Edmond Life and Leisure - February 2, 2023

In This Issue

FOUR SEASONS

Race to benefit Wings Group helps developmentally disabled

The Redbud Classic, Oklahoma City’s esteemed running and cycling tradition, will celebrate its 40th year of bringing fun, fitness and philanthropy to the community in 2023. Registration is now open for all Redbud events set for the weekend of Saturday, April 15, and Sunday, April 16.

Each year, the Redbud Foundation Board of Directors selects an Oklahoma City nonprofit organization with whom to partner and serve as the beneficiary of event proceeds. Annually, multiple agencies apply to the Redbud Classic as potential beneficiaries. Wings Special Needs Community (Wings), a nonprofit organization with a mission to enhance the lives of adults with developmental disabilities through social, vocational and residential programs, was selected to serve as the 2023 beneficiary.

“As we gear up for race season, we want people to understand that when you register for a Redbud Classic event, you’re not only signing up for a race — you are supporting Oklahoma City through fun, fitness and philanthropy,” Redbud Classic Race Director Kristin Hersom said. “Your registration is going to individuals in our community who need it most with our annual beneficiary, Wings, to support adults with developmental disabilities.”

Wings is a place where adults with disabilities can feel safe and indepen-

dent, develop productive job skills and live healthy, satisfying and enjoyable lives while serving their community. In their commitment to enhance the lives of these adults, Wings has two programs, the Day Program and the Social Club, where members are taught health, culinary, art and life skills and can further develop in a fun, safe and social environment.

“We are honored and excited to partner with the Redbud Classic and serve as this year’s beneficiary,” Wings Development Officer Allyson Wolfe said. “We have worked tirelessly to build a strong, stable organization that is making a real and lasting impact on our members’ quality of life, and ensure we are taking the worry off families who stress about if their child will be taken care of and be able to live a full life after they’re gone.”

The 2023 Redbud Classic features events for the whole family starting on Saturday, April 15, with 10- and 30-Mile Bike Tours, a 50-Mile Fondo and a 1-Mile Kids’ Fun Run, in addition to a 1-Mile Woof Walk. The events continue on Sunday, April 16, with 5K and 10K timed runs, 5K Wheelchair and Pushchair Event, 2-Mile Walk and 2-Mile Baby Stroller Derby.

The 1-Mile Woof Walk will take place immediately following the 1-Mile Kids’ Fun Run on Saturday, April 15. Registration costs $15 per

dog and each owner will receive a medal along with a bandana for their pet. Dogs are required to be leashed at all times, with no retractable leashes allowed.

The Redbud Classic events continue past the finish line with the Redbud BASH. The BASH will be held Sunday, April 16, at 1 p.m. in the finish area at Nichols Hills Plaza. There will be a variety of food from some of Oklahoma’s premier food trucks, beverages from COOP Ale Works and other sponsors, free family-friendly games and activities, music and other entertainment.

Interested participants can register online today. In-person registration will be available at the registration office between April 13-16. By registering early at redbud.org, participants are more likely to receive the lowest available registration prices, their choice of T-shirt size as well as a timing tag.

“Everyone deserves to live a full, vibrant life, and through your registration or donation to the 2023 Redbud Classic, you will be helping provide resources to ensure these members of our community are engaged in educational, social and volunteer work that profoundly impacts their quality of life and physical and mental health,” Hersom said.

For complete event details including start times, course maps and registration information, visit redbud.org.

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.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Two of the many participants from a past Redbud race. Even four-legged friends enjoy the race.

A look at some not-too-bright crooks

Every now and then we like to feature criminals who don’t have a lot upstairs.

The following true stories are yet another reason why crime does not pay.

They say criminals always return to the scene of the crime — but a bumbling California bank robber didn’t even wait a day before he came back to the branch he allegedly knocked over.

Samuel Brown, 33, was busted after he tried to rob the same Fountain Valley Chase bank two days in a row, police said.

The San Diego resident took off with “a large amount of cash” after he slipped a stickup note to a teller at the Newhope Street Chase at 3 p.m. Monday, Fountain Valley police said in a news release.

But the dough apparently wasn’t enough for Brown, who came back to the bank the next morning and tried to rob it again, cops said.

Police arrived at around 11:15 a.m. and arrested him without incident, according to the release.

Brown had an outstanding arrest warrant and a rap sheet that included previous robbery convictions in San Diego, police stated.

He is being held on $170,000 bail in Orange County Jail and facing multiple robbery charges, the release said.

Asleep at the steal

An Ohio woman reportedly woke up to discover a burglar napping in her guest bedroom after he had broken in overnight, taken a swim in her outdoor pool — and even eaten the family’s leftover chicken.

“He just helped himself to everything in our house,” Stacy Steadman told the Associated Press of the bizarre break-in.

Steadman — who lives with her husband, son and brother-in-law — said she saw that a light was on in the spare room, where she then found the not-so-smooth criminal snoozing.

The quick-thinking gal — whose husband, Raymond Pearson, had already left for work before the invasion — woke up her brother-in-law, Bryant Pearson, who chased the intruder out of the home.

Unfortunately, that was only the

tip of the iceberg. The distraught woman subsequently discovered that the door to the backyard was open and that the man’s sopping wet trousers were laying by the pool, indicating that he’d taken a swim, the AP reported. She added that the hungry criminal had also apparently finished off the leftovers of the previous night’s chicken dinner — and even “lit a candle in the bathroom,” as if their home was an Airbnb.

Before leaving, the creepy nap-nabber even swiped a pair of her son’s underwear.

It remains unclear how the man entered the home, although Steadman’s husband had spied the guy walking in the street shirtless before he left for work at 4 a.m. He reportedly waited until the wackadoo passed by before driving off.

“When I left here, my family was sound asleep. My family was safe,” he said.

Thankfully, the sleepy chickensnatcher was arrested by police, who suspected that he was intoxicated and brought him to a hospital for an examination. The man has since been slapped with a burglary charge and issued a court summons.

Nonetheless, Steadman remains rattled by the fact that a prowler was able to infiltrate the home they’d been living in for more than a decade.

This isn’t the first time a criminal has treated someone’s house like a Holiday Inn. In 2015, police in Sarasota, Florida, reported arresting a man who had broken into a home

and then fallen asleep on the sofa.

Caught  orange handed

A woman was busted for a home invasion in Oklahoma — thanks in part to “Cheeto dust” found in her teeth, authorities allege.

Sharon Carr was arrested on a firstdegree burglary charge after allegedly committed the dangerously cheesy act Friday at a home in Tulsa, police said.

Cops say they arrived at the home that night, where a mom of two young kids had called 911 to report that another lady had pried a screen off her window and gotten inside.

The snack-loving sneak had already fled — but cops say they found “a bag of Cheetos and a bottle of water on the floor near the open window.”

A few seconds later, however, Carr allegedly emerged from the shadows, police told news station KTUL.

The mom ID’d her as the invader — and the bust was further cemented when they found the incriminating orange snack-food residue still stuck in her teeth, the outlet reported.

