Edmond Life and Leisure - November 18, 2021

November 18, 2021 Vol. 22, No. 27

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Events returning

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.

DAR holds dedication See page 13

FRIDAY, November 19 Partly Cloudy High 58° Low 44°

An uptick from 2020 pandemic year Avery Smith

SATURDAY, November 20 Partly Cloudy High 65° Low 45°

SUNDAY, November 21 AM Clouds/PM Sun High 58° Low 37°

There are more events this year, compared to the same time a year ago.

Last year the University of Central Oklahoma football team missed its first season of play since World War II. (By the way, please see Page 18.

UCO’s coach Nick Bobeck has resigned) But now, our events calendar is again chalk full of events -- including some that were held last year.

One of those is Edmond Electric’s Luminance.

The kickoff for it is Nov. 20 at Mitch Park at 8 p.m. Last year the Luminance was open but there was not a kickoff for it. For more information please check out www.Edmondlights.com The annual Turkey Trot will also be Nov. 25 starting at the Downtown Community Center. It begins at 8 a.m.

Above you’ll notice the photo of Avery Smith.

She’s a student at Sequoyah Middle School. The school is preparing to put on its production of “Dear Edwina Jr.’”

PHOTO PROVIDED

It starts today at 6:30 p.m. and also has shows Friday and Saturday beginning at 6:30 p.m. as well. All tickets are $5 and the show will be at the Sequoyah Middle School Cafeteria. Several other schools around Edmond will also be holding shows this year. If you can, go out and support the students.

Next week is also Thanksgiving and the community meal will be held once again. It was canceled last year.

Organizers say the meal will be served through a drive-through process. Helping to contribute to its success is Citizens Bank of Edmond. They donated 120 turkeys for the meal. For more details, please see Page 9 of today’s issue.

Next week many people will be traveling. AAA reports that this year’s travel will be up 13 percent from last year and within five percent of what people traveled prior to the pandemic.

Our Calendar of Events can be found this week on Page 6. Please refer to the contact information.

Page 2 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

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

Superintendent addresses patron concerns

By Patty Miller During the Public Participation segment prior to the Nov. 1 Edmond School Board meeting, six parents voiced concerns about policies adopted by the school board members in the day-to-day dealings of the school district.

Superintendent Angela Grunewald answered their concerns with a post on the district’s website.

According to Public Relations Director Susan Parks-Schlepp this is not the first time Supt. Grunewald has chosen this form to answer questions raised by patrons.

A patron voiced concerns about books and subjects being taught including “Glass Castle”, a memoir of a young girl who comes of age in a dysfunctional family of nonconformist normals with a mother who is an eccentric artist and an alcoholic father.

The patron believed the book should not be taught in the grade level it was introduced because of words and actions in the book.

School board members were attacked verbally and called liberal Marxists as well as being accused of taking ESSER funds for salaries.

Other parents complained about the mask mandates and Critical Race Theory being taught in the schools.

One parent was concerned about Social-Emotional Curriculum being taught.

Grunewald said she felt it was important for the community to hear the facts.

“Many claims and accusations were made,” Grunewald said. “At that time (following the Parent Participation) I promised a response to those claims.”

Grunewald said on a personal note as she listened to the claims and criticism against the district, she had concerns.

“As I listened to the claims and criticism against our district, I was greatly distressed,” Grunewald said.

“These negative and sometimes false comments of a few are causing administrators and teachers to feel unsupported by a community that is known for its support of education.”

She added that statements without

the facts can cause problems.

“I felt it was important for our community to hear the facts,” Grunewald said.

The following information was taken from a document written by Supt. Grunewald and posted on the Edmond School District’s website following the Nov. 1 board meeting.

“Glass Castle” “Every summer our language arts teachers meet to review and update our reading list. The “Glass Castle” has been on our 10th-grade reading list for six years,” Grunewald said.

The “Glass Castle” is on the reading list as a personal narrative.

“It is in 10th grade because it fills the genre requirement for a non-fiction memoir work at this grade level,” Grunewald added, “ and it is College Board — approved and often used as a selection on the AP Literature test.”

As a memoir, the “Glass Castle” allows students to look into the life of someone else.

“In particular, this memoir shows how some deal with family tragedies, mental illness, and alcoholism. Vicariously students can learn lessons from others’ lives, including the difference an education can make, and the resilience required by some to overcome their circumstances,” Grunewald added.

For any who may object to “Glass Castle” — or any work of literature studied in class — alternative selections are offered.

“Admittedly, there are some difficult and sensitive passages in the “Glass Castle”, but teachers do not reference these in class nor are they read out loud in class or part of the class discussion,” Grunewald said.

For the district’s omplete reading list go to https//edmondschools.net/district/de partment.

Teaching about Ted Bundy “We are not teaching about Ted Bundy in fourth grade,” Grunewald said.

A fourth-grade class was learning about the Bill of Rights.

“They reached the Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. The

Information on election filing The Board of Education of Edmond Public Schools hereby announces that statutorily qualified individuals interested in running as a candidate for the #5 and #2 seats on the Edmond Board of Education may file to run as a candidate for the seats at the Oklahoma County Election Board, 4201 N. Lincoln Boulevard, OKC, OK from 8 a.m. to close of business December 6-8, 2021.

The election is February 8, 2022, with run-off elections scheduled for April 5 if no candidate for either seat receives more than 50 percent of the vote.

The term of office for Seat No. 2 is five years. The term of office of Seat No. 5 is three years. Meredith Exline served two years of the five-

year term in District 5 before stepping down from the board. In November of 2021, Edmond parent Marcus Jones was appointed by the board to the vacant seat until the election. Jones says he plans to run for election to the seat.

To be eligible to be a member of the Board of Education a candidate must live in the district, be a registered voter in the district, have a high school diploma or equivalency, not be employed by the district, or have immediate family members employed by the district and have no any felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions involving embezzlement.

Detailed information about the boundaries for each election district can be found at www.edmond-

teacher explained that meant the government could not force someone to admit to or discuss a crime regardless of their guilt or innocence,” Grunewald said.

One student offered that Ted Bundy never confessed to being a murderer.

Another student agreed saying that her mom had watched a Ted Bundy show and she learned that as well.

Grunewald said, “The teacher replied, ‘Yes, the right to remain silent is a constitutional right all U.S. citizens have,’ and then she proceeded to redirect the conversation to the Sixth Amendment.”

School Board Members School board members do not receive a salary or any compensation for their service to the Edmond Public Schools, Grunewald said, and to ask for their resignation is not feasible.

“School board members were elected by the voters in their districts to serve,” Grunewald said, “Resigning would be a disservice to the majority of voters in their districts who elected them.”

Accusations that board members are Marxists were denounced by Grunewald.

“Regarding the assertion that our school board members are liberal Marxists, you do not know them,” Grunewald said. “They are serving and volunteering their time to make

sure our community has the best schools possible.

“School Board members have to look at a decision from multiple points of view before they vote on it.

They base their decision on what is best for students not on the loudest voice or the person who emails the most.”

ESSER Funds School board members receive no compensation, so no ESSER funds go toward school board members.

The superintendent’s salary also is not paid by ESSER funds.

“This would not be an approved expenditure,” Grunewald said.

All ESSER expenditures are reviewed and approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

“ESSER funds have requirements,” Grunewald said. “One requirement is that 20 percent must be spent toward learning loss and all funds must be spent toward preventing, preparing for, and responding to Covid.”

She added there are no requirements for quarantine, masks or vaccines tied to the receipt of the ESSER funds.

Grunewald said, “We are not receiving any extra funds because we are requiring masks.

“We did not require parents to sign the form to opt out of the mask requirement. If a parent sent us an email, we accepted that.”

Page 4 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Carel our downtown hero Just in case you have not noticed, Downtown Edmond is growing in a very good way. It is booming folks and many of you have been down here recently to enjoy events including the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival, Vibes, Heard on Hurd and many more.

Ray Hibbard There are also a number of events coming up for the holidays that you and your family will not want to miss.

