Oklahoma now works full-

time as an author and with 4RV Publishing as the Non-Fiction and Tween & Teens Imprints editor. He has been writing astronomy columns for The Oklahoman since 1984 with astronomy and science fiction articles and short stories published nationally.

Harris-Wyrick has written and published numerous books for children also.

The OHCE Genealogy Group invites the public to join us at the Oklahoma County Extension office, 2500 NE 63rd Street at 10:00 a.m. as we learn more about star families and how it may be possible to link those families together.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 17

Receipts up by $2.5 billion

New month & a new record income Gross Receipts to the Treasury for the past 12 months surpassed last month’s record high of $17 billion by more than $200 million, State Treasurer Randy McDaniel announced last week.

Twelve-month gross receipts through October are $17.24 billion, up by $2.5 billion, or 17.3 McDaniel percent, from the prior 12 months.

Furthermore, this aggregate is more than $4 billion higher than the slowdown in June 2020 of $13 billion.

“Gross Receipts to the Treasury continue to rise,” said Treasurer McDaniel. “While inflationary pressures are offsetting the purchasing power of much of the growth, the trend lines from key rev-

enue sources remain favorable.”

Major revenue streams for the past 12 months have increased by rates ranging from 92 percent for oil and gas gross production collections to 2.6 percent for motor vehicle receipts. The largest components are taxes on income and sales. They show double-digit growth with income tax collections up 17.2 percent and the combined sales and use taxes up 11.4 percent.

Compared to last October, the economic results for the month are also robust. Total October collections of $1.48 billion are up by $204.6 million, or 16.1 percent, from October 2021. The highest percentage of growth is seen in oil and gas gross production receipts, up by 87 percent from the prior year. Sales and use tax collections continue to keep up with inflation, growing 8.5 percent compared to the same month of last year.

Workers comp rate decrease Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready last week announced that Oklahoma businesses should see another rate decrease in workers’ compensation insurance beginning on January 1, 2023. The Oklahoma Insurance Department has approved an annual filing with an 8.2 percent decrease in workers’ compensation insurance loss costs for 2023.

This marks the 12th consecutive year that the department has approved loss cost decreases for workers' compensation insurance. Oklahoma’s loss cost has decreased significantly from 2016 to 2021, averaging a 9.5 percent decrease per year.

Oklahoma’s cost decreases have exceeded countrywide decreases over the last 10 years. Moreover, Oklahoma’s lost-time claim frequency has come down significantly over the last 15 years (by almost 50%) and is projected to continue to decline into 2023.

“We are pleased to announce another signifi-

cant loss cost decrease that will help support Oklahoma workers and businesses who have struggled with inflation and economic difficulties caused by the pandemic,” Commissioner Mulready said. “Through our administrative system overseen by the Workers' Compensation Commission, the continued reform policies enacted by the Governor and legislature, and our cost-efficient, competitive workers' compensation insurance market, we continue to show employers that Oklahoma is an attractive place to do business."

Loss costs are the average cost of lost wages and medical payments of workers injured per $100 of payroll or as a percentage of payroll. The new loss costs will go into effect for new and renewing policies effective January 1, 2023.

If you have insurance questions or issues with your insurance company, please contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 1-800-522-0071 or visit our website at www.oid.ok.gov.

Cattlemen’s group names Reimer to director’s spot Administrator role with the The Oklahoma CattleFoundation, it was just a natumen’s Foundation anral and great step to take to nounced last week the make her the first Executive Dipromotion of Mariah rector of the Oklahoma CattleReimer to the role of Execumen’s Foundation. tive Director. Reimer has She is talented, passionate served in a contract adminfor the beef cattle industry and istrator position with the brings a wealth of foundation Cattlemen’s Foundation Reimer experience to this position. since February.

Great things are in store at the During her time with the Foundation, Riemer has been respon- Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation under her leadership.” sible for several key events including Reimer will be leading the Oklathe Clay Shoot, Steer Carcass Chalhoma Cattlemen’s Foundation to lenge and receiving the Foundation’s continually expand and increase first Grant. scholarship opportunities for rural She was also key to the first anand agricultural Oklahomans, nual Oklahoma’s Best Beef Steak fundraise to protecting the heritage Cookoff held at the Oklahoma City of the West through disaster relief, Stockyards in October.

Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association memorials, and endowments and provide high quality educational opExecutive Vice President Michael portunities for Oklahoma cattle proKelsey shared, “Mariah has done ducers. such a wonderful job in a contract

Other indicators As measured by the Consumer Price Index, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the annual inflation rate at 8.2 percent in September.

The energy component of the index is up 19.7 percent over the year. The food index rose by 11.2 percent.

The Oklahoma unemployment rate in September was reported as 3.2 percent by the BLS. That is up from 3.1 percent in August. The U.S. jobless rate was listed as 3.5 percent in September, down by two-tenths of a percentage point from August.