Cops think she dropped the bag while making her escape.

“A good reminder that Cheeto dust can be pretty hard to get rid of,” Tusla police wrote on Facebook.

Thief with good taste

A thief swiped an entire cash register — and two bottles of Hennessey — from a Chelsea Italian restaurant early Saturday, and casually strolled out of the eatery with his loot in tow, surveillance video shows.

The thief apparently broke a win-

dow at the Chelsea Ristorante Italiano around 7:20 a.m. and then shimmied his way inside.

Video obtained by The Post shows the man fiddling with the register on the counter of the bar, and then snatching the entire machine — which contained $400 — as well as the bottles, before walking out.

Another video shows him strolling out with the register in one arm and a black backpack over the other.

After he walks away, another man can be seen slowing down, and then stopping to stare at the open door to the eatery.

Manager Donny Elezi, 28, of Staten Island, was sleeping when he received a distressed phone call from a chef who had witnessed the burglary.

“Somebody broke in and took the cash register!” the chef told him.

Luckily, the register had been cleared of most of the big bills. The thief got mostly “singles, change for the next day,” Elezi said.

“We have reservations,” he said of the Saturday afternoon brunch rush. “We need to make that $400 back.”

The eatery ultimately opened an hour late on Saturday.

“It’s an old cashier!” he added. “Thirty years, no one has ever stolen [it].”

The suspect, who remains at large, was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, khaki shorts carrying the black backpack, according to police.

A few dollars short of a paycheck

A knucklehead Ohio bank robber slipped a teller a hold-up note — with his name and address scrawled on it, officials said.

Michael Harrell, 54, entered a US Bank branch in Cleveland on Monday and passed the not-so-discreet note, the FBI said.

“When the teller took the note, and looked at it and looked at the other side, she saw his name, he had used a note that he had used earlier at the [Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles] and it had his name on it,” FBI Special Agent Vicki Anderson told news station WIVB.

The teller reportedly complied with his demand and handed Harrell $206 before calling the authorities.

“She actually even referred to him as Michael. Gave him the money and called him Michael and then notified law enforcement,” Anderson said.

Harrell, who was a frequent customer, has been arrested in the robbery, CNN reported. It’s unclear if charges have been filed against him.

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

This

“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

Ray Hibbard

Edmond PD a big supporter of Special Olympics

One of Edmond’s police vehicles is getting a new look for a great cause. Residents around town will soon glimpse the Edmond Police Department’s newly wrapped Tahoe, highlighting EPD’s long-standing partnership with Special Olympics Oklahoma. In conjunction with the National Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run, the Edmond Police Department raises funds locally year-round for Oklahoma’s Special Olympians. The new wrap featuring three Edmond athletes was unveiled to the public last week. On hand were Special Olympics athletes as well as members of the Edmond PD.

PHOTO BY MELINDA INFANTE

(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.)

Jan. 9

Noel Lynn Box, 29 of Edmond. Expired tag, one to three months, no proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Sean William Dozier, 41 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia and burglary in the second degree.

Tashia Dee Ann Poore, 39 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.

Jan. 10 Clinton Robert, 29 of Edmond. Five counts of failure to appear.

Michael Dale Finley, 52 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Jan. 11

Justin D’Lynn White, 32 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Syedi Masooma Abedi, 42 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Jan. 12

Connor Jacob Ray Jones, 19 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Dionte Tarron Anderson, 33 homeless. Failure to appear.

Rashaam Dewayne Briggs, 36 of Oklahoma City. Stop sign violation and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Sean Armont McCoy, 55 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Jan. 13 Charles Derek Hodges, 32 homeless. Trespassing after being warned and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mary Elizabeth Wilson, 61 of Edmond. Driving (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 of more.

Martin Eugene Johnson 31 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Christa Ann Perry, 47 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Jan. 14

Jacob Peyton Golightly, 23 of Meridian. Public intoxication.

Hayden Wilson Ware, 39 of Yukon. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Ashton Nathaniel Maze, 24 of Oklahoma City. Non-resisting office and public intoxication.

Curtis James Taylor, 23 of Edmond. Driving while license is canceled, suspended or revoked and operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Zakaria Rifky, 34 of Edmond. Public intoxication, resisting arrest and (misdemeanor) assault on a police or peace officer.

Erika Elaine Heusman, 31 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication

Sherilyn Gay Voegele, 52 of Edmond. Possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jan. 15

Osbin Duvenith Alvarez, 19 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or a combination of schedule one chemical or controlled substance.

Tayvian Leshawn Johnson, 22 of Edmond. Operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .15 or more.

William Franklin Stockwell Jr., 34 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) receiving stolen property.

Joseph Edward Buza Jr., 72 of Edmond. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs, use of firearm during a felony, possess firearm after the conviction of a felony, pointing a firearm, obstruction of police officer and public intoxication.

Timothy Richard Walter, 37 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and a felony warrant.

Jan. 16

Jeffrey Doyle Cornelison, 27 of Oklahoma City. Four counts of possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Aiden Matthew Ivey, 18 of Edmond. Under 21 operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating sub-

stance.

Dalvin Wesley Moore, 29 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Austin Britt Walton, 37 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Thomas David Horton, 61 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Scott Allan Harger, 51 of Edmond. Failure to stop – accident involving injury and assault and/or battery with a deadly weapon.

Jan. 17

Thomas David Horton, 61 of Edmond. Assault and battery ( Felony ) on a police officer or correctional staff and felony DUI/APC.

Travis Don Horton, 28 homeless. Non-assault resisting officer, trespassing and public intoxication.

Kimberly Anne Deilami, 54 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.

Jan. 18

Rochelle Alexandra Sethman, 27 homeless. Failure to appear.

Barrett Mackenzie McCormick, 32 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Mathis Michael Alexander, 31 of Edmond. Expired tag over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Jan. 19

Patrick Craig Collateta, 37 of Oklahoma City. Two counts of possession of CDS and obstruction of a police officer.

Dillan James Watkins, 21 of Oklahoma City. Carrying a weapon under the influence of alcohol or drugs and operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Horizon Joe Miller, 26 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

Rylan Allen Seay, 22 of The Village. Two felony warrants and two misdemeanor warrants.

Heather Ann Gordon, 48 homeless. A misdemeanor warrant and four felony warrants.

Nicholette Sharlene Farlow, 30 of Edmond. Shoplifting.

Jan. 20

Jacquira Deneece Dillard, 31 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Rayrodriguez Vinis Bokun, 21 of Edmond. Improper lane usage, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to appear.

Walter Kinney Gibbs, Jr. , 59 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

William Mitchell Rosser, 26 homeless. Two counts of obstruction of officer.

Peter David Quackenbush, 67 of Edmond. Distribution of child pornography and aggravated possession of child pornography (100 or more materials.)

Brittney Michelle Mangrum, 33 of Fort Worth, Texas. Public intoxication and failure to appear.