It may seem that this is an overnight transformation, but all of these “new” projects have been in the works for over twenty years. The City of Edmond continues to offer help to private developers and businesses with improvements in our downtown. They have caring staff that do what they can to lift our downtown. Any economically successful town in this state is led by a thriving downtown area and Edmond is no exception.

I have acknowledged many times in this column the great leadership of the last 40 years that has brought our downtown and Edmond community to the growing town we are today including a fantastic and safe lifestyle we enjoy. I saw a lady speak at our Edmond City Council meeting the other day who moved here from the west coast. She picked Edmond from doing research on safe places to live. Now she is actively recruiting her friends to move here as well.

I just could not let the holiday activities in downtown Edmond proceed or the year come to a close without letting our readers know about an individual that operates a business here in downtown that is the peerless leader of the area. She will be mad at me for outing her as a champion for downtown Edmond and prefers to stay behind the scenes but that is just too bad. Folks need to know the catalyst for the development of our Edmond downtown area.

Stephanie Carel is the Executive Director of the Downtown Edmond Business Association (DEBA). At least, that is her night job. She owns a business here as well. It is Silver Leaf Gems located at 15 W Campbell Street which is just west of Broadway on Campbell. She and her family run an active business which would make it seem to me that she would not have time for her volunteer work here in downtown and throughout Edmond.

Stephanie Carel Carel would be the first to admit that she has a host of volunteers that make her work possible and that do more then she does to promote downtown Edmond. I will agree that she has help but Carel has the energy of an 18-year-old when it comes to helping fellow business owners. Much of her support comes from her husband, David Carel, and son, Clayton Carel, who are often found working on craft projects that she has produced. It truly warms my heart to see how her family falls right in behind her when she is on a mission. They support any project she takes on.

I know she appreciates the number of awards that she has earned but that is not why she does what she does for others. She has a kind heart, but she is a rare person that wants to see people and projects gain to their potential. It makes her happy. Many would stay right in their lane and be plenty busy working the business but not Carel. It is not her job to reach out and help others, but she just cannot help herself. She is one of those folks that believes a rising tide raises all boats.

It is something we need more of in the world today.

Her leadership has taken DEBA to new heights. Our social media presence is the best it has ever been,

decorations year-round but especially for the holidays are fantastic. She created the idea of DEBA businesses decorating scarecrows for the Halloween season. She is happy to help businesses in conflict work things out so that everybody wins. Carel has no ego and does not need to take credit for any project. She just wants it to be successful.

She is the chair of the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust, which hosts events like the Ghost Tours and keeps the 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse running. Carel received the DAR Community Service Award, and she has volunteered to help revitalize the Gower Memorial Cemetery, a historic black cemetery in the Edmond/Arcadia area. All of this is in addition to her work on behalf of downtown Edmond businesses.

Carel said of her community service: "My passion is my family and my community, and I strive to make Edmond a better place to live and visit. I have been volunteering for over 40 years, and community service is a true calling for myself and my family.”

This year’s theme for Downtown Edmond is a Candy Cane Christmas.

The kickoff to the season will be on Small Business Saturday, November 27th. If you appreciate all the fantastic happenings and changes to

downtown Edmond, the best thing you can do is stop by Carel’s shop.

We can all use new customers. Carel would suggest the best thing you can do is stop by any of the shops in downtown Edmond for holiday shopping and that is true but please include Silver Leaf Gems on your list.

My advice is to come hungry as well. The number of places for great food here in Edmond has grown so much in the last year. Do not just stay to Broadway either. I met a couple sizing up where to eat at First and Broadway. They asked my opinion and I suggested if they were not sure they might want to go to the Railyard to decide. They had no idea that just west on First street there were a bounty of choices at the Railyard. The went and stopped back by my office to thank me. It would seem there is an Empire Slice Pizza coming to downtown Edmond as well.

Here is a little history of downtown Edmond: Although people lived throughout what is now considered Edmond, its humble history began in 1887 when a railroad station was built in what is now referred to as Downtown Edmond.

Tracks for the Santa Fe Railroad were laid through Oklahoma and eventually at milepost 103, initially called Summit due its high elevation.

Summit eventually became the Edmond Station or Edmond Burdock and was a stop for food and a place for trains to get fuel, coal, and water.

After those tracks were laid down and the Station established the area began developing overnight in 1889 with the Oklahoma Land Run. “Broad Street” and “Two Street,” present day Broadway and Second Street, saw a growth from the 3 initial settlers, Mr., and Mrs. Steen and their 2-year-old son, to well over 100 by the end of the day…and the Downtown Edmond was born.

Within a short time, businesses, grocery stores, and other shops began sprouting up along the Santa Fe R.R. line. At first, Edmond was just a place to stop if you were riding the train, due to the available city dining.

Downtown Edmond and the surrounding City has since blossomed into a destination community supporting a local college, community activities and its own local commerce and manufacturing. It just gets better from here folks.

(Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com.)

Check out what’s inside!

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

---- Weekend calendar of events ........................................................Page 6.

---- Clark Jolley running for State Treasurer’s post ..............................Page 7.

---- Senior news ........................................................................Pages 8 & 9.

---- Jockeying for political posts ......................................................Page 10.

--- Elaine Warner’s trip to an enchanted Texas eatery ....................Page 12.

---- DAR dedication ..........................................................................Page 13.

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

---- George Gust reviews film ‘Red Notice’ ......................................Page 14.

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

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

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, Patty Miller, Rose Drebes, and George Gust.

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2021 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

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

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 5

Page 6 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

(The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department.

Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)

Nov. 1 Matthew Gregory Hatcher, 27, of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear.

Ryan Gene Tillman, 27 of Maud, Okla. Two counts possession of CDS, possess drug paraphernalia, false declaration to a pawn broken, two counts (misdemeanor value) receiving stolen property and burglary in the second degree.

Ethan Andrew Schrimsher, 32 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor first offense) domestic abuse/assault in the presence of a minor child.

Ralph Bernard Richey, 69 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC Nov. 2 Tanner Clayton Fisher, 32 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

Jennifer Joy Todd, 42 homeless. Trespassing.

Jason Ray Lucero, 46 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Nov. 3 Jorey Brooks Stockton, 37 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol and two counts of failure to appear.

Tommy Lauren Harmon, 38 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Jake Alan Cox, 35 of Oklahoma City. Possess drug paraphernalia, use firearm while committing a felony and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Michael Walter Johnson II, 52 of Edmond.

Shoplifting, petit larceny.

Ryan Lee Kirkpatrick, 43 of Guthrie. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and felony DUI/APC. Nov. 4 Kody Lee Tucker, 36 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Joshua Aaron Hume, 35 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Robert Lee Spencer, 59 of Oklahoma City.

Felony warrant.

Nov. 5 Jermaine Tyrone Dean, 39 homeless. Public intoxication.

John David Huston, 38 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Ashley Nicole Davis, 31 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Adriana Elizondo Burkhalter, 45 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Alfredo Richardo Dioniso-Jimmez, 38 of Oklahoma City. Child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Travis Don Horton, 27 homeless. Possession of marijuana and trespassing.

Jenna Rose Litherland, 35 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Dustin Lee Holiday, 27. of Crescent. (Misdemeanor value) receive stolen property, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS. Nov. 6 Cristobal Arenivar Calderon, 26 of Edmond. Pos-

sess drug paraphernalia, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property.

Mark Daniel Moore, 36 of Luther. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Morganne Esperanza McGinty, 24 of Edmond.

Possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Kristal Lynn Shirley, 38 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.

Kevin Brandon Baker, 39 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS. Jennifer Nicole Manning, 41 of Oklahoma City.

Misdemeanor warrant.

Jeremiah Gene Jacques, 39 of Guthrie. Unlawful carrying a weapon, possess drug paraphernalia, two counts possess CDS and misdemeanor warrant.

Jonathan Edward Milner, 43 of Oklahoma City.

No proof of insurance, driving while privilege has been canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and two counts of failure to appear.

Nov. 7 George Howard Threadgill III, 33 of Edmond.

Public intoxication and grand larceny.