The monthly Oklahoma Business Conditions Index contracted in October. The index for the month was set at 51.3, down from 55.6 in September. The outlook indicates slow growth during the next three to six months.

See Treasury, Page 18

Law firm is recognized Crowe & Dunlevy is pleased to announce that for the 13th consecutive year, U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” has awarded the firm with the most Tier 1 rankings in Oklahoma.* The firm received 78 Metropolitan Tier 1 practice area rankings with 58 Tier 1 rankings in Oklahoma City and 20 in Tulsa. Crowe & Dunlevy received 95 total tier rankings across the top three tiers in the publication’s 2023 report.

Additionally, Crowe & Dunlevy received 10 Metropolitan Tier 2 rankings in Oklahoma City, four in Tulsa and one in Dallas/Fort Worth. The firm also received one Metropolitan Tier 3 ranking in Oklahoma City and one in Dallas/Fort Worth.

Rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review from leading attorneys and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process.

Page 18 • November 10, 2022 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Treasury From Page 17 October collections October 2022 collections compared to gross receipts from October 2021 show: Total monthly gross collections are $1.48 billion, up by $204.6 million, or 16.1 percent.

Gross income tax collections, a combination of individual and corporate income taxes, generated $494.5 million, up by $80.4 million, or 19.4 percent.

Individual income tax collections are $450.5 million, an increase of $70.1 million, or 18.4 percent.

Corporate collections are $44 million, up by $10.3 million, or 30.7 percent.

Combined sales and use tax collections, including remittances on behalf of cities and counties, total $573.9 million – up by $44.8 million – or 8.5 percent.

Sales tax collections total $489.1 million, an increase of $36.9 million, or 8.2 percent.

Use tax receipts, collected on outof-state purchases including internet

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sales, generated $84.9 million, an increase of $7.9 million, or 10.3 percent.

Gross production taxes on oil and natural gas total $197.7 million, an increase of $91.9 million, or 86.9 percent.

Motor vehicle taxes produced $66.8 million, down by $1.3 million, or 1.9 percent.

Other collections composed of some 60 different sources including taxes on fuel, tobacco, medical marijuana, and alcoholic beverages, produced $144.6 million – down by $11.3 million, or 7.3 percent.

The medical marijuana tax produced $4.3 million, down by $672,321, or 13.4 percent from October 2021.

Twelve-month collections Combined gross receipts for the past 12 months compared to the prior period show: Gross revenue totals $17.24 billion.

That is $2.54 billion, or 17.3 percent, above collections from the previous 12 months.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 10, 2022 • Page 19

Jesus House seeks donations for Thanksgiving As thousands of Oklahomans face food insecurity this holiday season, Jesus House is requesting community donations to help those less fortunate enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Each year, the nonprofit distributes food baskets to families in need.

“Gathering around the table is a Thanksgiving tradition every family should enjoy,” said Jesus House CEO Jared Frazier. “These food baskets are distributed to low-income households in our community as part of our neighborhood outreach program. Thanksgiving dinner would not be possible for so many of our friends and neighbors without the public’s generosity.”

Requested food donations include frozen turkeys or hams, boxed stuffing mix, chicken broth, turkey or chicken gravy mixes, instant mashed potatoes, canned cranberries or cranberry sauce, canned yams and canned vegetables.

Shelf-stable dessert mixes and pie fillings are also appreciated.

Donations may be dropped off at Jesus House, 1335 West Sheridan Avenue in Oklahoma City until Nov. 17. Monetary donations are also accepted; checks with “Thanksgiving food baskets” in the memo line may be mailed to Jesus House at P.O. Box 60369 Oklahoma City, OK 73146.

“Last year, we distributed more than 1,000 food baskets to local families, with an average of four or five household members,” said Frazier.

“This Thanksgiving, we expect increased demand.

Thank you to every donor who helps us meet vital needs in the community we share.”

Food basket distribution begins at 8 a.m. on the Friday and Monday before Thanksgiving,

Please call (405) 232-7164 if you would like to help Nov. 18 and Nov. 21 until supplies are exhausted.

The Jesus House’s regular food basket distribution program provides resources to households experiencing food security each week. National statistics indicate Oklahoma is the fifth hungriest state in the nation, with one in five children and one in six older adults experiencing consistent

lack of food access.

Jesus House is an inner city, non-denominational, Christian Addiction & Recovery program, which also provides food to the homeless and low-income families of Oklahoma City. The Jesus House’s regular food basket distribution program provides hundreds of food baskets to needy households each week throughout the year.

Contact Jason Walmsley at (405) 232-7164, ext. 177 for more information about donating or visit Jesus House online at www.jesushouseokc.org.

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In light of CO COVID OVID 19 for the e time being, some s worship services may be suspended su uspended or online. on nline. services Ple ease check with h your house of o worship for more m informatiion.

Please information.

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