Joseph Wayne Galindo, 40 of Edmond. Disturb the peace, obstruction of an officer, and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Brian Joseph Cloud 31 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and failure to appear.

Ruby Florez, 36 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Princess Jacklon Nicole Spencer, 21 homeless. Public intoxication.

Gary Allen Maldonado, 51 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Jeffery Jay Myers, 48 of Enid. Misdemeanor warrant.

Rashid Jamal Sledge, 43 of Rock Hill, SC. Obstruction of police officer, throw human waste at a government employee, assault and battery/battery (felony) on a police officer or correctional staff and public intoxication.

Brandon Allen Thomas, 33 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Jan. 21

James Eric Pappano Jr., 20 of Edmond. Operarte (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .08 or more.

Teriael Lamar McDonald, 26 of Edmond. Transporting open container of intoxicating beverage or beer, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, and operating ( DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Quashonna Norsha Nubine, 31 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant and a felony warrant.

Larry Neil Shaw, 69 of Edmond. Possession of CDS and (misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Ryne Alexander Ainsworth, 37 of Edmond. Op-

erate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Dennis Travon Murphy, 31 of Edmond. Trespassing, shoplifting and failure to appear.

Trenton Allen Jordan-Reynolds, 24 of Guthrie. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.

Jan. 22

Jackson Lee Kinnear, 28 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .15 or more.

Joe Benjamin Roseshamer, 44 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned.

Colby Jay Fitzgerald, 21 of Edmond. Driving while license is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Kevin Michael Knez, 50 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.

Jan. 23

Anthony Dorien Rainger, 21 of Edmond. Ten counts of failure to appear.

Becky Lee Wykes, 44 of Edmond. (Felony) domestic abuse assault & battery.

Kanda Paulette Ramos Saracho, 47 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and expired tag over three months.

Princess Jacklon Nicole Spencer, 21 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Menjivar Yuver Anai Maldonado, 36 of Edmond. Operating (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Jan. 24 Shirley Jane Sandoval, 50 of Oklahoma City. (Misdemeanor 1st and 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from a retailer and possession of CDS.

Cynthia Ann Aguilar, 47 of Oklahoma City. Petit larceny.

Yan-Amont Billy Darianssen, 49 homeless, Two misdemeanor warrants.

Jan. 25

Bernard Tyrone Caldwell, 39 of Edmond. Possession of firearm following a conviction of a felon and murder in the first degree.

Aljon Rashad Lamon Smith, 28 of Luther. Failure to appear and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Christina Diana Wilson, 41 of Edmond. Petty larceny.

Man is accused of murder

A man was charged with murder in the first degree following an incident last week, Jan. 25.

It happened at Castle Rock road in Edmond

The following is an account of the incident, as provided by the Edmond PD.

————

The Edmond Dispatch was contacted by multiple individuals in Florida reporting that their relative living in Edmond had just killed his wife and posted a video on social media.

They said he stated that he planned to kill more people. Officers responded to his known address off Edmond Rd. and Santa Fe Ave., and were not able to make contact with anyone inside. Edmond Police Negotiators, SWAT, and Bomb Squad were called to the scene. SWAT breached the front door with the ram on their rescue vehicle, and the bomb robot was sent in to clear the home, and make contact with anyone inside. Utilizing the robot’s camera speaker, as well as a loud speaker, officers were ultimately able to talk the suspect into coming outside.

Just before 10:30 a.m., 39-year-old Bernard Caldwell surrendered to officers without incident, and was taken into custody. One victim, 48-yearold Demetria Jordan was located inside deceased. This investigation is on-going, and charges are pending.

Bernard Caldwell

Weekend calendar, Feb. 2-5

What’s Happening This Weekend Feb 2 - 5

- In the Gallery

- Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

- Indoor Winter Market

- February at the UCO Jazz Lab

- Nick Massey

- Kennedy Fine

- Horseless Ryder

- Yoga + Beer

- Hearts for Art

- Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Boley Rodeo

- Signature Tour

- Chocolate Decadence

- Pool & Spa Show

- First Friday Gallery Walk

- Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show

- OKC Philharmonic presents: It’s a Bird! It’s a Plane! It’s Super Philharmonic!

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: Brad McNeill Gallery Opening; Thu, Feb 2; 5 p.m.; Free; featuring Brad McNeill; edmondfinearts.com

Tiny, But Mighty! Exhibit

Location: Edmond Historical Society & Museum

Extra Info: Wed, Oct 5 – Thu, Aug 31, 2023; edmondhistory.org

Indoor Winter Market

Location: Mitch Park

Extra Info: through Sat, Mar 18; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov

February at the UCO Jazz Lab

Location: UCO Jazz Lab

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 3; 8 p.m.; $15; Sat, Feb 4; Smilin’ Vic; 8 p.m.; $15; ucojazzlab.com

Nick Massey

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 2; 7 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com

Kennedy Fine Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 3; 8 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com

Horseless Ryder

Location: Frenzy Brewing Company

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 4; 7 p.m.; Free; frenzybrewing.com

Yoga + Beer

Location: American Solera - Icehouse Project

Extra Info: Sat, Feb 4; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; americansolera.com

Hearts for Art

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 2 – Sun, Feb 5; 10 a.m. – 5

p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Kids Take Over the Cowboy: Boley Rodeo

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Feb 4; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Signature Tour Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Sat, Feb 4 – Sun, Feb 5; 1 - 2 p.m.; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Chocolate Decadence

Location: Leadership Square, Oklahoma City

Extra Info: Thu, Feb 2; 6:30 – 9 pm.; automobilealley.org

Pool & Spa Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 3 – Sun, Feb 5; Fri: 12 – 9 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sun: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; okcfairgrounds.com

First Friday Gallery Walk

Location: Paseo Arts District

Extra Info: Fri, Feb 3; 6 – 9 p.m.; thepaseo.org

Claude Hall’s Original OKC Gun Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Sat, Feb 4 – Sun, Feb 5; Sat: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; okcgunshow.com

Romance to be in the air at Round Barn

ARCADIA – Love songs and chocolate are on tap for the Feb. 12 Round Barn Rendezvous at the Arcadia Round Barn. The annual Valentine’s Day jam session starts at noon and will continue until about 4 p.m. Musicians of all skill levels are invited to bring their instruments and perform a favorite love song.

Joe Baxter, who coordinates the live music at the Round Barn, will be playing some of the love songs he has written through the years including “Romeo’s Girl,” which won the 2021 Red Dirt Gypsy Café songwriting contest.

Admission is free but donations will be accepted for refreshments and for the maintenance of the Round Barn, which was built in 1898 and restored in 1992 as a museum.

The Round Barn Rendezvous is held year-round on the second Sunday of

the month. The Round Barn Ramblers, which is Baxter’s acoustic Americana band, play every Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the downstairs museum.

The Elm Tree Concert Series, which features Oklahoma singer-songwriters, is held every Sunday afternoon from May through October beneath the shade of the giant elm tree on the north side of the barn.