Guy Wayne Wallace, 25 of Edmond. Two misdemeanor warrants and two felony warrants.

Brandon Matthew Michels, 18 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Caden Blake Williams, 20 of Edmond. Vandalism/molesting vehicles and public intoxication.

Michael Angelo Smith, 33 homeless. Disturb the peace and trespassing after being forbidden.

Cheryl Lynn Geiser, 46 of Oklahoma City. Possession of another's debit card, possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS. Brandy Patrick Rocky, 37 homeless. Petit larceny and non-assault resisting officer.

Patrick John Jantz, 53 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Weekend Calendar of Events Nov. 18-21 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

What’s Happening This Weekend Nov 18-21 ---- In the Gallery: Behnaz Sohrabian ---- VIRTUAL:: Edmond’s African American History ---- ‘Women’s Rights Are Human Rights’ ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Safari Lights ---- Barrell Futurities of America World Championship ---- Paralympic and Olympic Celebration ---- Merry Marketplace and Edmond Electric’s Luminance Kick Off ---- Edmond Electric’s Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll ---- Edmond Turkey Trot ---- Still-Life Drawing in New Beginnings: An American Story of Romantics and Modernists in the West ---- Signature Tour ---- The Polar Express ---- Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” ---- Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival ---- Downtown in December ---- The Santa Market ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- Holiday in the Park ---- Holiday Extravaganza ---- Luminance: Merry Market Place ---- Oklahoma City Oddities & Curiosities Expo ---- OKC Philharmonic presents: Francaise & Ruski

The Polar Express Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum Extra Info: through Fri, Dec 31; okcthepolarexpressride.com Lyric Theatre presents: “A Christmas Carol” Location: Harn Homestead Extra Info: Wed, Nov 17 – Thu, Dec 23; times vary by date; lyrictheatreokc.com

Families having fun at a past Luminance event at Mitch Park.

Location: Edmond Railyard Extra Info: Fri, Nov 19; Free; 4 – 6 p.m.; edmondrailyard.com

Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival Location: 3rd Base Plaza, Bricktown, OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 18; 5 p.m.; downtownindecembrer.com Downtown in December Location: Downtown, Oklahoma City Extra Info: Thu, Nov 18 – Sun, Jan 30; downtownindecembrer.com

Merry Marketplace and Edmond Electric’s Luminance Kick Off Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 20; 4 – 8 p.m.; edmondlights.com

The Santa Market Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Extra Info: Fri, Nov 19 – Sat, Nov 20; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; sites.google.com

Edmond Electric’s Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 21 – Sun, Jan 2; Free; 5 – 10 p.m.; edmondlights.com

Devon Ice Rink Location: 113 S Robinson Ave, OKC Extra Info: Fri, Nov 19 – Sun, Jan 30; hours vary; downtownindecembrer.com

Edmond Turkey Trot Location: Downtown Community Center Extra Info: Thu, Nov 25; $0 ---- $26; 8 a.m.; edmondturkeytrot.com

Holiday in the Park Location: Frontier City Theme Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 20 – Sun, Jan 2; times vary; sixflags.com

Still-Life Drawing in New Beginnings: An American Story of Romantics and Modernists in the West Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Thu, Nov 18– Sun, Nov 21; 10 a.m. ---5 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Holiday Extravaganza Location: Silver Leaf Gems, 1030 S Broadway, Edmond, OK Extra Info: Sat, Nov 20; 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; silverleafgems.com

Extra Information In the Gallery: Behnaz Sohrabian Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: Free; featuring the art of Behnaz Sohrabian; edmondfinearts.com VIRTUAL: Edmond’s African American History Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum Extra Info: through Fri, Dec 31; edmondhistory.org ‘Women’s Rights Are Human Rights’ Location: University of Central Oklahoma – Melton Gallery Extra Info: Free; Display through Nov 18; Thu, Nov 18; closing reception; 5 – 7:30 p.m.; calendar.uco.edu Edmond Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Fri, Nov 12 – Mon, Jan 3; $10 ---- $14; edmondicerink.com Barrell Futurities of America World Championship Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: Sat, Nov 13 – Sat Nov 20; bfaworld.com/shows Paralympic and Olympic Celebration

Read the West Book Club – Death Comes for the Archbishop Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sun, Nov 21; 1 – 2:15 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org Safari Lights Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden Extra Info: through Sun, Jan 9; 5:30 – 11 p.m.; okczoo.org Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Sat, Nov 20 & Sun, Nov 21; 1 ---- 2

Luminance: Merry Market Place Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 20; 4 – 8 p.m.; edmondlights.com Oklahoma City Oddities & Curiosities Expo Location: Oklahoma City Convention Center Extra Info: Sat, Nov 20; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; odditiesandcuriositiesexpo.com OKC Philharmonic presents: Francaise & Ruski Location: Civic Center Music Hall Extra Info: Sat, Nov 20; begins at 8 p.m.; okcphil.org

Please submit items for publication to Melinda Infante at infante318@cox.net

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 7

Edmond’s Clark Jolley to seek Treasurer job Recently, lifelong Oklahoman and longtime public servant Clark Jolley launched his campaign for State Treasurer by outlining his 10-point plan to propel the office forJolley ward. His straightforward approach demonstrates his experience and the values that he believes are exactly what Oklahomans have come to expect from the position.

“My experience as Appropriations Chairman, Secretary of Finance, and Chairman of the Tax Commission has uniquely prepared me to protect and safeguard taxpayers’ dollars,” stated Jolley.

Jolley’s experience includes serving as State Senator in a key leadership role as Senate Appropriations Chairman, overseeing and negotiating five state budgets, none of which raised taxes on Oklahoma families. In addition, Jolley served as Secretary of Finance, Administration, and Information Technology, where he successfully fo ught to protect the state’s bond rating from dropping during difficult economic times. Jolley recently left the Oklahoma Tax Commission where he had been appointed Chairman by Gov. Kevin Stitt. While at the Commission Jolley also served as the

Vice Chair of the Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System, where assets grew by $2.5 billion (a 25% increase in funding) during his tenure.

“Oklahoma’s State Treasurer should have the relevant experience to get to work on day one,” Jolley stated. “Based on my experience and conservative values, I have developed a 10-Point plan for moving our state finances forward.”

In addition to the traditional State Treasurer roles of improving the performance of investments and efficient management of the state’s Unclaimed Property Fund, Jolley’s 10point plan includes protecting the state’s financial systems from cyberattacks and fighting back against D.C. liberal agendas and the cancel culture.

“Unfortunately, not only are foreign adversaries aggressively trying to cyberattack our financial systems, but Washington, D.C. bureaucrats are attacking our conservative values by attempting to infiltrate personal financial accounts, and liberal activists are using the cancel culture to dictate the types of industries where states can invest,” Jolley stated in reference to recent events like the outrageous overreach of the IRS into any bank transaction which exceeds $600 and efforts by liberal groups to boycott Israel and fossil fuels as investment options.

Page 8 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Meet new friends, ha ave new advve entures at VillagesOK KC Remember the Split-T? Dual glasspacks on a 1955 Ford?

Drive-in theaters? The friendships and fun you’ll find at VillagesOKC is enhanced by the sheer enjoyment of others who immediately relate and remember with you. And the laughter, always the laughter from remembering!

VillagesOKC fills the gap of neighbors asking neighbors, “Do you know someone who can …?”or “ Who do you go estions to for …?” Favorite ques are “ Who do you know t would be of help?” and “If you were me, who would you reach out to?”

Did you grow up in a small town like many of us where the “meeting place” was a cafe or cof fee shop where ever yone gathered

to share stories and catch up on the local news?

VillagesOKC is the new “gathering place” where you meet new friends and have new adventures. VillagesOKC is a plan, not a place. It is a plan for connections which provide access to information, resources and most impor tantly trusted friendships.

Many star t their VillagesOKC membership with the Gathering Information for Transitions (GIFT) workshops. You may think you have ever ything ee “in writing,” but ou need workshops show you how much more information is impor tant to anyone who may have to fill in for you.