The Round Barn is six miles east of Interstate 35 on historic Route 66 and is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is staffed by volunteers, and the barn currently has an opening for a Sunday volunteer. For more information about live music at the barn, call Baxter at 405-8331350. For information about becoming a volunteer, call Volunteer Coordinator Kimberly Burk at 405-651-0240.

The Arcadia Round Barn will have romantic themed music Feb. 12 in Arcadia starting at 4 p.m.

AAA event to explain all about cruise lines

Cruise lines are gearing up for a strong year with travel demand rising and Americans eager to set sail. A new AAA survey finds 52% of U.S. adults are just as likely or more likely to consider taking a cruise vacation than they were before to the pandemic. That number is up from 45% one year ago. Smaller, more intimate ships are gaining popularity, like river cruises, which offer personalized itineraries and port-centric experiences.

AAA members and non-members alike are invited to explore River Cruise options at All About River Cruises

Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 6 to 7 p.m., at AAA Quail Springs, 13225 N. Pennsylvania, OKC

Interactive, free event sponsored by AMA Waterways

Seating is limited; for more details and to RSVP, call (405) 717-8286, or RSVP online.

“With river cruising, you unpack once and dock in the heart of each destination you visit in ways you can’t on an ocean cruise,” Leslie Gamble, AAA Oklahoma spokesperson, said.  “With more time to explore, river cruising allows you to delve deeper into local culture in Europe, Asia, Egypt and beyond.”

River cruises also remedy some of the common concerns about travel on ships.

5 Biggest Myths about Cruising

I will be bored. A cruise can be as active or as relaxing as you want it to be. Expedition cruises are all about the destination and focus on the great outdoors. For travelers looking to take in the sights and sounds of a breathtaking city, European river cruises, for example, offer port-centric activities that immerse passengers in the local culture.

I will get seasick. Travelers who are extra sensitive can take medications like Dramamine, use acupressure

bracelets, or wear seasickness patches behind the ear. Cruising on a river is always smooth and breezy, so you never have to worry about seasickness.

I will have to wear formal clothes. The days of wearing a tuxedo or cocktail dress in the evening are over unless you just want to go all out! Most cruise lines have adopted a resort casual dress code. Compared to an ocean cruise, river cruises are much more low-key and never feel crowded, so don’t expect any fancy clubs or casinos, just pure relaxation.

The only activities on a cruise are eating and drinking. It's no secret that cruises are known for buffets and drinks by the pool. But there are plenty of other things to do. River ships make sightseeing incredibly convenient by dropping off guests near the top things to see at each port and often remaining docked late into the evening, allowing guests more time to explore. Included in the price are shore excursions at every port of call.

Cruise ships are crowded and only for older folks. Today's cruises are popular with people of all ages and offer a fantastic vacation for families, groups of friends, and honeymooners. River cruise vessels rarely accommodate more than 200 people at a time, treating you to an exclusive and intimate travel experience that is unlike any other.

Gamble says travel agents can help clarify cruising misconceptions and identify a ship that fits each traveler’s needs. "There is something for everyone when selecting a cruise vacation. AAA travel agents are skilled at finding the cruise that meets your budget and expectations," adds Gamble "Cruise lines have undertaken extensive measures to promote health and safety onboard, so you can expect attention to detail and cleanliness."

The king scammer

By Steve Gust

Netflix has an interesting look at the life of big league scammer, the late Bernie Madoff.

known something wasn’t right.

Who knows? The critics might have a point. A bank has to do a report on anyone who deposits $10,000 in cash. Shouldn’t they know something about a client with billions of dollars?

New senator wants energy independence

Steve Gust

The New Yorker operated an investment firm for decades. But it turned out to be a Ponzi Scheme, which defrauded thousands of people of life savings and billions of dollars.

Madoff’s scheme was finally exposed in 2008. He received a long prison term and he died in 2021.

I’ve read about the crime before. But it’s still heartbreaking to watch some of the witness accounts of people who got financially wiped out, like widows.

There was lots of finger pointing as well. Some blamed the government, especially the Securities Exchange Commission. Critics allege the SEC were tipped off about the crime but didn’t do anything. Others said a bank, which handled billions annually from Madoff’s company, should have

The whole Madoff incident was tragic. There were no checks and balances on the conman’s operation. It makes you wonder if there are other people out there, busy cheating people out of $65 billion. How do scammers live with their consciences after doing something like that?

Human behavior never ceases to amaze me.

—-

The Madoff deal, as well as almost everything that goes on in government, drives home a point.

Transparency is a good thing whether on the state, federal or local level.

And if someone is handling my money I’m going to make sure my questions are answered.

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

Last week, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) unveiled his first legislative package, introducing three bills to restore American energy independence. The Promoting CrossBorder Energy Infrastructure Act, Fracturing Regulations are Effective in States Hands (FRESH) Act, and the Federal Lands Freedom Act will roll back burdensome regulation for U.S. domestic producers and empower states to have more authority over their own energy resources.

“Energy is the backbone of our economy,” Mullin said. “It’s an obvious place to start. American energy independence brings global stabilization, and I am proud to come from a state leading our nation in an all-ofthe-above energy approach. Oklahoma is home to a robust oil and gas industry while still making room for new and innovative energy solutions. I am confident that we can serve as a model for the nation moving for-

ward. Our country should follow Oklahoma’s lead and embrace policies that bring American innovation and ingenuity to the forefront. Restoring American energy security is critical to lower the cost of living for Americans and end our reliance on foreign adversaries who use energy access as a threat.”

“This legislation will ensure regulatory certainty for domestic producers and get the federal government out of the way,”Mullin continued. “These three bills cover exploration, sourcing, and transport of energy, and they are only the beginning. Americans deserve affordable and reliable energy, which we have right under our feet. It’s time to end the Left's attack on the industry and unleash American potential."

Promoting Cross-Border Energy Infrastructure Act

This bill will eliminate the Presidential Permit Requirement for cross-border energy infrastructure to provide regulatory certainty for energy producers

Fracturing Regulations are Effective in States Hands (FRESH) Act

This bill will allow states the opportunity to obtain unilateral authority to regulate fracking, including geothermal production, that occurs on federal lands within their borders

Federal Lands Freedom Act

This bill will allow states to submit a declaration requesting a transfer of responsibility for the leasing, permitting, and the development of oil, natural gas and other forms of energy on federal land located in the state in lieu of the federal government

A look at more new bills filed

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, has filed legislation to protect the Second Amendment rights of Oklahomans and prevent further federal overreach.

“The feds are continually looking for ways to circumvent the Constitution and trample our fundamental rights,” Dahm said. “The arbitrary and onerous pistol-brace rule set by ATF – an agency filled with unelected and unaccountable bureaucrats – is just the latest example. We clearly cannot count on those in the swamp to protect our rights, so we must do it ourselves.”

Senate Bill 818 states that “A firearm, a firearm accessory, or ammunition that is manufactured commercially or privately in Oklahoma and that remains exclusively within the borders of Oklahoma is not subject to federal law, federal taxation, or federal regulation including registration…”

“This bill, along with SB 21 and SB 23 that I filed in December, will provide protection for law-abiding gun owners in Oklahoma,” Dahm said. “Multiple

Oklahoma sheriffs have already stated that they will not be enforcing the new ATF rule. These bills will provide them with additional support in their stand against federal overreach.”

SB 21 would require federal agents to give notice to the sheriff before operating in their county. SB 23, an expansion of the Second Amendment Sanctuary Act passed by the Legislature in 2021, gives county sheriffs the authority to detain or arrest any federal employee operating within their county who is attempting to carry out any of the gun control measures prohibited by the act.

“We cannot continue to allow our rights to be sacrificed by spineless politicians,” Dahm said. “We must stand up to the rogue regime in Washington, and I believe these bills are a great place to start.”

——

Sen. George Burns, R-Pollard, has filed two measures for the 2023 session aimed at strengthening Oklahoma’s election processes.

Senate Bill 120 repeals a statute authorizing the

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state to enter into one or more multistate voter list maintenance organizations, including the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC).

“Our state is not currently a member of ERIC, but we need to put policies in place that will stop it from happening in the future. It’s simple, we don’t need to give personal voter information to a non-profit,” Burns said. “We must stand for fair and secure elections and protect citizens’ private information.”

SB 426 authorizes the secretary of a county election board to utilize GPS technology to ensure voters are assigned to the appropriate precinct.

“After the Legislature determines the district boundaries, county election boards are responsible for determining precincts. Using GPS to check addresses to ensure they are in the correct precinct will further ensure that we have an even number of voters across every district and in every precinct.”

These bills can be considered after the legislative session convenes on Feb. 6.

——Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, and Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, have filed universal school choice legislation to benefit children in all corners of the state. Daniels’ Education Freedom Act, Senate Bill 822, provides parents the option of tapping into a portion of their child’s education dollars to pay for a variety of education services, including tuition.

“It’s time to empower Oklahoma parents to be able to choose the best education for their own children, regardless of their zip code or financial circumstances,” Daniels said. “The Education Freedom Act gives them the tools to make that happen. If we truly want to be a top ten state, let’s give parents, seeking an alternative to their public school, the chance to give their child the best chance for academic success and the promise of a bright future.”

The bill allows parents to establish an account in the office of the State Treasurer from which to reimburse education service providers. The amount available is determined by the annual state per pupil expenditure set by the Department of Education.

Oklahoma’s Stafford Museum is inspiring

By Elaine Warner

Oklahoma has produced some American legends but perhaps the most brilliant, most acclaimed Oklahoman came from a small, western Oklahoma town. While this larger-than-life figure no longer lives in the state, he hasn’t forgotten his home town – and the town certainly hasn’t forgotten him. To celebrate the man and his contributions to some of America’s greatest accomplishments, make a pilgrimage to the General Thomas P. Stafford Air and Space Museum in Weatherford.

What began as a small display case in the tiny Weatherford airport grew to two rooms in 1993 and has now exploded into a multi-galleried, 63,000 square foot, Smithsonian affiliate museum. The two original rooms are the Stafford Gallery and are dedicated to the incredible life, career and accomplishments of Tom Stafford. Toys, a grade card, a Boy Scout scarf and photos highlight Stafford’s youngest days while a Weatherford High School football jacket and other memorabilia come from his high school years. Graduating from Weatherford High School in 1948, he was offered a scholarship to the University of Oklahoma to play football but his acceptance to the U.S. Naval Academy took him in a very different direction.

Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Air Force. Training and a number of missions followed. He was selected for test pilot training and became a test pilot, a test pilot instructor, and then co-authored training manuals on flight testing. Following that assignment, he applied and was accepted to Harvard’s Business School.

He barely got his foot in the door when he was notified that he had been accepted by NASA for its second group of astronauts.

In the second room of the Stafford Gallery, highlights from his career include a video called “Higher and Faster.” The title reflects the record set by Apollo 10 and Commander Stafford with crewmembers Gene Cernan and John Young. Upon reentry, the three traveled the highest speed ever experienced by a human – 24,791 miles per hour. Other exhibits include flight suits and awards along with highlights from his many other accomplishments

From there, visitors walk back into the past and a history of aviation. The first exhibit is a full-scale replica of the Wright Flyer. In 1903, the Wright plane was the first engine-powered, heavier-than-air vehicle to achieve flight. The replica is actually capable of flying.

This museum is full of educational graphics. The one about the Wright brothers and their achievement includes a child’s toy which inspired their thinking plus the engineering challenges they faced in creating the plane.

Other historic aircraft hang from the ceiling while a full-scale replica of “The Spirit of Saint Louis” on the ground gives visitors a peek at Lindbergh’s farfrom-fancy cockpit.

Don’t overlook a small display in an antique safe. Apollo 11 Commander Neil Armstrong had been able to obtain two small bits of the original Wright Flyer. These he took with him to the moon.

Wouldn’t the Wright brothers have been surprised!

The Gemini Gallery is the next area and leads into some of the museum’s coolest exhibits. While the purpose of the Mercury program (1961-1963) was to determine the ability of humans to survive in space, the Gemini program (1965-1966) pushed to

test the goal of working and living in space.

Walking into this gallery, you can’t miss the giant Titan II rocket that stretches 100 feet across the entire north end of the building. Its unarmed nuclear warhead stands next to it. The Titan II was the rocket of choice for the Gemini program.

The focal point of this gallery is the actual Gemini 6A spacecraft flown by astronauts Stafford and Wally Schirra. In December, 1965, they performed the very first rendezvous with another spacecraft, the Gemini 7, a task that would be necessary for lunar exploration. The newest gallery, “Powering the Race to the Moon,” highlights the power of the Saturn V rocket which ultimately took men to the moon. You won’t find a Saturn V in here – this behemoth was taller than the Statue of Liberty, pedestal, foundation, and all! What they do have is an actual, test-fired, F-1 rocket engine. It took five of these engines to lift the rocket with the command, service and lunar modules on top, and nearly a million gallons of fuel.

Moving into the Apollo Gallery, a large sculpture of Snoopy welcomes guests. The Charles Schulz characters Snoopy and Charlie Brown, were the respective names that General Stafford chose to name the Apollo 10 lunar module (Snoopy) and command service module (Charlie Brown). Apollo 10 was the mission which scouted out sites for the planned Apollo 11 moon landing.

The premier exhibit in this gallery is the full-scale, high-fidelity replica of the lunar module and astronauts Armstrong and Aldrin. Nearby is a full-scale interactive lunar module simulator. The interactive features allow guests to choose one of the six lunar landings or launches, listen to actual communication between the astronauts and Mission Control, and see an astronaut’s view from the lunar module windows as they approach or ascend from the lunar surface.

The Modern Aviation Gallery is approached through a short tunnel created from the engine cowling of a Boeing 747. Here you’ll find the handson “Tweety Bird” cockpit and a collection of modern aircraft including an actual Russian MIG -21, an F-86, a T-38 and the sleek F-16 “Fighting Falcon,” partially developed by General Tom Stafford. This aircraft still serves as one of America’s front-line fighter aircraft.

Though still in development, the Stealth Gallery is impressive in size. It awaits its centerpiece F-117A Stealth fighter, expected to arrive early this year. The story of Stealth technology is even more impressive than the gallery.

In 1979, General Tom Stafford had an idea which he sketched onto a piece of Chicago hotel stationary. That design was the foundation for the Northrop B-2 Stealth Bomber, earning Stafford the soubriquet “Father of Stealth Technology.

The Stafford Museum’s F-117A acquisition is one of the most highly anticipated artifacts in the United States. This Oklahoma museum will be one of only seven with an actual F-117A on display.

A visit to the Stafford Museum is interesting, educational, and inspiring. Its namesake is truly one of America’s heroes.

Weatherford is approximately 90 miles from Norman, about an hour-and-a-half trip. If you’re there for lunch, stop at the Downtown Diner on Main Street. Be sure to save room for dessert.

They’re known for their New Orleans bread pudding with whiskey sauce. If they’re sold out (they were the day we were there), go for the banana pudding.

It’s a real treat.

A Lockheed F=104C “Starfighter” makes an impressive statement at the entrance to the museum.

Elaine

Downtown Diner’s banana pudding makes a sweet ending to a nice lunch.

This suit was worn by Commander Tom Stafford during the Apollo 10 mission.

OMRF awarded a $2.1 million grant

The National Institutes of Health has awarded an Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist $2.1 million to better understand the metabolism of T cells, a critical component of our immune system.

With the five-year grant, OMRF scientist Meng Zhao, Ph.D., will study the role mitochondria — the driver for energy and metabolism in cells — plays in T cells, one of the white blood cells of the immune system.

T cells have several functions, but primarily they guard against infection and are thought to help fight cancer.

“T cells are supposed to protect us, but sometimes they go rogue,” said Zhao, who joined OMRF’s Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program in 2020 from the La Jolla Institute for Immunology. “For someone with autoimmune disease, T cells are a troublemaker. They recognize something that normally is harmless and attack it.”

Despite decades of study on T cells, research into their metabolism is relatively new, Zhao said. Recent investigations have suggested T cells’ mitochondria may have

important functions beyond producing energy.

“There’s still a lot we don’t know about our immune system,” she said. “The more we understand the inner workings, including the specific roles of the mitochondria, the better we can design targeted medications.”

The grant is Zhao’s first independent funding from the NIH. It was awarded under a program for promising scientists still early in their careers, known as the Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award, or MIRA. The competitive federal program offers long-term support, the flexibility to pursue new research directions and favors bold, risk-taking science.

“Dr. Zhao’s research will provide crucial insight at a basic level in our understanding of mitochondria,” said OMRF’s chief clinical officer Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., who leads the foundation’s Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program. “I’m excited to see where her research leads.”

The grant, 1R35GM147713-01, is funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, part of the NIH.

Dog adoption event Feb. 4

This year, the Oklahoma Humane Society will host its inaugural Soulmate Saturday, a Valentine’sthemed adoption and outreach event, on Saturday, February 4 from 12 to 3 PM at Bar K Dog Bar in the Boathouse District. This family- and dogfriendly event is free to attend and will provide community members an opportunity to meet adoptable dogs as well as learn how everyone in OKC can make an impact for our community’s vulnerable dog and cat populations.

"We want the animal-lovers in our community to be aware of all the ways they can make a positive impact on the lives of homeless animals in Oklahoma,” said Mark Eby, Oklahoma Humane Society President & CEO. “This event will be a fun opportunity to snuggle some pups, sign up to foster, and learn about services that OK Humane provides, all while experiencing Bar K, our city's newest hotspot for people and their pets.”

Soulmate Saturday will feature a meet and greet with adoptable dogs and on-site dog adoptions for those interested in finding their own four-legged soulmate. Dogs available for adoption have been spayed/neutered, microchipped, and are current on vaccinations. Adoption fees are $250 for puppies and $150 for adult dogs. Bar K will also provide a free year-long membership for any dogs adopted at Soulmate Saturday.

The event will include an "Advocacy Pawsport" activity and raffle ticket opportunity to win one of several Valentine's Date packages, such as OKC Thunder tickets, a date night at Flix Brewhouse, or a private cocktail class from Midtown's Barkeep. Completed "Pawsports" will enter attendees to win, while raffle tickets will increase their chance of winning, with all proceeds benefitting the lifesaving rescue work of the Oklahoma Humane Society.

Attendees will also enjoy live music from local artist Stephen Salewon, a variety of Valentine’sthemed photo opportunities for both dogs and humans, and an exclusive sneak peek at Bar K, OKC’s newest hang for people and their pups. The event is dog-friendly and attendees are encouraged to bring their own dogs for a free puppy play date before Bar K opens to the public.

The City of Edmond is seeking public input as part of a current effort to create a master plan for Arcadia Lake. A brief survey is currently open through Feb. 6, at https://edmondok.gov/lakesurvey.

The survey is part of an effort by the City of Edmond to complete a new Arcadia Lake Master Plan. Feedback and data received will be used to help inform and shape the new plan that is expected to be completed in the coming months.

The City of Edmond has partnered with Landplan Consultants Incorporated (LPCI) out of Tulsa to complete this effort. LPCI began their process of creating a formal master plan after an Arcadia Lake Task Force completed a visioning process in 2021. The Arcadia Lake Task Force was assembled with various members of the community to create a mission statement for the lake and give recommendations for the future master plan.

Meng Zhao

City seeking public’s input on the lake

e: The University of Central Oklahoma’s Child Study Center recently received a five-star rating from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) — Child Care Services for its high-quality child care program. This is the highest rating achieved in the program’s history. Pictured, volunteer at the Child Study Center holding a children’s story for the clay.

UCO Child Study Center gets top rating from state

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Child Study Center recently received a five-star rating from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) — Child Care Services for its highquality child care program. This is the highest rating achieved in the program’s history.

The rating was determined based on the Oklahoma Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), which assesses the quality of a program’s curriculum, child outcomes, learning environments, teacher-child interactions, professional development and training. QRIS then assigns quality ratings to early childhood programs, ranging from one-to-five star, with five stars being the highest level.

UCO’s Child Study Center focus on improving children’s motor skills, problem-solving abilities, mathematics skills and communication by involving various materials and activities that increase engagement and participation. Due to the enhancement in learning areas including block play, dramatic play, creative arts, writing and communi-

cation, science and nature, the program increased from a three-star rating to a five-star rating.

"The faculty and staff at the Child Study Center continue to work hard in creating a high-quality center for the families enrolled in the program and for UCO students to gain real-world experiences,” said Cristy Smith, coordinator of the UCO Child Study Center.