To learrn morre about ViillaaggeesOK V KC or to enrroll o in the GIFTT, call or text 405.990.6637 or email nffo o@villaggeesokc.orrgg. inf

Tips to evaluate their well-being

Visiting your parents this Thanksgiving holiday The holidays are all about spending time with loved ones. This could also be a great time to reconnect and check in on an aging parent or loved one who is living alone. It can be hard to tell how your senior parents are really doing at home when you don’t live near them. The thought of a parent aging can bring on feelings of anxiety for many adult children, but instead of letting these feelings of anxiety and stress overwhelm you this holiday season, create a plan.

Here are several warning signs to look out for: 1 Personal Hygiene: An early indicator that a parent or other senior loved one is struggling is their personal appearance. Have you noticed a change in their hygiene habits? Is their clothing appropriate for the time of day and season of the year?

Changes in this area can be signs an older adult is having trouble with personal care.

2 Depression: Along those same lines is a case of the blues that goes on for many months. Seniors who are isolated or live alone are at higher risk for depression. If the older adult in your family seems tired, uninterested in carrying on a conversation

or is sleeping a lot, it might be time to intervene. Make an appointment with their primary care physician.

3 Falls: Have they experienced any falls or near falls? Is your senior loved one struggling with balance problems or are they a little unsteady on their feet? Older homes may not be the safest environment for a senior who is experiencing mobility issues. Falls remain the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among seniors.

4 Socialization: Has an always involved and social older loved one withdrawn from favorite pastimes and organizations? It might be a sign they are having problems with transportation or that they are aware something is wrong but aren’t sure what it is.

5 Accidents: When a senior driver bumps their car into things like a curb or the garage door, it might not seem like a serious concern. But small accidents can indicate they may not be safe behind the wheel of a car any longer. Slower reflexes, problems with vision and hearing loss are just a few reasons why.

6 Home Maintenance and Housework: If your parent has always kept a tidy house, it is usually easy to spot

See Parents, Page 9

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 9

Seniors & community invited to drive through Thanksgiving meal

By Rose Drebes The Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner is back, but with a different format.

Organizer Gary Smith said that hundreds of volunteers will serve meals during a drive-through event on the east side of the University of Central Oklahoma’s Nigh University Center on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 25. The dinner was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Some 750 meals are set to be available and will include Thanksgiving favorites such as turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, gravy and pie. Citizens Bank has contributed 120 turkeys to help make everything possible.

The Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner began in 1981. It was prepared by Frank and Pat Par-

adise, members of First Presbyterian Church, for anyone who wished to join them for a Thanksgiving Day dinner.

“It was as much a gesture of love as it was convenience for they had a family of six children at that time and they felt surely a few more couldn’t be that difficult, besides it was their hope they could enjoy the company of their church family,” according to a letter written by Mike Laska in 2005 which is posted on the event’s Facebook page. “As it turned out, approximately 15 or 20 of us showed up for this dinner and all enjoyed it so much we resolved to do the same the next year. That next year, 1982 more than 50 people enjoyed food and fellowship for Thanksgiving Day.” The dinner continued to grow. First Presbyterian

Parents From Page 8 when there might be a problem. Is laundry piled up? Is the trash overflowing? A dirty house is not only a sign a loved one is struggling, but it can also present health and safety risks.

7 Finances: Is your senior family member safely managing their finances? There are a few ways to tell.

Are bills stacked up unopened on their desk? Another tip-off is calls from bill collectors. When an older adult is having trouble keeping their financial house in order, they may pay some bills twice while neglecting others.

8 Nutrition: When you visit your loved one this holiday season, look inside their refrigerator. Are they full of out-of-dated foods? Does your senior loved one’s diet seem to consist primarily of fast food? Poor nutrition can contribute to a variety of health conditions, as well as increase their risk for a fall.

9 Mismanaging Medication: Mistakes with medication are a leading

reason seniors end up in the ER every year. Some take too much medication and others forget to take it altogether.

That’s why medication management is one of the most utilized services in senior living communities.

If you notice more than one or two of these behaviors in a senior you love, it might be time to talk about making a move to a senior living community. These communities offer older adults a combination of safety and independence, in addition to a wide variety of life enrichment and wellness activities.

Unfortunately, most individuals don’t know the next steps to finding senior living as it can be overwhelming. Understanding the available care options will be extremely helpful in conversations you have with your parents. Contacting a Senior Living Placement Advisor is a wise option to evaluate senior living services.

Church next hosted the Thanksgiving meal and then St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, which had a large commercial kitchen, took the reins. As the popularity of the dinner increased, it was moved to UCO. In 2000, the Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner association was begun, Laska said. “We received our 501c identification from the IRS the following year and our standing as a nonprofit charitable organization became official,” he said.

This year, dinner can be picked up 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A long-time volunteer, Smith said he is excited that the dinner will return this year, albeit in a “new normal.”

“It’s fun,” he said. “I look forward to it.”

For more information, visit the Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner page on Facebook.

Page 10 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

2022 political rumblings

By Steve Gust There’s lots of jockeying around now for people who plan on seeking public office.

There will be a huge election next November.

Many state, federal Steve Gust and county offices will be on the ballot.

Last week Kevin Calvey announced he wants to run for District Attorney, replacing David Prater.

Hats off to Mr. Prater. It’s a really tough job and he’s handled it well.

Kevin would be a good replacement.

He’s a very educated guy. And I’m sure he’d be fair.

Hope he does well.

Then there’s Clark Jolley. He wants to be the new state treasurer. Please see the article on Page 7.

He was a state senator for Edmond and diid a good job. If elected, he’d replace Randy McDaniel. Don’t forget, before Randy, Ken Miller held the post.

Maybe we should move that office to Edmond.

It promises to be a very interesting election cycle this year. Nationally, I hope we don’t have to go through that ballot harvesting nonsense. Just doesn’t seem right to me.

Don’t forget also, there are two Edmond School board seats up for grabs this coming Feb. 8.

We having filing information on that, on Page 3.

----I think one of the best college football games I’ve seen in a long time was the Kansas win at Texas, 57 to 56.

I’m not a Horn fan, but I have no bitter animosity for them either. I’m a bit surprised they’re in a terrible slump now. Yet I admire how Kansas hung in the game and went for the win after the first overtime.

It was the Jayhawks’ first Big 12 road win in almost 5,000 days. And folks that stretches back to 2008 when George W. Bush was president.

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

Bringing safety to kids The state Legislature’s interim studies are ending as lawmakers prepare for the 2022 session. The studies showed lawmakers are focused on relating to children which could make Oklahoma safer for children. The Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy (OICA) applauds the number of youth-related hearings held.

OICA tracked almost 50 studies and participated in three as presenters. The most recent was conducted by Senator Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City. It was coordinated

by Lisa Rhoades, program manager for the Child Death Review Board.

Lawmakers examined various ways children

The cartoon has been published before

have died in Oklahoma over the past decade.

While these deaths can be described as “accidents,” most deaths which happen to young people are preventable with policy changes or increased awareness by adults.

The study examined five topics: safe sleep conditions, automobile fatalities, firearms discharges, drownings, and drug overdoses. The presenters on each of these topics did a fantastic job of conveying their primary issues and how simple changes could reduce the number of deaths.

James Craig with the Oklahoma Health Department noted babies sleeping on their backs is the safest position for

them. Firm sleep surfaces protect against suffocation, and children who breastfeed are less likely to suffer Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Room-sharing for infants can help parents be more attentive to the needs of the child in those first months.

Leslie Gamble with AAA spoke to an issue we at OICA have championed: Oklahoma does not have a seat belt requirement for young people ages 8 to 18. We are the only state in the nation without such a requirement. Further, Ms. Gamble pointed out another type of vehicle death where too many children die when left in hot cars.

Bill Brassard, Jr. from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) testified about child deaths by firearms being left unattended in the home. NSSF’s Project ChildSafe is one way families can protect curious youth in the home. Over the past decade, Project ChildSafe has distributed 38 million free safety kits with gun locks to help decrease unsecured firearm discharges. OICA is a proud partner in this endeavor. If you would like a free trigger lock, contact our office by emailing info@oica.org or calling (405) 236-5437.

Kathy Mendez, a cofounder of King Marlin Swim Club and a retired leader with USA Swimming, spoke on accidental drownings. Causes include unattended children around swimming pools, improper fencing to prevent access to pools, and the lack of swim lessons available to urban youth. Communities replacing community pools with splash pads, she said, is keeping kids from learning to swim.

We can’t afford Biden’s climate ideas

By US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) Last month President Biden flew on Air Force One to Scotland to gather with world leaders, give speeches, make promises, and declare that the US should lead the world on climate change. Here’s what they left out, the US is already leading the Lankford world in clean energy.

China and India are the largest carbon producers in the world. It’s not even close. China skipped the climate shindig in Scotland (as did Russia), and India told the conference they’ll start dealing with their carbon output in a few decades. President Biden’s new energy promises in Scotland will make our energy future even more expensive than our energy present, and they’ll push our electrical grid beyond its ability to produce reliable power.

We all remember winter storm “Uri” last Feb-

ruary when Oklahoma experienced a deep freeze that we’ll never forget. I recently held a Senate hearing on the lessons learned from that storm and how we can protect our electric grid in the future. One of the top lessons was the essential need for diverse and reliable energy sources.

Without multiple sources of power, you cannot meet the demand on the highest energy-use days of the year. If your power is over dependent on “intermittent” sources of energy like wind, solar, and hydroelectric, when it gets cold, icy, and cloudy you’ll be in trouble.

More than 45 percent of Oklahoma’s power comes from renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric, which are great sources of energy that we use them as much as possible, in fact Oklahoma uses renewable energy sources more than most other state. But, when the wind stops blowing (which does happen, even in Oklahoma) and the sun stops shining, you need “base” power that can always run. Power generation from natural gas, coal, or even nuclear is stable and reliable. While we don’t have nuclear power in Oklahoma, we do have some of the

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.

cleanest and newest natural gas and coal power plants in the country.

One of the other lessons from February’s storm was the need for protecting our natural gas delivery system and the importance of a consistent supply. When the ice froze our wind towers, we needed more natural gas, but the well heads weren’t prepared for the deep freeze so we had to switch to more coal for several days. If we didn’t have access to coal and natural gas power last winter, we would’ve had massive blackouts across Oklahoma for days at the worst possible moment.

Energy diversity is lifesaving.

All the talk about huge batteries to run our cities is nice, but there’s currently no battery at a scale or cost that’ll even get close to powering our communities. The current electric vehicle and high-capacity batteries also require minerals from China, which means we’d be completely dependent on communist China for our energy. That’s clearly not a good idea.

You should ask how much higher the price of electricity will be 14 years from now after all these new mandates. We’ve already seen skyrocketing prices for natural gas and oil this fall.

President Biden has cut off pipeline permits, blocked lease sales on federal lands, and pushed banks to stop loaning money to coal, oil, and gas companies. As our economy tries to bounce back from the crazy COVID year, limited energy production has led to higher prices.

I am not anti-environment. In fact, I believe we’re stewards of the planet God gave us. We should be responsible with that blessing. But, climate conferences that focus on unrealistic goals with real-world consequences for the people of Oklahoma don’t get me excited about Scotland.

They get me worrieds.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 11

Page 12 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

San Antonio eatery delivers top experience

By Elaine Warner It’s said, “An army travels on its stomach.” So do travel writers. In the past couple of weeks, I’ve visited a number of amazing eateries – so amazing that they deserve a whole colElaine umn rather than just a mention in a destination piece. I’m sharing so if you go to San Antonio, you won’t miss out.

Honesty requires me to tell you that, as a travel writer, I get special treatment. Sometimes my meals are “comped,’ sometimes I pay for them, but chefs often send out extra dishes for me to try. I will never write about something that I wouldn’t be willing to pay full price for – since that’s what you will probably have to do.

I had been to San Antonio several times before on press trips, so I already had some favorite spots but this time I was traveling with my family. We got to San Antonio about lunch time and I knew the best way to get into the S.A. frame of mind was a stop at El Mercado, the largest Mexican market in the U.S. People of Hispanic heritage make up a large portion of the city’s population – not surprising since the area, before becoming Texas, was first part of Spanish territory, then Mexico. El Mercado takes it over the top – but beneath the glitzy tourist trappings is an exciting, authentic experience.

An 80-year-old restaurant, Mi Tierra Café y Panaderia, is the epitome of that experience. They serve good TexMex food in a fiesta atmosphere. Expect to stand in line to get a table in the spacious restaurant, but you won’t be bored. The line takes you past the bakery counter – case after case of colorful creations.

Each room is lavishly decorated; mariachis stroll through the restaurant and – for a price – will serenade you personally. One room features a multiwall mural depicting a crowd of people who have been connected with or who influenced the growth of San Antonio – from Pancho Villa to Eva Longoria. The ambiance overshadows the food – but sit back and enjoy it all and you won’t be disappointed. I will never visit San Antonio without including a

ELAINE WARNER

Begun over 30 years ago, the mural ‘American Dream’ features portraits of over 100 people

stop here.

My second old-favorite eatery is one introduced to me by my grain-dealer dad years ago. The Guenther House sits on the grounds of the giant Pioneer Flour Mill founded in 1859 by Carl Guenther, a German immigrant, master miller and businessman.

Breakfast, brunch or lunch can be a carb-fest of gastronomic goodies created with Pioneer products.

The restaurant utilizes an arbor for outdoor dining and, in the house, the original, redwood-paneled dining room and a sunny 1917 add-on with art glass windows and grain-themed decorative elements. A small museum upstairs and a peek at the original parlor are an added treat.

I ordered the 1851 Breakfast Platter with a fluffy Pioneer biscuit, a side of Pioneer’s Country Gravy with crumbled sausage, breakfast potatoes, two eggs, a sausage patty and bacon. It was way more than I could eat – but sometimes you have to take one for the team.

Daughter Zoe, our vegetarian, had breakfast wraps – flour tortillas (White Wing flour, also made in the mill) filled with eggs and cheese and fruit. It was our first taste of moon drop grapes –

A traditional breakfast at Guenther House includes a biscuit and gravy made with Pioneer mixes.

they look like little eggplants. They were so good, we had to make a stop at an H.E.B. grocery to buy some for the trip home.

Jack had a Southern Sweet Cream Belgian Waffle topped with strawberries – he passed on the whipped cream – and bacon.

Then the waitress brought out an unordered treat – a cinnamon roll. Not just any cinnamon roll – the ones at Guenther House weigh about a pound and a half. We were full and asked for a to-go box. The roll was so big, we had to cut it in half to fit it in a large box! Needless to say, we skipped lunch that day.

We stayed at a wonderful hotel in San Antonio – the Valencia Riverwalk.

Conveniently located on a quiet stretch of the famous Riverwalk, we were approximately equidistant from the Mercado on the west side of downtown and the Alamo on the east.

Our stay had been arranged by the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau and our itinerary called for breakfast at La Panaderia, less than two blocks walk from our hotel.

We were told to get there early – good advice. The business is owned by two brothers, Jose and David Cáceres, who learned to bake from their mother, who baked breads and sold them on the streets of Mexico City.

They’ve taken the tradition to a whole new level, producing over a dozen sweet creations and savories. The brothers use fresh, stone-milled flour, rest their doughs 48 hours, use European butter and apply French techniques. The menu also includes a variety of Benedicts and choices for lighter meals.

This was one of the places where we were brought half-orders of four different entrees – all great – and sent home with a box of pastries. If our own opinion of the café’s excellence

wasn’t enough, when we left at 8:30, the line was out the door and down the block.

Another outstanding outing involved a French restaurant, Brasserie Mon Chou Chou, in the Pearl District, an area replete with eating options. Our entrée (Jack and I split a pastry-topped lobster bisque and pan-seared sea scallops), was excellent. The highlights were two dishes we’d never tried before. Our server heated raclette cheese and scraped the warm, gooey cheese onto a baguette, accompanied by small, briny cornichons. Totally nom!