“We use best practices and evidence from research used in early childhood education and implement that in our classrooms.”

UCO’s Child Study Center continues to make enhancements in classroom curriculum focusing on science, technology, art, engineering and math (STEAM) activities, outdoor and nature-related activities, as well as behavioral and cognitive activities. Additionally, the center plans to strengthen its relationship with the UCO community and its participating family members.

For more information about UCO’s Child Study Center, contact Smith at 405-974-5788 or csmith1@uco.edu.

Alleged IRS snooping concerns Lankford

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and a group of Republican Senators in reintroducing the Stop the Nosy Obsession with Online Payments, or SNOOP, Act, a bill to strike the tax code provision inserted by the Biden Administration in the American Rescue Plan (ARP) that requires thirdparty payment platforms, such as Venmo and PayPal, to report businesses’ gross transaction volumes totaling more than $600 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Joining Lankford and Hagerty in introducing the legislation are Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), John Hoeven (R-ND), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Barrasso (R-WY), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Ted Cruz (R-TX).

“I stand firmly against the IRS snooping on Americans, intruding in Oklahomans’ personal finances through online payments like Venmo or PayPal, and forcing financial institutions to report on Americans’ spending,” said Lankford. “Venmo could include paying friends back or sending money to a college student. The IRS has no business tracking those private transactions. IRS audits are already an option to look into any individual or company the IRS feels is not correctly paying the taxes they owe. It’s sad that we need this bill in place to make sure we protect Americans’ private financial transac-

tions through online payments from the IRS, but it is sadly necessary. This overstep should not be the solution to cover out-of-control federal spending.”

“The Biden Administration has proven relentless in its attempt to invade the privacy of Americans’ lives and finances,” said Hagerty. “It is regrettable that this Administration still insists on advancing their perilous and oppressive political agenda to the detriment of taxpayers’ privacy, heedless of the IRS’s failed track record of protecting Americans’ confidential data and the deep concern of the American people that they serve. Though Republican efforts to repeal these new requirements were ignored for two years, the Biden Administration took a politically-timed shortterm step to save themselves from the consequences of their own actions, but merely delaying this intrusive provision is not enough; It is past time we stand up for our small business owners and put an end to this egregious and unwarranted overreach for good.”

“It is concerning to me that the Biden administration and Democrats in Congress are continuing to place heavier burdens on small businesses across Wyoming,” said Lummis. “The IRS has a history of unfairly targeting businesses they find distasteful and leaving private consumer information vulnerable to bad actors. “

Review of movie ‘The Shotgun Wedding’

One word for film: Disappointing

By George Gust

“The “Shotgun Wedding” is the latest straight to streaming high concept action/ comedy film offering from Amazon Prime. A couple’s (Jennifer Lopez and Josh Duhamel) extravagant destination wedding is hijacked by pirates. In the process of saving their eccentric families they rediscover why they fell in love in the first place.

“Shotgun Wedding” is a disappointing movie. It’s the kind of set up for a film that should appeal to a lot of movie lovers; from the people looking for a little romance and the people who loved the movie “Die Hard.” However, for all its star power and good intentions the ultimate movie we’re presented with is lacking in most everything it set out to do. A comedy that feels like it’s trying too hard and a light action movie that’s not trying hard enough.

There is a hollowness to “Shotgun Wedding” that gives the audience the feeling that everyone involved is just going through the motions while enjoying a tropical vacation of a film shoot. The film’s stars Lopez and Duhamel have an easy

kind of on-screen chemistry that basically coasts of their natural movie star charisma, but not much more. There are moments that work between the two, but the flat and played out script gives them precious little to work with. Even the usual electric comedic performer Jennifer Coolidge can’t make her over-the-top mother-inlaw character shine through the uninspired script that aims at the most clichéd generational comic stylings.

Overall, “Shotgun Wedding” is an R rated action/comedy that wants to be “Die Hard” meets “The Hangover” but grossly misses the mark. Too often the movie deflates the danger of the hostage situation in favor of silly unfunny takes that were played out 5 years ago with the kind of “aren’t new age people silly?” and “This mother from Midwest is out of touch!” brand of boomer humor. And for this kind of broad comedy to work you need to have characters that have a dynamic that somewhat resembles reality. All “Shotgun Wedding” can offer is a script that constantly and painstakingly tells you who these characters are and what they want, which provides a shallow and dull movie experience.

“Shotgun Wedding” is rated R for language and some violence/bloody images.

1 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

Answer on Page 19

OKC

Philharmonic to have show

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic continues its E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Discovery Family Series with “It’s a Bird! It’s a Plane! It’s a Superphilharmonic!” Sunday, Feb. 5, 2 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall.

Guest Conductor Ron Spigelman and the OKCPHIL will take the audience on a musical journey around the world as they track Superman’s progress to the Civic Center. As Superman circles the globe you might hear “Toreador” from Bizet’s Carmen as he crosses over Spain, “Great Gate of Kyiv” as he crosses Ukraine, and “Stars and Stripes Forever” as he enters the United States.

Our Discovery Family Series includes music from movie tunes and classics to popular songs played by the full orchestra. Performances take place in the Thelma Gaylord Theater concert hall at the Civic Center and last about an hour. Musical programming is geared to children ages 4 to 13, and the preconcert lobby activities include arts, crafts, dance, and games related to the theme of the concert. Tickets start at only $9. All Discovery Family Series tickets are general admission tickets.

Crossword Puzzle

PHOTO

Jennifer Lopez and Josh Duhamel star in the high concept low return matrimonial action/comedy "Shotgun Wedding,"

Sheriff, Treat warn public on scams

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat joined Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III last week to warn Oklahoma County residents about scams impacting area residents, after he was the target of a scam.

Recently, the pro tem received a fraud phone call from someone who claimed to be with the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office. They said he failed to appear in front of an Oklahoma County judge.

Before the call could escalate, Treat told the individual he knew Sherriff Johnson and was going to call him. The individual hung up the phone after that.

“I am fortunate to have the luxury of knowing Sheriff Johnson as a personal friend,” Treat said. “Not everyone is so lucky. If anyone else would have received the call I did, it wouldn’t have been out of the realm of possibility to become a victim of a scam. The individual had my name, home address, identified a real Oklahoma County judge who I supposedly missed a hearing in front of and became aggressive when I started questioning him. That is why I wanted to partner with Sheriff Johnson on this announcement, to warn Oklahoma County residents and help them recognize the scams that are going around and how they can protect themselves and their loved ones from becoming a victim.”

Sheriff Johnson said his office has seen an uptick in recent weeks in the number of individuals in Oklahoma County becoming victims to this type of fraud.

“These scams are devious and take advantage of every day, ordinary citizens,” Johnson said. “The frauds are continuing to advance and become harder to spot. Just like Pro Tem Treat, we have heard from attorneys, doctors and dozens of other individuals who have succumb to this type of law enforcement scam and turn over credit card or bank account information, losing hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars. “I appreciate Pro Tem Treat for standing up and his willingness to talk about this kind of thing. The more light we can shed on this, the better.”

Sheriff Johnson said this scam is reaching people nationwide and wants to remind people that the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office will never call an individual to collect fines, fees or offer reduced payment methods, especially via gift card. The Sheriff’s office is offering the following tips on how to avoid law enforcement scams: Never give your credit card to someone claim

ing to be with the sheriff’s office over the phone; Never agree to pay via gift card; Don’t give in to bullying tactics by someone claiming to be with the sheriff’s office; Talk to your family about this scam;

If you receive a call like this, hang up and call the actual sheriff’s office and ask to speak with someone.

If individuals become a victim of this scam, immediately contact the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office at (405) 713-1000.

Victim of a scam?

If you have been victimized by a scammer please call (405) 713-1000.

Francis Tuttle students celebrate their victory for their work at a Thunder basketball media day.

Broadcast students win statewide video award

Students in the Broadcast and Video Production program at Francis Tuttle Technology Center won a statewide contest to promote workbased learning.

The students submitted a video for the Fall 2023 Work-Based Learning Video Contest organized by the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE). They won first place for demonstrating how attending Thunder Media Day gave them a firsthand look at the professional world.

The award includes additional funding for the BVP program at Francis Tuttle.

“We know that your video was a team effort with many contributors, and we would like to ask you to for-

ward our appreciation to all who participated,” said H.L. Baird, Statewide Work Based Learning Liaison for ODCTE, in a letter to the winning students.

BVP students attended Thunder Media Day last September. They interacted with professional videographers, content creators and Thunder players who were creating promotional content for the upcoming NBA season.

Students get a hands-on, real-world experience that supports their classroom learning. It also gives them a chance to network with professionals and improve potential job prospects.

Here’s a link to their winning video: https://vimeo.com/790463706/29cb0

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Wray gets fellowship

Tobias Wray, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of English at the University of Central Oklahoma, recently received the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) 2023 Creative Writing Fellowship — a prestigious and highly competitive program for published creative writers.

“I am delighted by Dr. Wray’s selection for this fellowship,” said Amanda Putnam, Ph.D., chairperson for the Department of English at Central.

“Dr. Wray has established himself as an emerging voice in poetics, and we are thrilled to be a part of his artistic journey. This national recognition exemplifies the excellence of our faculty and programs at UCO.”

Recipients were selected through an anonymous review process and judged based on artistic excellence on the poetry samples provided. Nearly 2,000 applications were received, with Wray being one of 36 applicants selected.

“I am deeply grateful to see more of the path ahead because of this fellowship,” Wray said.

“This will allow me to significantly shorten the time and personal resources it would have taken to finish current projects, giving me hope that more of these poems and essays will be out in the world soon, showing me what to write next.”

In addition to teaching various courses in creative writing at Central, Wray advises the English department’s graduate and undergraduate creative writing programs. His work, “No Doubt I Will Return a Different Man,” won the Cleveland State University (CSU) Lighthouse Poetry Series competition. Other works have appeared in acclaimed literary journals and magazines including Adroit,

Blackbird, Verse Daily, The Georgia Review, Meridian, Bellingham Review and Hunger Mountain, as well as in Queer Nature: A Poetry Anthology, published by Autumn House Press.

The NEA has awarded more than 3,600 Creative Writing Fellowships totaling more than $57 million. Recipients receive $25,000 to encourage artists to set aside time for writing, research, travel and career development.

“The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support this group of poets and provide them with a means to focus on their writing,” said Amy Stolls, director of literary arts for the NEA.

“Their poetry explodes originality in form and content, offering powerful reflection on the pain and joy of our modern times.”

For the full list of NEA 2023 Creative Writing Fellows, visit www.arts.gov/grants/recentgrants/literature-fellowships.

For more information about Central’s creative writing programs, visit www.uco.edu/cla/departments/english/programs-degrees.

Tobias Wray

What is resistance training?

By Brian Attebery

There are many ways to lift weights. Some people only think of weightlifting involving free weights like dumbbells, barbells, and plates. Weightlifting should be better described as “resistance training”.

Your body weight is a fantastic form of that. Pull ups, pushups, dips, lunges, crunches, step ups and many other examples exist that involve no outside equipment other than your body.

There are machines that involve the simple movement of a pin and others that incorporate plates you load on them but their angles and trajectory are fixed in position providing a hybridtype of machine that combines elements of free weights and machines. Cable pulley systems allow consistent tension throughout the range of motion versus resistance bands provide variable resistance because the tension increases as the rubber band gets tighter.

These are all considerations to factor in when designing a program for your fitness needs and likes.

I don’t think there is a perfect way to train. I don’t believe that one type of resistance is the absolute best. I think it is very important to learn basics.

I do think that free weights are important to teach balance of the joint, but I don’t think they are the only way. You can get stronger and tone with any of the forms of resistance training.

Machines are referred to as “selectorized” equipment. You “select” the weight you want to use by simply inserting a pin in the appropriate weight you select. Benefits include better safety since you generally can’t drop the weight on yourself, and you don’t have to load and unload heavy weights off and on the machine. That helps to get your workouts done quicker.

You can also position the seats and handles to get your body in a fixed position if you have various injuries or joint pains that might need certain an-

See Training, Page 19

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Attebery

gles adjusted to reduce stress on the joints. A negative to selectorized machines is that you do not have to balance the weight and you miss out on the strengthening aspect of a that. In addition, a negative would be that you may not realize you are pushing or pulling more with the right or left side of your body because the machines move all together.

Cable machines are another great option to incorporate. Many Physical Therapy clinics utilize these stations since they allow various handle attachments and adjusted range or motion and angles that machines may not offer. Cables can be easier on the joints because they allow movement beyond the fixed plain of motion that machines limit us to but more safety than the free weights. You can also vary the attachments with cable machines and those changes can make for a better workout or at least a different kind of workout or feel for the muscle being worked. A slight change or wrist or elbow position could take stress off a joint by simply changing the auxiliary attachment on the exercise you are doing.

Resistance bands can be used by themselves or with weight machines and free weights. Resistance bands and tubes give the advantage of variable resistance throughout a range or motion.

As the band gets stretched, it becomes more difficult. It’s also easier when you start the movement off and this may help when rehabbing injuries. The bands also allow for motions like mimicking a ball being thrown that a dumbbell or machine might not offer. Resistance bands and tubes are also easy to

pack in your luggage to maintain when you travel. Many of my Miss USA and Miss America competitors that I train depend on these to maintain their fitness on the road.

Developing muscle tone and strength requires that the body be challenged with increased resistance. This resistance type training can and should be done with various methods to maximize stimulus to the body and minimize stress on the joints. By changing up your workouts with the many tools available, you will not only get better results but you

will also stay more motivated with your workouts and goals.

Don’t let misconceptions, physical limits or equipment availability keep you from incorporating resistance training into your weekly fitness program.

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

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