The finale for our feast was Floating Island – a soft custard topped with clouds of meringue. Oh, yeah, I paid for all this fun at Weight Watchers.

The beautiful thing about Weight Watchers is expeditions like this one are just brief detours on a life-time journey. At home, good choices and portion control got me back on track – a good thing, since I leave on another trip in a few days!

La Panaderia manager, Rey Gutierrez brings out half-orders of two variations on eggs benedict – a spicy one with ranchero beans on the side and a lighter version with veggies and egg whites.

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 13

ERIECH TAPIA

Guest speakers with Cordelia Steen Chapter officers, L to R: Vice Regent Tammy Ross; DAR State Historian Holly Frazier; Chairman of the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust Stephanie Carel; Dr. Elizabeth Bass, Director of Publications, Oklahoma Historical Society; Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis; Historian Kim-

DAR Historical Marker added

Marker dedicated to Pioneer Family Cordelia Steen Chapter, NSDAR, named for the first female pioneer of Edmond, held a dedication ceremony for a DAR historical marker in honor of John, Cordelia and Charles Steen, the first pioneer family of Edmond, at the Steen family’s burial site at Gracelawn Cemetery in Edmond. The ceremony, held recently, was the chapter’s project for the annual National Day of Service, to commemorate the founding of the society in October 1890.

Approval for a DAR historical marker is a rigorous process requiring application to the society’s National Historian General. References for each fact in the marker, along with pictures and a map of the proposed site were submitted, along with permissions from the family and the city, which owns Gracelawn Cemetery. Verification of the facts in the marker by at least two independent experts was also required, and the chapter is grateful to Nicole Willard, Assistant Director of the Max Chambers Library at the University of Central Oklahoma and Chair of the Oklahoma State Archives and Records Commission; Amy Stephens, Executive Director of the Edmond Historical Society

and Museum; and Stephanie Carel, Chairman of the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust.

The Sons of the American Revolution Oklahoma City Chapter color guard members Joe Sieber, Marty Samwel, and Gary Jensen presented the colors at the ceremony.

Chapter Regent Andrea Aven conducted the event, with Vice Regent Tammy Ross, Chaplain Mary Poulain, Historian Kimberly Lowery, and prospective member Karen Moseley participating. Guest speakers were DAR State First Vice Regent Nancy Lisle; Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis; DAR State Historian Holly Frazier; Stephanie Carel, Chairman of the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust; and Dr. Elizabeth Bass, Director of Publications, Oklahoma Historical Society.

The wording of the DAR historical marker: In honor of John, Cordelia, and Charles Steen, first pioneer family of Edmond, Oklahoma John Steen arrived at Mile Marker 103 in December 1886, as a water superintendent for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway.

He was assigned to oversee the construction of a

128-feet deep by 30feet diameter well that would serve the new coaling and watering station for steam engines.

The station, first known as Mile Marker 103 and then Summit, was renamed Edmond in March 1887. In November of that year, John’s wife Cordelia and their son Charles joined him.

The family’s arrival preceded the early settlers who came to the area in the Oklahoma Land Run of April 22, 1889, and formally established the Town of Edmond.

We honor the Steen family and their invaluable contributions to the City of Edmond.

Marker placed by Cordelia Steen Chapter, NSDAR, October 23, 2021 The marker for the Steen family is the first DAR historical marker to be placed in Edmond, and the 100th DAR historical marker placed in the state. The first marker was dedicated in 1916 by the DAR Kilihoti Chapter of McAlester, as a tribute the Revolutionary War ancestors of the chapter members.

Founded in 1890, DAR is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism,

Vice Regent Tammy Ross and Regent Andrea Aven, Cordelia Steen Chapter, NSDAR.

PHOTO/ ERIECH TAPIA

preserving American history, and securing America's future through better education for children. With more than 190,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world's largest and most active service organizations. Any woman 18 years or older-regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership.

Page 14 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of ‘Red Notice’

New release not super but not bad either

By George Gust “When an Interpol issues a “Red Notice”-the highest-level warrant- to hunt and capture the world's greatest art thief "The Bishop" (Gal Gadot) goes out, the FBI's top profiler John Hartley (Dwayne Johnson) is on the case.

His global pursuit finds him smack dab in the middle of a daring heist where he's forced to partner with the world's greatest art thief Nolan Booth (Ryan Reynolds).

“Red Notice” is a globetrotting heist adventure for the filmed in and for the Covid era. Netflix with all their spoils from the ubiquity of their subscribers and three mega movie stars at the height of their power came together during these difficult times™ to make a throwback star led blockbuster movie, with one hand tied behind their back. Filmed during the height of the pandemic, “Red Notice” is a globetrotting adventure that is lacking in physical locations but abundant in obvious green screen settings.

“Red Notice” feels like a movie checking off a list of algorithmically generated items that Netflix subscribers want to see from this kind of adventure movie. This film doesn’t want to take any

risks or try to say anything new; it only wants to deliver a safe action/adventure with movie stars people love. In that respect “Red Notice” does a serviceable job.

Reynolds and Johnson have a good rapport throughout with both playing a riff off their movie star persona. Reynolds delivers the trademarked too cool for school self-aware charm that you’ve come to expect from the “Deadpool” movies. Johnson in response to Reynolds is playing the epitome of his persona of the hardest working man who’s the best at his job, which is fun, but oh so familiar. And added to the mix of

machismo of Johnson and Reynolds, Gadot is a commanding screen presence that fits well in this adventurous underworld of art thieves and Interpol agents.

Overall, “Red Notice” is not the star-studded event of the year that Netflix would want you to see it as, but it does deliver a generically fun action-adventure movie with likeable and recognizable movie stars. This film lives in the same neighborhood as a cheesy adventure film like “National Treasure” instead of the upscale neighborhood of Mission Impossible, Indiana Jones, or James Bond, where there’s enough entertainment to get you through an open Saturday afternoon, but nothing too terribly memorable.

“Red Notice” is rated PG-13 for violence and action, some sexual references and strong language. Now available in theaters and with a Netflix subscription.

2.8out of 5 stars.

You can reach George Gust to comment at gust.george@gmail.com,

PHOTO PROVIDED

A cavalcade of movie stars highlight Netflix's generic, but entertaining action/adventure ‘Red Notice.’

Lyric helps raise funds for area food bank Answers appearing on Page 19

The Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma will once again raise money for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma during its run of "A Christmas Carol.” For the past 10 years, "A Christmas Carol" audiences have contributed nearly $200,000 to the Regional Food Bank.

For the second year, the Nov. 17 through Dec. 23 performances will be held outdoors at the historic Harn Homestead, 1721 N. Lincoln in Oklahoma City. Harn Homestead will be reimagined as the Victorian era setting for the 75-minute performance as audiences will be guided from scene to scene at the homestead.

"Lyric Theatre's production of "A Christmas Carol" is one of the best holiday traditions in the metro," said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. "We are so grateful to Lyric Theatre and their patrons, whose generosity has made a real impact in the fight against hunger in Oklahoma."

The production is staged in the open air to allow audiences to social distance. Each performance is limited to 200 guests.

Tickets for “A Christmas Carol” are available at LyricTheatreOKC.org or by calling Lyric’s box office at 405-524-9312.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Languages ACROSS 1. Lacking imagination 6. Afflict 9. Bob of boxing world 13. From then on 14. Ornamental pond dweller 15. Not asleep 16. Cuzco valley people 17. Overnight lodging 18. 5th of 7 canonical hours 19. *Brothers Grimm language 21. *Language considered to have most words 23. Man's tasseled hat 24. Cross to bear 25. Retriever's word, for short 28. Person, place or thing 30. Like a bow or a racket 35. Pale ____ beverage, pl.

37. It has multiple limbs 39. Mister in Madrid 40. Spare in a trunk 41. Manuscript changes 43. Romantic occurrence 44. Letter-shaped girder 46. Russian mountain range 47. Curved molding 48. HNO3 acid 50. Egyptian goddess of fertility 52. Rub the wrong way 53. CISC alternative 55. Cry of horror, in comics 57. *First language spoken in outer space 61. *Once considered the language of diplomacy 64. Like old cracker 65. What acrimony and acrobat have in common 67. Get ready to drive, on a golf course 69. It's often rewarded with a medal in military 70. Sturgeon yield 71. Backyards separator?

72. "That was close!"

73. "C'____ la vie!"

74. "Silas Marner" novelist DOWN 1. Pressure unit 2. A year in a trunk 3. It's sometimes enough 4. Cozy accessory 5. Unquestioning ones 6. Similar 7. H+, e.g.

8. Flax-derived fabric 9. Deserter's acronym 10. Indian princess 11. Luau instrument, pl.

12. Mosquito net, e.g.

15. Teenagers' emotions 20. Nitrogen, in the olden days 22. *Greek N, pl.

24. Relating to dreams 25. *"Veni, vidi, vici" language 26. "My wife can vouch for me", e.g.

27. Prince's "Raspberry ____"

29. *Pakistani language 31. Make over 32. Eel in a sushi restaurant 33. Annotator 34. *Hellenic language 36. Popular way to cook tuna 38. *Greek H, pl.

42. More like a fox 45. Quaggier 49. Langley, VA org.

51. Be full of anger 54. Rabbit trap 56. Land on patellas 57. Invitation acronym 58. One of Four Corners states 59. Price reduction 60. Snail-like 61. Guitar part 62. Ghana monetary unit 63. Designer Boss 66. Trigonometry abbr.

68. Favorite one

Answers are on Page 19

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 15

For intellectual & developmentally disabled

Wings announces plans for $18 million expansion Nearly 200 parents, community leaders, volunteers and philanthropists gathered for a Land Reveal into Oklahoma’s first privately-funded nonprofit residential community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities that will become the future campus of Wings.

Wings is an Oklahoma-City based nonprofit that exists to enhance the lives of adults with developmental disabilities through social, vocational and residential programs guided by principles of the Bible.

The groundbreaking event, held at the future site’s home 1315 East Wilshire near Kelly and Wilshire in Oklahoma City drew supporters, faith leaders, team members, government officials and other community partners to dedicate and pray over the site.

“Now is our time to take that leap of faith and realize the full vision of our founders,” said Greg Price, campaign chairman and Wings parent. “My experience has been that my son, James, cannot have a full, vibrant life without a community of like-minded people.

Today, we begin the journey to build a permanent community providing a thriving space for these adults.”

The 75-acre campus will be developed in phases with the first phase totaling $18 million and delivering eight residential units. The project will be funded entirely by philanthropy. The expansion also includes a chapel, community dining commons and extensive grounds - with a plan for additional Ranch Homes and a gymnatorium.

“Our dream started with a gift of land,” said Wings Executive Director Cheri Weaver.

“The site is Wings’ future; the forever home for residents, and those seeking friendship through community.

We believe there is purpose and lifelong growth both in numbers and independence. The time is now to move Wings toward its founders’ vision. The

organization is 17 years old as are its members and parents. The moment is prime to transition to this beautiful 75acres we have acquired through a most generous donation from Greg and Sandy Olson.”

Speakers included Shannon Schultheis, Wings Vice Chair. The event, emceed by Kelly Ogle and Storme Jones from News Channel 9, also drew Councilwoman Nikki Nice and a diverse community of passionate citizens seeking a vibrant community for Oklahoma’s adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Shannon Schultheis, Board Vice Chair stated her belief in the mission, “Some of us saw love-in-action at Wings, and we were instantly drawn in. I believe that Oklahoma City, and the entire state of Oklahoma, will benefit from what we are doing here. We are unique and we are needed. And when all Oklahoma citizens are seen, heard and thriving, our community is better.”

Schultheis says Wings’ existence is a double investment for the city.

She stated that Oklahomans should view this development as double investment in vocational jobs and nonprofit partnerships. As part of Wings’ Day Program, members can choose two programs that benefit the community outside of Wings. Wings Serves gets members in the volunteer spirit by assembling hygiene and school supply kits that benefit other local nonprofits like Palomar and Infant Crisis Services.

Spreading Our Wings gets members out in the community doing volunteer work at other local nonprofits - like BritVil Food Pantry or Fostering Sweet Dreams benefitting 46 nonprofit partners in our community.

The 17-year-old nonprofit has outgrown its original and current leased facility, which is a 7,500 square foot building located in southwest Edmond near Oklahoma Christian University.

Page 16 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Train your legs to achieve your true maximum health

Local news?

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

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

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

By Brian Attebery If you watch many women in the gym workout, you will see a common theme. Women love to work their legs out. Society and culture have Attebery shown that great legs are a hallmark for a fit lady.

No doubt it is important to work your legs out. It is important to work all of your various body parts with a variety of angles. Men, you need to work your legs out too. Leg strength and health play a major role in fitness and a long-healthy life. How do we approach leg training?

When you start training with weights, you should always start with a low volume approach and work the muscles 2-3 non-consecutive days in a row.

A typical routine would be 3 sets of 8-12 repetitions per exercise 3 days per week. Understand, you need to be intentional about how many exercises you do for the muscles you are targeting. For legs, we need to look at the various aspects of legs and how different exercises address your needs for a wellrounded routine.

The front of the legs that most of us focus on are the quadriceps.

They are the four muscles in the front of the thigh that are responsible for straightening your knees.

Getting up out of a chair, climbing stairs and walking all require strong quads. Leg presses, step ups and squats are great examples of exercises that primarily benefit the quadriceps.

If you are a beginner, you should only focus on one primary exercise for quads and as you progress, you can consider adding more exercises but your frequency of workouts for that muscle should decrease so you have time to recover from the higher load on the muscles.

For example, if you start out doing squats for your primary quad movement three days per week, if you add in leg presses and step ups,

then you need to only workout your legs 1-2 days per week to allow proper recovery between workouts.

The backside of the thighs are the hamstrings. They are primarily responsible for bending of the knee along with hip extension as they assist your glutes (rear-end) in that movement. Strong hamstrings are vital in good knee health as they are a stabilizer and “shock absorber” when you descend into a squat position. Leg curls and various movements like Romanian Deadlifts or hip bridges are great for hamstrings as well.

You can’t have a pair of great legs without looking at the lower legs.

Calves are primarily responsible for elevating your heels off the ground known as “plantar flexion.” You have two separate calf muscles and different exercises emphasis one more than another. Seated calf raises isolate the soleus calf that is closer to the bone versus various movements like standing calf raises and body weight calf raises focus more pressure on the gastrocnemius muscles that are on top of the soleus calf muscle. The kneeing being bent versus straight is what determines the emphasis of the particular calf muscle that is emphasized.

We can’t discuss lower body training without discussing your glutes or rear end.

Squats, steps and lunges not only work the glutes but also the quads we discussed previously. These exercises are known as “compound exercises” since they work more than one muscle out. There are various isolation movements that primarily focus on the glutes too. Hip bridges and various glute machines will help that!

Legs are vital to have movement in life and keep your body active and strong. Approach your leg training like your life depends on it. Your life truly does!

(Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 17

AAA: Travel getting back to normal Airports and roads may seem jam-packed this year as AAA predicts 53.4 million people nationwide to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday, up 13% from 2020. This brings travel volumes within 5% of pre-pandemic levels in 2019, with air travel almost completely recovering from its dramatic fall during the pandemic, up 80% over last year. As restrictions continue to lift and consumer confidence builds, AAA urges travelers to be proactive when making their travel plans this holiday season.

“This Thanksgiving, travel will look a lot different than last year,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president, AAA Travel. “Now that the borders are open and new health and safety guidelines are in place, travel is once again high on the list for Americans who are ready to reunite with their loved ones for the holiday.”

With 6.4 million more people traveling this Thanksgiving coupled with the recent opening of

the U.S. borders to fully vaccinated international travelers — people should prepare for roads and airports to be noticeably more crowded.

“International travel re-opening will allow people to reconnect with friends and family and explore new places, while also giving a much-needed boost to the economy,” continued Twidale. “But it also means airports will be busier than we’ve seen, so travelers must plan for longer lines and extra time for TSA checks.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released its recommendations for holiday gatherings and related travel, saying that the best way to minimize COVID-19 risk is to get vaccinated if you’re eligible. However, everyone’s situation is unique and therefore, AAA urges anyone considering gathering or traveling for Thanksgiving to consult CDC guidance before finalizing holiday plans.

This year’s forecast marks the highest single-year increase in Thanksgiving travelers since 2005, bringing travel volumes close to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Despite gas costing over a dollar more per gallon than this time last year, 90% of people plan to travel by car as their preferred mode of travel. Although the car is still the most popular choice for travelers, a greater share will opt to travel by air and other modes such as bus, train or cruise this year. Whether you plan to do so by car or plane, it’s important to know how to navigate the new travel landscape to avoid unnecessary stress and challenges on the way to your Thanksgiving destination.

Be Proactive. Book flights, car rentals, accommodations and other activities as early as possible.

Prices are not going down and are still somewhat impacted by the limited capacity of flights and staffing challenges faced by many industries.

Marking five years Teera Chiropractic & Acupuncture recently held a ribbon cutting with the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate their fifth anniversary at 3209 S. Broadway, Ste. 217 in Edmond.

Dr. Patel and Teera Chiropractic believe in the body’s natural ability to heal itself. The nervous system governs everything the body does, from movements to thoughts. Their mission is to provide drugless healing art to the community so that they may not survive or live but thrive!

They are dedicated to inspiring health and empowering families. They focus on gentle Chiropractic and Acupuncture techniques that are safe for all ages.

Teera Chiropractic & Acupuncture prides itself in providing great quality service to families across the Edmond/Oklahoma City metro.

For more information, visit

PHOTO PROVIDED

Celebrating with staff and chamber personnel at 3209 S. Broadway.

Thirty years in business

MIDCON marks milestone When Randy Allen created MIDCON Data Services in 1991, he could not have imagined what the small start-up would become three decades later.

MIDCON began by managing complex oil and gas seismic data and has expanded to a full-service data management and records storage company.

MIDCON provides record management and storage from inception to destruction.

MIDCON offers off-site, secure, climate-controlled storage for physical documents and “Air Gap” solutions like magnetic media and operates three data centers for hybrid cloud solutions in Oklahoma City, Edmond and Tulsa. The company also provides scanning, imaging, and document destruction services.

MIDCON’s customers range from small, local businesses to the largest international corporations, but its core focus of customizable solutions and quality customer service have not changed since its first days.

To celebrate this milestone, MIDCON is partnering with AARP Oklahoma to host a free community shred event from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4. A shredding truck will be available to destroy sensitive and personal documents in MIDCON’s parking lot, 401 W 33rd St in Edmond.

Allen recognizes the importance of contributing to the community, and MIDCON has a long history of civic engagement.

“We are proud of the extensive history and partnership between the Chamber and MIDCON,” said Sherry Jordan, Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce CEO. “It is a communityminded organization that has contributed to the growth and quality of life in Edmond. We look forward to many more years of its innovative and resilient business model.”

Randy Allen MIDCON has been an Edmond Chamber member since 1995 and boasts a record number of former Chamber Chairmen of the Board including Allen, Greg Blakely, Darren Helm and Carl Tipton. Additionally, Allen was 2004 Edmond Chamber Citizen of the Year.

“Randy was intrigued by the concept of aggregating like-minded firms into a geographic area in order to share resources, learn from each other, develop supply chains, and build a solid job base to support and exceptional quality of life for his current and future employees,” said Steve Kreidler, former director of the Edmond Economic Development Authority. “Little could I have known back then what an impact that Randy and MIDCON would make on Edmond and the entire state. Randy became the epitome of civil leadership, an employer of choice and the best cheerleader for Edmond’s progress as a major city.”

To learn more, midcondata.com.

Page 18 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Bobeck out as UCO coach wavered. He is and will conThe University of Central tinue to be a Broncho and we Oklahoma announced Sunday wish him, his wife Keely and that head football coach Nick the family nothing but the Bobeck resigned from his pobest." sition.

Bobeck first arrived on The decision comes followcampus as a freshman in ing Central's completion of 1999. He played fullback for the 2021 season. the Bronchos that fall, and "You get into coaching for Bobeck the next three seasons after the X's and O's and you fall that. He earned First Team Allin love with the people and Lone Star Conference honors followthat's the hardest part of this," ing his senior year in 2002.

Bobeck said. "I've had some great Bobeck stayed at UCO after his kids that have come through this proplaying days to begin his coaching cagram. I've enjoyed my time here. I reer while earning his second degree love this university. But I believe this from the institution. is the best decision for me and my He was a graduate assistant coach family."

Bobeck was hired as the 13th head for three seasons, while the Bronchos went 20-12 and earned a trip to the football coach at Central Oklahoma 2003 NCAA Division II playoffs. on Jan. 4, 2012 and tasked to return Bobeck made a stop at Texas A&M to his alma mater and lead the Bronbefore moving to Navarro Junior Colchos. lege. There, he won a national chamHe ends his run at Central with a pionship and posted a 42-5 record in 47-54 record.

"We're grateful to Nick for 17 years four years. He was inducted into the school's athletics Hall of Fame earlier of contributions to Central as a this fall. player, assistant coach and head Bobeck returned to Edmond and coach," UCO Director of Athletics Stan Wagnon said. "His character and took over the program he once played for in early 2012. loyalty to this institution has never

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Hi and Lois

Blondie

Shoe

Hägar the Horrible

Zits

Edmond Life & Leisure • November 18, 2021 • Page 19

Old-Fashioned Holiday Hop to be held Dec. 4 It’s an Old-Fashioned Holiday Hop! Dec 4th from 1 to 4 p.m. “Hop” to three nearby historical places in Edmond for FREE with real-bearded Santa photos, crafts, cocoa and the opportunity to see a live model train Christmas display by the Toy Train Operating Society.

Historical ornaments are on display as part of the “Trimming the Tree” exhibit.

Locations and activities include: •Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S. Boulevard): Toy train demonstration, “Trimming the Tree” ornament exhibit, and children’s activities

•1889 Territorial Schoolhouse (124 E. 2nd St): Schoolhouse tour, historical games and crafts •Rodkey Victorian House (410 S. Littler): Realbearded Santa photos on the porch, hot cocoa and Christmas card scavenger hunt These three locations are within a few blocks of each other near Downtown Edmond. Also, oldfashioned and homemade presents are available in the museum gift shop for purchase.

Attendees are invited to save 10% on all gift shop purchases, including holiday and handmade gifts.

Holiday Hop is hosted by the Edmond Historical Preservation Trust and the Edmond Historical Society & Museum.

--Further Information: Edmond Historical Society & Museum hours are 10 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4:30 Tuesday – Friday and 1 to 4 most Saturdays. Admission is free.

Masks are requested. More information can be found on the museum website at www.edmondhistory.org or by calling 405-340-0078. Located at 431 S. Boulevard, Edmond..

Puzzles appear on Page 14

&K & KDQQLQJ 8QLWDULDQ 8QLYHUV UVDOLVW &KXUFK We͛re BACK! We ͛re B ACK! Church!

JJoin oin us at at Chu rch!

Sundays Sundays at 11 11:am :am

: WK 6WUHHW³(GPRQG 2. : WK 6WUHHW³(GPRQG 2.

ChanningUUC.org ChanningUUC.org ; 'ç® ½®Ä Ý ÖÖ½ùͿ ; 'ç® ½®Ä Ý ÖÖ½ùͿ mail he hello@channinguuc.org llo@channinguuc.org for for invite invite Al so on Zoom: Zoom: eemail Also

:H DUH D :HOFRPLQJ )UHH 7KLQNLQJ &RQJUHJDWLRQ :H DUH D :HOFRPLQJ )UHH 7KLQNLQJ &RQJUHJDWLRQ

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

Please check with your house of worship for more information.

Page 20 • November 18, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure