January 15, 2026 Vol. 26, No. 35
In This Issue
Youth fitness gets attention from Edmond State Senator
A move to honor Toby Keith See page 4
FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 Mostly Sunny High 55° Low 29°
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 Partly Cloudy High 50° Low 31°
SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 Sunny High 54° Low 27°
Senate Education Committee Chair Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, announced last week he has filed legislation for the upcoming legislative session to establish the Presidential Fitness Test as a statewide standard for youth physical fitness in Oklahoma schools, aligning with President Donald Trump’s executive order reestablishing the program nationally. The legislation follows Oklahoma’s recent award of $4,075,000 through the Oklahoma Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP, part of a $233 million total grant), which supports initiatives focused on improving long-term health outcomes for Oklahoma communities. Under Senate Bill 1437, the Oklahoma State Department of Education would be directed to develop statewide guidelines for school districts to assess students’ overall physical fitness and encourage lifelong healthy habits. The guidelines would be based on recommendations from the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition and aligned with the RHTP framework. Senator Pugh said he looks forward to working with parents, educators and school leaders as the legislation advances during the 2026 legislative session, which begins in February.“ Physical activity is one of the most important investments we can make in our kids’ future,” Senator Pugh said. “Being active and healthy isn’t just about strength or endurance. It’s about building a foundation for better mental health, stronger academic performance and long-term wellbeing. This legislation encourages healthy habits early in life and supports a culture of fitness that benefits students for a lifetime. These are foundational habits that support overall health and that should always be our goal.”
Adam Pugh, R-Edmond The bill directs OSDE’s guidelines to include: •Training for school personnel responsible for administering the test •Exemption procedures for students with disabilities, medical conditions or other factors affecting participation •A parental opt-out option, ensuring families retain choice If passed and signed into law, all Oklahoma school districts would begin administering the Presidential Fitness Test during the 2026-2027 school year using state-developed guidelines. The Oklahoma State Department of Education will be charged with distributing the funds.
Page 2 • January 15, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
From the Publisher
City’s relationship with The Campbell in Edmond Our colleague at The Oklahoman, Richard Mize, had a story in their paper last week about a lawsuit being filed by the bank against developers of The Campbell. As always, Mize did an excellent job explaining the lawsuit. Here is a portion of the article: “Developers of The Campbell have defaulted on numerous loans and face foreclosure on multiple properties, court Hibbard records show, rattling the mixed-use apartment complex, the first major project in a special public financing district meant to stimulate growth downtown. The lender, BancFirst, sued Campbell 215 LLC and four associated limited liability companies, Rader Building Co., Rader Development, Rader Construction, and Monster Monster, on Dec. 19 in Oklahoma County District Court. The lawsuit also names 16 subcontractors and suppliers. None of the defendants had filed answers to the suit as of Friday, Jan. 2. However, Brandon Rader, a spokesperson for Campbell 215 and the affiliated companies, told The Oklahoman Friday evening: "The Campbell is a successful, mixed-use development in downtown Edmond and is operating normally. We dispute BancFirst’s allegations and claimed payoff amounts and will vigorously defend this case in court. We’re confident in our position and remain committed to downtown." BancFirst is asking the court to order payment of $20.7 million, foreclose on The Campbell and other real estate used as collateral in Edmond, Oklahoma City and Carlton Landing, a masterplanned city at Lake Eufaula, and to appoint a receiver to manage the properties while the foreclosure process unfolds. The Campbell, apartments and mixed-use space billed as "luxury living redefined," is at 217 E Campbell St., less than a half mile east of Broadway Avenue downtown. Its financing was aided by participation in the city's TIF district − TIF stands for "tax increment financing. A TIF district is a designated area that diverts future property tax revenue increases toward economic development projects or public improvements in order to stimulate private investment. Edmond formed its TIF district in September 2020.” I would encourage you to read the complete article which I believe was published in the January 5th issue of the Oklahoman. I have been a critic of the way the City of Edmond has managed its economic incentive programs over the last 15 years. Our family lost business because of the city giving a financial leg up to a competing business so there is a personal prejudices over the issue on my part. The downtown TIF’s are relatively new to the game in downtown Edmond, and we have received a number of questions from readers about them. Some feel there are problems with the program. The current council requested a hard look
at the program and have moved to improve on its structure. My phone started ringing and e-mail caught fire when this latest news broke. It is important to clear up some of the assumptions citizens are making about this TIF program with The Campbell. The first thing folks should remember is that just because a lawsuit was filed does not indicate any wrongdoing. It is a business issue between BancFirst and the project. I serve on a bank board of directors, not BancFirst, and can tell you there can be many reasons for filing a lawsuit including protecting interest. Other transactions can trigger the need for such action. It does not mean the end of a project or that anything wrong was done. I have no idea what the reasons may have been, but it happens with projects from time to time. I make no comment on their actions or reactions. It is a private matter and should stay that way. My interest is in how the city of Edmond manages its TIF program. Folks seemed concerned that the city of Edmond may had already paid the project $1 million of the TIF. Just not true folks. Our new city manager, AJ Krieger, was incredibly open and transparent on the project. His answer to the question of any money paid was this, “Neither the City nor the EPWA have spent any money on the project. There is a payment of $500,000 potentially due in December of this year. I also asked about infrastructure done to help with the project on behalf of the developer and the answer is none. I obtained a copy of the contract that was approved and signed with the developer, and it does not call for any upfront payments or infrastructure work. The contract calls for reimbursement at a rate based on having the ad valorem tax coming in. It cannot be paid in advance of the money received. Will the first payment of $500,000 be paid? No way to tell since the contract is full of conditions and requirements. I am not a lawyer and am in no way qualified to interrupt the contract so if you want to see it just call or email me and I will send it to you. I do know enough as a reporter for 45 years to tell you that there is no “skunk under the house” on the deal. It looks clean and reasonable. Social media is full of incorrect information. Those Apps like “next face” or whatever it is called are terrible at spreading rumors and having our citizens pop a cork over misinformation. Avoid them and stick to finding your cat on them. The TIF still works. You have a $17 million plus improvement to a piece of land that once the incentive money is paid will net our school system a bunch of money that it would not have had if it was just a bare piece of property. There is much work and improvements that need to happen in the TIF program. Ward 4 council member and long-time friend Phil Fraim has made this a priority. Leana Dozier, economic development program manager, updated the council
last fall to get the process rolling for improving the program. Dozier is a great asset to the city of Edmond. She said, "None of the agreements that I will bring forward to the council should have an upfront payment," Dozier said at the Aug. 25 council meeting. "Right now, our contracts are pay-as-you-go. So, it's more like a return of your property taxes." There are two key components as our city moves forward with any kind or form of economic incentive: Transparency and Accountability One of the key principles in the proper use of economic incentives is transparency. City governments must ensure that the process of granting incentives is open and transparent to the public. This includes clearly outlining the criteria for eligibility, the types of incentives available, and the expected outcomes. Transparency helps to build trust between the government and the community, ensuring that residents understand how their tax dollars are being used to promote economic development. Accountability is another crucial principle. City governments must establish mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the incentives they provide. The lack of regular reporting was criticism by council of the brewery development. This can include regular reporting on the outcomes of incentive programs, such as the number of jobs created, the amount of private investment attracted, and the overall economic impact on the community. By holding businesses and developers accountable for meeting their commitments, city governments can ensure that the incentives are achieving their intended goals. We will be watching folks, I promise you that. Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure , may be reached for comment at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Edmond City Manager AJ Krieger
It’s been 25 years since Edmond Life & Leisure premiered with local photographs and articles. We’re still publishing local feature and news articles. Please send local stories and photos to news@edmondpaper.com For Advertising contact Alexx Reger at alexx@edmondpaper.com
Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com
Check out what’s inside! --- A move to honor the late-Toby Keith ..........................................Page 4. --- Police booking report ..................................................................Page 6. --- Calendar of weekend events........................................................Page 7. --- Senior news ................................................................................Page 8. --- Columnist looks at the development of language ....................Page 10. --- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page 14. --- George Gust reviews new film ..................................................Page 14. ---- Business news ..........................................................................Page 17. --- Comics ......................................................................................Page 18. ---- Church directory ......................................................................Page 19. This and so much more in this week’s edition
Production Deanne York Advertising Director Business Editor Alexx Reger alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Kimberly Burk, Rose Drebes, and George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante
Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2026 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 • January 15, 2026 • Page 3
individuals perform a lion dance at a prior year's event.
Community invited to Lunar New Year celebration, Jan. 22 The University of Central Oklahoma invites the community to celebrate Asian culture during a Lunar New Year celebration from 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 22, in Hamilton Field House, located on UCO’s campus. The cultural celebration will welcome the Year of the Horse, a zodiac sign symbolizing strength, energy, resilience and forward momentum, with tradition, excitement and community.
The Lunar New Year celebration is a free, familyfriendly event featuring lion dance performances, drumming by Kanpai Taiko, interactive martial arts demonstrations, as well as other cultural performances. Happy Lemon Tea will be on-site to provide specialty drinks and complimentary food for the first 400 attendees. “Lunar New Year is a time to honor heritage, welcome renewal and build community,” said
Kalvin Gutierrez, a junior finance major from Edmond, Oklahoma, and president of the UCO Asian American Student Association. “This event creates an opportunity for our campus to come together, learn and celebrate Asian cultures in a meaningful way.” For more information, contact the UCO Office of Student Engagement at se@uco.edu or call 405471-3456.
Chamber officials endorse school bond issues The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors recognizes the importance of public education to the Edmond community and has endorsed the passage of both the Edmond Public Schools and Deer Creek Public Schools bond issues, which will appear on the ballot on February 10, 2026. The 2026 bond election for Edmond Public Schools would allow the district to move forward with construction and renovation projects across the district. These district-wide investments include safety and security enhancements, classroom additions, technology and equipment purchases, and infrastructure improvements. Each school in the
district will receive upgrades. The 2026 bond election for Deer Creek Public Schools focuses on expanding classroom capacity and enhancing academic and extracurricular opportunities to support the district’s continued growth. If approved, the bond would allow the district to build a new high school, an indoor practice field, a new warehouse and maintenance bay, expand performing arts facilities, and make playground improvements at elementary sites. Neither the Edmond Public Schools nor Deer Creek Public Schools bond issue is planned to raise taxes for homeowners within the respective districts.
Voters must register by January 16 and request an absentee ballot by January 26. Early voting will take place on February 5 and 6, with Election Day scheduled for Tuesday, February 10. All registered voters who live within the Edmond Public Schools or Deer Creek Public Schools districts are eligible to vote at their regular precincts. To find more information on the EPS Bond Issue, please visit www.edmondschools.net/bond. To find more information on the Deer Creek Bond Issue, please visit www.deercreekschools.org/about-us/bonds/building-tomorrow-together-bond-2026.
Page 4 • January 15, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
The late-Toby Keith
Bill would honor late entertainer Senator Lisa Standridge, R-Norman, last week introduced Senate Bill 1475 to recognize the life and extraordinary achievements of country music superstar Toby Keith by naming a local bridge and future roadway developments in his honor. A world-renowned singer-songwriter, longtime Norman resident, successful businessman and proud patriot, Keith died in February 2024 at age 62 following an extended battle with stomach cancer. Before rising to international fame, Keith worked as a roughneck and played defensive end for the Oklahoma City Drillers. The Oklahoma native later broke into the country music scene, where he spent decades producing chart-topping albums and hit singles that cemented his legacy as one of the most influential artists in the genre. “Toby Keith remains the greatest country and western star Oklahoma has ever produced, without question,” Standridge said. “Beyond being a mega-superstar entertainer, Toby was a proud patriot who consistently supported our nation and its military, both in person and through his music. Toby is dearly missed, but his music and his impact on Oklahoma, the nation and the world will live on for generations.” SB 1475 would name the bridge over Interstate 35 at Indian Hills Road in Norman the Toby Keith Memorial Bridge. If, over time, a new bridge or interchange is built at the same location, it would be named the Toby Keith Memorial Interchange. As part of this legislation, Senator Standridge also intends to seek that the spur that will likely someday stretch west from the Indian Hills Road bridge over I-35 to connect with Interstate 44 be named the Toby Keith Parkway. The resulting bridge over the Canadian River on this spur near I-44 would be named the Should’ve Been a Cowboy Bridge, after Keith’s first hit single. Under SB 1475, Senator Standridge also seeks to establish a method for private citizens, including members of Keith’s family, to contribute to the creation of artwork on any new bridge or interchange on a new spur or highway going across at Indian Hills Road and I-35. Furthermore, the Keith family would have the ability to commission artwork to honor the legendary country singer. If private funds are raised, the appropriate state transportation agency would add the family-approved artwork to the new interchange. In envisioning what kind of artwork the Keith family might consider, Senator Standridge said: “I would defer completely to the family that has lived in my district for many years, but personally, I can picture a profile rendering of Toby in his hat, with a guitar in his hands, framed by an American flag.” SB 1475 will be eligible for consideration when the Legislature convenes on Feb. 2.
Toby Keith 1961 2024
Edmond Life & Leisure • January 15, 2026 • Page 5
Double lung transplant recipient grateful able to recover. In fact, we are among the few centers who have such a huge experience in transplanting people in their 70s and above like Nola.”
At 72 years old, Nola Harrison received a double lung transplant and a new lease on life. “I can finally breathe again thanks to the care team at INTEGRIS Health,” Nola says. This New Year, you can probably find Nola courtside cheering on her favorite team, the Oklahoma City Thunder. After all, she even attended game 7 of the Thunder’s championship clinching victory in 2024. But at the time, Nola’s lung condition had drastically deteriorated and she wondered whether she might be around to see the Thunder try to repeat their magical season this year.
How it started After years of managing asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, pulmonary hypertension and worsening lung disease, Nola’s lungs had swollen and nearly doubled in size. Each breath constricted her airways and restricted her daily life. She described the pain feeling like a strap tightening around her lungs, sitting heavy in her chest. Drawing a full breath became impossible. Nola, a fiercely independent woman who has worked as a licensed clinical social worker for over 25 years, now found herself unable to walk to the mailbox. Getting in and out of bed or the shower became an exhausting chore. Her condition worsened until she ended up hospitalized and put on a full flow of oxygen. At 72 years old, Nola thought there were limited options available to her. “I didn’t think at my age that a transplant was an option, but I was ready to find a solution,” Nola says.
Nola’s care team, from left: Stephanie McGee, Dr. Mark Rolfe, Mary Phillips, Ami Perry and Dr. Arslan Ahmad.
“No one at INTEGRIS Health blinked an eye at my age. Instead, my pulmonologists and surgeons provided support and encouragement.” A life-saving transplant For Nola’s care team, age was not a factor. That includes pulmonologists Arslan Ahmad, M.D., Mark Rolfe, M.D., and cardiothoracic surgeons Daniel Freno, M.D., and Jeffery Chad Johnson, M.D. who performed the transplant. “To be considered for lung transplant, patients have to meet a number of criteria to ensure the patient’s safety and that the operation will be a success,” says Ahmad. “Strictly speaking, advanced age alone should not be the reason to deny someone a lifesaving procedure. At Nola’s late stage of lung disease, her life was very much at risk if we did not perform the double lung
transplant.” Nola received a double lung transplant in August 2025. Her surgery and recovery have been a complete success. She’s breathing on her own with no complications and is back to walking one to two miles at least four days a week. Since the first lung transplant in 1990, INTEGRIS Health has successfully performed more than 500 transplants. INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital offers Oklahoma's only lung transplant program, serving patients of all ages across the region. “We have transplanted several older patients, including a 75-year-old and a 78-year-old,” Ahmad says. “It’s not a number like your age that matters as much as how physically strong you are, how mobile and active you are, because that will dictate how well a patient will take to surgery and be
Paying it forward Now on the other side of surgery, Nola isn’t taking her new lungs for granted. She provides education groups speaking with children and teens about the dangers of smoking and vaping, and the steps they can take to prevent chronic lung diseases. She participates in monthly support groups with other transplant patients. And she plans to celebrate her 73rd birthday this January in style, cheering on her favorite team with hope for a repeat. “What a blessing!” Nola says. “What a blessing to have this great care team advocate for my double transplant. I’ve been blessed with a care team that has made navigating treatment, rehabilitation and recovery as seamless as possible. I’m so grateful for them and for God guiding me on this path.”
Nola Harrison
Page 6 • January 15, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
(Editor’s Note: 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.) Dec. 22 Cameron Deshawn Edwards, 22 of Edmond. Pointing a firearm and assault and/or battery with a dangerous weapon. Koby Scott Johnson, 27 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol and possess CDS. Jefferson Enmanuel Sagatume-Calderon, 19 of Edmond. Four counts of failure to appear. Katina Yzitt Love, 55 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny. Krevon Martinez Garrett, 32 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear. Diante Shay Coburn, 46 of Edmond. Four counts of failure to appear. Daniel Paul Schrock, 42 of Edmond. No proof of insurance by operator and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Oluwarotimi Feyipitan Oladi Gbolade, 23 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny. Brea Jean Anne Parker, 36 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny. Dec. 23 Chad Michael Gent, 48 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication, indecent exposure and shoplifting – petit larceny. Edwin Santiago Canastuj Menchu, 25 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and felony DUI/APC. Dec. 24 Whitney Paige Cain, 39 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Matthews Blaine Richards, 38 of Noble. Public intoxication. Madison Victoria-Banks Simms, 32 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Adam Charles Brewer, 44 of Edmond. Operate (DUI/APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more. Nashyia Amyni McCain, 19 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant. Deborah Jean Leistner, 72 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny. Kamber Lane Hilliard, 35 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny and public intoxication. Marquez A. Kendrick 30 of Edmond. Failure to appear. Dec. 26 Joseph Michael Mendoza Sr., 48 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear. Derrick Ryan Williams, 33 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Juan Diego Gomez, 31 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and four counts of failure to appear. Dec. 27 Dirshaun Marquise Hardeman, 29 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Kailee Elisabeth Coleman, 20 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Stephen Pokun, 53 of Edmond. Child endangerment and felony DUI/APC. Kelsey Jana Efiom, 37 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Alex Deshay Nelson, 37 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Eddie Spoummonte Carr, 32 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor 1st & 2nd offense) larceny from merchandise from retailer, possess drug paraphernalia
Ban sought on Sharia Law for courts in Oklahoma
and possess CDS. Dec. 28 Vanessa Lee Huff, 24 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance, expired tag – over three months and driving while privilege is cancelled, suspended, denied or revoked. Matthew Dylan Combs, 28 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and public intoxication. Bo Michael Moschak, 18 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more. Kimball Elizabeth White, 38 of Norman. Possess CDS and possess drug paraphernalia. Skylar Brookes Rainwater, 39 of Midwest City. Possess CDS, possess drug paraphernalia, conspiracy, pattern of criminal offense and larceny from building and grand larceny (over $1,000). Benjamin Walter Stevens, 36 of Midwest City. (Lawful access but misappropriate) unauthorized use of vehicle or implement of husbandry, transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer, possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS, larceny from building – petit larceny, conspiracy, pattern of criminal offense and larceny from building – grand larceny (over $1,000). Stevie Lynn Anthony Love, 21 of Oklahoma City. Expired tag – over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Justin Earl Bryer, 53 of Forgan, Okla. (Misdemeanor 1st & 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer and possess CDS. Jase Tyler Keck, 20 homeless. Public intoxication. Dec. 29 Christian Wade Gallian, 31 of Edmond. Failure to appear. Billy Kalin Johnson, 40 of Edmond. Possess CDS and failure to appear. Michael Don Jones, 27 of Edmond. Expired tag – over three months, no proof of insurance by operator and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Dec. 30 Ryan Morgan House, 29 of Edmond. Two misdemeanor warrants. Adrian Leroy Reeves, 31 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant. Bobby Joe Whitaker Jr., 45 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Dec. 31 Kerrington E. Renfrow, 30 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear. Emily Paige Williams, 33 of Bethany. Possess drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and (Misdemeanor 1st and 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer. Ryan Seth Williams, 36 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Alyssa Maria Saenz, 32 of Edmond. Possess CDS, possess paraphernalia and (Misdemeanor 1st & 2nd offense) larceny of merchandise from retailer. Jan. 1, 2026 Joshua Lewis Cloud, 36 homeless. Public intoxication. Brandon James Lane, 29 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more. Josef Gerard Parson, 34 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS, (drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution, misdemeanor warrant and three counts of failure to appear. Alec Demonde Polk, 31 homeless. Non-assault resisting officer, misdemeanor warrant and trespassing after being warned. Jesse Anthony Tapia, 31 of Oklahoma City. Possession of CDS and larceny from building – grand
Rep. Gabe Woolley, R-Broken Arrow, has filed House Joint Resolution 1040, legislation that is intended to address concerns about the influence of Sharia Law and reaffirm the authority of the U.S. Constitution in Oklahoma. HJR1040 would place a constitutional amendment before voters that would prohibit the use of Sharia Law or any similar foreign legal code in Oklahoma courts. "To the argument of religious liberty, the truth is Sharia Law is a political ideology painted as a religion," Woolley said. "This is a Trojan horse. One group does not have permission to trample on the rights of others. We cannot jeopardize our constitutional rights by allowing a political ideology to infiltrate our nation and our state." Woolley said the resolution is rooted in protecting individual liberties guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. "Our Constitution protects women’s rights, free speech,
larceny (over $1,000) Christopher Lewis Fox, 52 of Edmond. Speeding (21-25 mph over), driving without proper/valid driver’s license and three counts of failure to appear. Jamicia Nicole Shanae Barker, 33 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and shoplifting – petit larceny. Laray Joseph Nelson, 41 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant, possession of drug paraphernalia, no proof of insurance by operator and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Jan. 2 Juwan Kijana Chapman, 30 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear. Nayland Ray Harris, 27 of Oklahoma City. Violation of protective order. James Eugene Peery, 54 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant. Kevin Lee Young, 48 of McAlester. Two felony warrants. Brittney Wren Gathright, 41 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance. Hayden Eugene Homesley, 21 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear. Patrick James Rhodes, 47 homeless. Failure to appear, trespassing after being warned and possession of drug paraphernalia. Angela Denise Gaston, 51 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer and dogs running at large, Jan. 3 Love Clarence Jones III, 35 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. James Marvin Lamb II, 44 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Isaiah Lamar Coulter, 34 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear. Jordan Oxlaj, 20 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Michael Cody Macomber, 35 of Grove. Possess CDS. Leah Latrice Thomas, 38 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Jan. 4 Joshua Leandre Clark, 37 of Edmond. Two felony warrants and a misdemeanor warrant. Erin Marie Cox, 45 of Oklahoma City. Felony DUI/APC. Barbara Joyce Pimental, 51 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to maintain compulsory insurance, possess CDS and driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked. Ethan Keahi Reyes, 18 of Edmond. Trespassing. Jaden Cory King, 18 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer. Steven Charles Bowen Jr., 29 homeless. Public intoxication. Antazia Gabrille Fraizer, 35 of Oklahoma City. Three misdemeanor warrants. Damico Tyron Washington, 36 of Oklahoma City. A misdemeanor warrant, felony warrant and failure to appear. Cheyenne Elizabeth Genova, 34 of Spencer. Unauthorized use of credit or debit card, conspiracy and burglary/theft from a motor vehicle. Terron Okera Jaque Reece, 33 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear, unauthorized use of credit or debit card, conspiracy and burglary/theft from a motor vehicle. Rito Morales, 38 of Oklahoma City. Unauthorized use of credit or debit card, conspiracy and burglary/theft from a motor vehicle. Matthew Blake Todd, 34 of Oklahoma City. Shoplifting – petit larceny Do not drink and drive
freedom of expression and many other fundamental freedoms," Woolley said. "Sharia Law does not protect or respect those rights. This foreign religious law and political structure directly contradicts our Constitution." In 2010, Oklahoma voters approved the Save Our State Amendment, which sought to ban Sharia Law, with nearly 70% support. The amendment was later struck down by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit and never took effect. Woolley said he believes now is the right time for the amendment to make a meaningful difference and ensure Oklahoma does not follow the path of other states. "With a new administration and 16 years having passed, I believe it is time to attempt this ban once again to protect our American way of life in Oklahoma," Woolley said. "We have seen what is happening in Dearborn, Michigan.”
Edmond Life & Leisure • January 15, 2026 • Page 7
Weekend calendar of events, Jan. 15-18 Weekend Calendar of Events Jan.15-18 ---- In the Gallery ---- Indoor Farmer’s Market ---- Edmond Patriot Market ---- Weekly Game Night ---- Karaoke Night ---- Beer + Yoga ---- Saturday Morning Music Sessions ---- Saturday Storytime ---- Watch Party ---- Coffee & Guitars ---- Book Swap ---- Edmond Ice Rink ---- Devon Ice Rink ---- International Finals Rodeo ---- The Round Barn Rendezvous ---- Downtown in December ---- Oklahoma City Boat & RV Show ---- Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show Extra Information
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; free; facebook.com
Sunday; 2 – 5 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Karaoke Night Location: The Gin Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; 7 p.m.; theginok.com
Edmond Ice Rink Location: Mitch Park Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7 – Sun, Feb 1; $10+; Mon – Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 10 p.m.; Sat: 12 – 10 p.m.; Sun: 12 – 9 p.m.; edmondicerink.com
Beer + Yoga Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; americansolera.com Weekly Game Night Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; 6 – 8:30 p.m.; visitedmondok.com Saturday Morning Music Sessions Location: Arcadia Round Barn Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Saturday; 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; visitedmondok.com Saturday Storytime Location: Best of Books Extra Info: Recurring weekly until Mar 7; Free; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; bestofbooksok.com
In the Gallery Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute Extra Info: First Thu of every month Gallery opening: 5 – 7 p.m.; Free; Gallery is open Mon – Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Free; Featuring Paint Pushers Group, “Interesting Places, Interesting Faces”; edmondfinearts.com
Watch Party Location: The Gin Extra Info: Recurring weekly every Thursday; Free; 7 p.m.; visitedmondok.com
Indoor Farmer’s Market Location: MAC in Mitch Park Extra Info: Sat, Nov 1 – Sat, Mar 28; Saturdays 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov
Coffee & Guitars Location: Edmond Music Extra Info: Every Saturday morning; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Edmond Patriot Market Location: 425 Fretz Ave, Edmond Extra Info: Recurring last Saturdays of the month;
Book Swap Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project Extra Info: Recurring every 2 months on the first
Devon Ice Rink Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens Extra Info: Fri, Nov 14 – Sun, Feb 1; Mon – Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 11 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; myriadgardens.org International Finals Rodeo Location: Lazy E Arena Extra Info: Thu, Jan 15 – Sun, Jan 18; $20; 7:30 – 10 p.m.; ipra-rodeo.com The Round Barn Rendezvous Location: Arcadia Round Barn Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free; 12 – 4 p.m.; arcadiaroundbarn.com Downtown in December Location: Downtown OKC Extra Info: Thu, Nov 13 – Sun, Feb 1, 2026; downtownindecember.com Downtown City Boat & RV Show Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: Fri, Jan 16 – Sun, Jan 18; Fri: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; okcboatandrvshow.com Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show Location: Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City Extra Info: Sat, Jan 17; 6 – 9 p.m.; thedinnerdetective.com
State Rep looks forward to upcoming legislative session By Rep. Erick Harris Oklahoma's next legislative session will be here before we know it. Throughout January, the Legislature will hold dozens of budget hearings from each appropriated state Harris agency. During this time, we'll hear how they spent their Fiscal Year 2026 budget, what their FY27 budget request is, and ask any questions we may have. All of these meetings are open to the public and may be livestreamed at okhouse.gov. I have the privilege of serving as vice chair of the Appropriations & Budget Judiciary Subcommittee, and our meeting is scheduled for Jan. 13. We'll hear budget requests from the Attorney General's Office, the Administrative Office of the Courts, and the Pardon and Parole Board, among other appropriated agencies. During the last week of January, House members will hear from the "Big Six" agencies, which are the six state agencies that receive the lion's share of the budget. We'll also hear from the Dept. of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, which faced an unexpected budget
shortfall in the middle of last year's session. The primary job of the Legislature is passing a balanced state budget, and I will review the proposed budgets closely. Earlier this month, the Board of Equalization met to provide their estimate for the total FY27 budget. The BOE estimated that the state will have around $12 billion to spend, which is a drop of about 5.6% from the previous year. This is largely due to recent tax cuts and the addition of new tax credits. However, our economy is in a healthy spot, as revenue is still going up. Oklahoma's total recurring revenue is up by about $338 million over the previous year. Again, this is merely an estimate. The BOE will finalize the FY27 budget amount in February. Governor Stitt will use the BOE's estimate to create his executive budget, which he'll propose in his eighth and final State of the State address. His annual speech marks the start of our legislative session, which begins Feb. 2, 2026. The bill filing deadline for session is Jan. 15. I am continuing to develop my bills and will file them in the next few weeks, and I look forward to sharing more details then. In other exciting news, a bill I passed in the spring takes effect in
the new year. As many of you know, pursuing adoption often comes with significant expenses, like legal fees and agency costs. Currently, the state allows qualifying Oklahomans to receive a tax credit of up to $4,000 for joint filers. Under House Bill 2610, any expenses incurred on or after Jan. 1, 2026, can be credited up to $6,000 for joint filers. For individual filers, the maximum tax credit amount will increase from $2,000 to $3,000. I hope that this update will help more families choose adoption and ease this serious financial load.
There's a lot to get done in the next month, but the responsibility of serving House District 39 is not one I take lightly. Thank you for your continued trust in me and, as always, please reach out with any questions or concerns. You may contact my office at 405-557-7342 or erick.harris@okhouse.gov. Rep. Erick Harris, a Republican, represents House District 39 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes portions of central and northern Edmond. His number is (405) 557-7342.
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Seasonal Affective Disorder may affect older adults more As daylight hours decrease during the fall and winter months, many older adults experience noticeable changes in mood, energy, and motivation. For some, these changes may be signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to reduced exposure to sunlight. Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs most often during the colder months and can interfere with sleep patterns, daily routines, and emotional wellbeing. While SAD can affect people of all ages, older adults may be particularly impacted due to a combination of factors, including chronic health conditions, limited mobility, retirement-related lifestyle changes, and reduced social interaction during winter. Shorter days and colder weather can naturally limit time spent outdoors and opportunities for social connection. For older adults, these changes can intensify feelings of sadness, fatigue, and isolation, which may be mistakenly dismissed as a normal part of aging. Common signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder in older adults include persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, low energy levels, changes in sleep or appetite, and difficulty concentrating. Because these symptoms can overlap with medical conditions or age-related changes, seasonal depression is often overlooked or left untreated in this population. Mental health professionals emphasize that depression is not a normal or inevitable part of aging. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a recognized and treatable condition, and early attention can significantly improve quality of life. Increasing exposure to natural light, maintaining consistent daily routines, staying physically active when possible, and fostering social connection can all support emotional well-being during the winter months. Healthcare providers can also help assess symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options. Family members, friends, and caregivers are encouraged to check in regularly with older adults during seasonal changes and to take mood or behavior changes seriously. Open conversations about mental health can help reduce stigma and ensure that older adults receive the support they need. Areawide Aging Agency’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for the needs of residents in LTC facilities serving Canadian, Cleveland, Logan, and Oklahoma Counties.
Just when should a senior consider not driving any longer?
When it’s time to stop driving? Driving is often associated with independence. The freedom that comes with being a licensed driver is often noted when newly minted motorists get a driver's license. But the sense of independence that comes with being a licensed driver affects all motorists, including seniors. Many seniors have spent half a century if not longer behind the wheel. That history undoubtedly makes it difficult for aging drivers to relinquish their keys should factors beyond their control begin to jeopardize their ability to drive safely and thus pose a threat to themselves and others. In such instances, family members may need to step in and make difficult decisions for aging relatives in relation to their driving. Before that decision is made, families can keep an eye out for various signs that a loved one might no longer be safe behind the wheel. · Frequent accidents or near misses: The National Institute on Aging notes that aging drivers who are in multiple vehicle crashes or near misses may no longer be safe to drive. Even drivers who are not at fault in a given accident may otherwise have been able to avoid being involved if not for diminished abilities behind the wheel. The NIA notes that slower reaction time and reflexes are two driving abilities that can diminish over time, and that can increase the chances aging drivers are in an accident. · Vehicle damage: Another sign an aging driver may be experiencing diminishing driving
abilities is the presence of new dents or scrapes on a car. The NIA notes that stiff joints and muscles and difficulty seeing are some common age-related health conditions that can affect a driver's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. When such problems begin to appear, drivers may experience difficulty navigating areas like parking lots and narrow streets that do not have ample shoulder space. The results can be vehicle damage like dents or scrapes. · Increase in traffic tickets: The NIA suggests two or more traffic tickets or warnings within the last two years is a sign drivers' skills are diminishing. · Anxiety about nighttime driving conditions and other motorists: Aging drivers who express anxiety about driving at night may no longer be safe to drive, especially after the sun goes down. Some aging drivers simply stop driving at night, which suggests they might be capable of driving safely during the day. In addition, drivers who have anxiety or make frequent complaints about other drivers' actions, including their speed and decision-making in regard to actions like lane changes, may be experiencing diminished abilities behind the wheel. There's no universal age when older drivers should stop driving. But families can keep an eye open for various signs suggesting aging drivers are no longer safe behind the wheel.
Edmond Life & Leisure • January 15, 2026 • Page 9
AAA: A good time to review insurance As Americans settle into the new year, AAA is encouraging them to add one more item to their list of resolutions: reviewing their insurance coverage. With life changes happening throughout the year — job shifts, moves, renovations, new drivers in the household — AAA says now is the ideal time to ensure policies still match current needs.2026 car and home .jpg “The start of a new year is the perfect moment to take a fresh look at your insurance,” said Dan Scroggins, Vice President, Personal Lines Insurance, AAA. “A lot can change in a year, and your policies should change right along with your life.” Auto Insurance: Adjust for New Driving Habits AAA recommends that motorists reassess how much they’re driving. With many people working from home or entering retirement, changes in mileage may qualify them for lower rates. Households with students leaving for college or teens gaining driving privileges should also update their policies. Drivers with older vehicles may want to review whether collision or comprehensive coverage is still cost-effective. AAA also encourages taking a defensive driving course, which can offer both safety benefits and potential premium savings. Home & Renters Insurance: Update Inventories and Renovation Details Homeowners and renters are urged to update their home inventories — either by listing valuables or recording a simple smartphone walkthrough, especially after major purchases or home upgrades. Renovations such as finished basements or updated bathrooms can change the value of a home and the coverage needed. AAA reminds consumers that insurance is based on the cost to rebuild, not the home’s market value. Life Insurance: Healthy Habits Can Save Money Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeing a doctor regularly are not only good for long-term wellness, but they may also help lower life-insurance rates. Because premiums are based partly on age and overall health, younger and healthier applicants often receive better options. AAA advises reviewing beneficiaries annually and ensuring important documents are stored securely and shared with a trusted contact.
Don’t be surprised later. Find out now what your policy covers.
Mind the Gaps: Consider More Coverage A standard homeowners policy leaves several costly gaps in coverage, including water backup, service line failures, and mold remediation, issues that can lead to major unexpected expenses. Adding the appropriate endorsements ensures homeowners are protected from these common but often overlooked risks. Flood insurance, which is not included in standard homeowners policies, may be essential for people living near water or in areas prone to heavy rainfall, even if not in a designated high-risk flood zone. Umbrella insurance, which is extended liability coverage beyond home and auto policies, can also offer added financial protection at an affordable cost.
For those driving drunk
Lankford wants to beef up laws affecting illegal aliens US Senators James Lankford (ROK), John Cornyn (R-TX), and colleagues today introduced the Stop Illegal Aliens Drunk Driving Act, which would strengthen current immigration laws to ensure aliens who drive drunk and kill or seriously maim someone can be arrested, detained, and removed from the United States as aggravated felons and also permanently bar them from obtaining an immigration status like asylum or holding a Green Card. “People who are not legally present in this country should be removed, especially if they have been convicted of driving under the influence. Federal law should be clear that no illegal alien should ever have a second DUI conviction,” said Lankford. “Zero mercy should be shown to illegal aliens who not only defy our laws by unlawfully entering the country but also take it a step further to drive drunk, threatening American lives,” said Cornyn. “By strengthening current immigration law to hold these offenders accountable, our bill sends a clear message: If you enter the country illegally and harm innocent citizens, we will find you, we will punish you, and we will make sure you never step foot on American soil again.”
Background: Lankford and Cornyn were joined by Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Ted Budd (R-NC), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Kennedy (R-LA), Eric Schmitt (RMO), and Markwayne Mullin (ROK). For decades, illegal alien drunk drivers have taken innocent American lives on our roadways. While current law requires such aliens be removed from the United States if convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated or impaired (DWI), there are many cases of the criminal illegal aliens reentering the interior and committing additional DUI and DWI crimes. The Stop Illegal Aliens Drunk Driving Act would help put a stop to this crisis and hold criminal illegal aliens accountable by making make DWIs and DUIs that result in death or serious bodily injury of another individual an aggravated felony under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), thus allowing the criminal alien offenders to be deported and precluding them from getting immigration status, including asylum and Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status.
Travel & Pet Insurance: Protect What You Love For frequent travelers, travel insurance can provide reimbursement for cancellations and coverage for medical emergencies or evacuations during trips. Pet owners may also benefit from pet insurance, which helps offset the cost of veterinary care in case of illness or injury. “No one wants to think about worst-case scenarios but taking an hour to review your insurance at the start of the year can make a huge difference,” Scroggins said. “It helps ensure you’re protected and that you’re not overpaying for coverage you don’t need.”
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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side Language keeps evolving Proposed data centers Every now and then someone will ask me how my book writing career is going. I have an independent publisher that has me under contract to ghostwrite stories of the Steve Gust Old West. I reached a happy milestone over the holiday. I have completed 40 books in the genre. There has been a learning curve to this kind of work. One of those is recognizing that certain words and phrases we use today were not commonplace in the 19th century. In fact some of them didn’t exist. In my last book, the antagonist is a con man. I based the character on a real life criminal. Not too long before I turned the book in — I checked on the word “scam.” To my surprise, that word was not in mass use until 1963. That’s a long time after the Old West was somewhat tamed. So I replaced the word with fraud and cheat. That’s not an isolated incident. I remember reading a western and the
writer noted the burning of a ghost town – by the use of Molotov cocktails. That term didn’t come into being until the World War II period. The Soviet politician, Molotov, wasn’t even born during the western era. And it’s not just in books. I’ve seen Old West movies and television shows that mention Oklahoma City as a destination. There’s one problem. Oklahoma City didn’t exist until 1889. . The real issue is that our language continues to evolve. I remember seeing Pat Sajak on television once wondering what happened to the term “trousers” for pants. He’s right. It’s an old fashioned word. But think back to your college years. You probably had to read some books by William Shakespeare. Those pages are hard to read. Who knows? Maybe in 2414, someone will discover this column and not understand it at all. It could happen. (Steve Gust may be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com)
have some concerned Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow, has filed legislation with the intent to protect Oklahomans from having to pay increased utility rates by ensuring data centers pay their share of infrastructure costs as they expand across the state. House Bill 2992, titled the Data Center Consumer Ratepayer Protection Act of 2026, would require data centers to pay their share of infrastructure costs associated with their significant electricity demands. While the bill's language is still being finalized, it is being drafted to prevent those costs from being passed on to residential, industrial and small-business ratepayers through higher utility rates. "With more than a dozen potential new data centers planning to locate in Oklahoma that we are aware of at this point, we have to make sure everyday Oklahomans are not stuck paying the price of the electricity use due to these new data centers being built," Boles said. "This bill is about protecting ratepayers and making sure massive energy users cover the infrastructure
needed to support their operations instead of shifting that burden onto families and small businesses." Data centers are specialized facilities that store, process and manage digital information. Often referred to as the home of the internet, they house servers, networking equipment and electrical systems that allow everything from cloud storage to video streaming and online banking to navigation apps and email to function in real time. These facilities are connected by fiber-optic cables across the globe and require enormous amounts of electricity to operate. According to the Pew Research Center, a typical AI-focused hyperscale data center can consume as much electricity each year as 100,000 households. Even larger facilities currently under construction are expected to use multiple times that amount. "As these facilities grow, we, as the legislature, must put guardrails in place so Oklahomans are not the ones footing the bill for new substations, transmission lines and other infrastructure upgrades," Boles said. "This legislation ensures fairness and keeps utility rates from climbing for our Oklahoma ratepayers because of the unprecedented increased demand of new electrical generation needed due to the AI data centers. I look forward to working to ensure we have proper safeguards and protections in place for our Oklahoma ratepayers." The Data Center Consumer Ratepayer Protection Act of 2026 will be eligible for consideration when the Legislature convenes for the Second Regular Session on Feb. 2. Rep. Boles serves as the Oklahoma House of Representatives Chair of the Energy & Natural Resources Oversight Committee.
A typical AI-focused hyperscale data center can consume as much electricity each year as 100,000 households.
Mullin welcomes rural health care funding By. Sen. Markwayne Mullin In December, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the amounts awarded to states through their historic $50 billion investment in rural health care. Included in the transformational Working Families Tax Cut Act passed by Senate Republicans and signed into law last year, the Rural Health Transformation Program will allow communities across country to improve health care outcomes by modernizing care delivery and expanding access to rural health care services. Oklahoma has been awarded a massive $223,476,949 for 2026– the first award for the state in the 5-year program. U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, applauded the initiative and monumental win for Oklahoma: “I grew up in rural Oklahoma and the rural health care system. Rural hospitals and health care providers are the backbone of this nation, and we must continue to support these entities to ensure
that patients have access to high quality health care services,” said Senator Mullin. “Through the Working Families Tax Cut Act, Senate Republicans secured the largest federal investment in rural health care in American HISTORY. This initiative will significantly strengthen our system and boost rural clinics and hospitals across the state.” Background: The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s
Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compli-
ments 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.
plan to build a lasting health ecosystem across Rural Oklahoma (as seen on pg. 57): Innovating the care model: This initiative seeks to improve healthcare access and outcomes through modernized care delivery (Make Rural America Healthy Again, Technology Innovation). Moving upstream: This initiative seeks to promote preventive healthcare and address root causes of disease through innovative care delivery and technology (Make Rural America Healthy Again, Innovative Care, Technology Innovation). Facilitating regional collaboration: This initiative seeks to strengthen provider infrastructure and enhance local and regional partnerships (Sustainable Access, Innovative Care). Shifting to value: This initiative seeks to improve outcomes and financial sustainability through value-based care models (Sustainable Access, Innovative Care). Growing the next generation of rural talent: This initiative seeks to improve the pool of rural talent and subsequent healthcare access (Workforce Development). Building health data utility: This initiative seeks to improve efficient, data-driven care delivery (Technology Innovation). OSDH attests to proposing at least 3 approved uses of funds, as stipulated by the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), across the initiatives above.
Edmond Life & Leisure • January 15, 2026 • Page 11
The Mongolian-style yurt has a spacious interior with all the comforts of a conventional hotel room.
Travel treasures large & small Various stops in Arkansas make for a perfect weekend getaway By Elaine Warner Arkansas is a state full of surprises and Jack and I found several on our spring road trip. Who would expect a soupςon of Switzerland in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. That’s what we found near the little town of Altus. After the Civil War, the railroads began expanding into more western areas of the country. Finally Elaine there was a good way to transport Arkansas coal to eastern markets. Now more workers were needed. The Little Rock-Fort Smith Railroad Company purchased many acres of land and offered parcels at bargain prices to immigrants who would come and settle in the area. Europeans, particularly from Germany and Switzerland were willing to make the journey. Johann and Catherine Wiedekehr were among those who chose to leave their home in Switzerland in the early 1880s. The couple and their two small children undertook a harrowing journey – six weeks at sea followed by several days by train – before reaching the stop at Altus. Their goal was the top of Saint Mary’s Mountain where Father Zisweiler had founded a small German-speaking Catholic parish. The family lived with the priest while they purchased land for themselves and then began building a simple log home. Johann started by digging a wine cellar and lining it with stone (now on the National Register of Historic Places.) The house was built atop the cellar. Then he began planting grape vines. As he waited for the vines to mature, he made wine from wild blackberries, persimmons and native grapes. His wine became even more popular as the grapes matured. Johann and Katharina ultimately had seven living children. Today a great-grandson, Dennis Weidekehr, is the president of the family-owned corporation and his cousin Adam – a fifth-generation, great-great grandson of Johann – is the winemaker. Wiedekehr Winery is the oldest, continually-producing winery in the state. They stayed in production even through Prohibition by producing wine for Catholic churches. There are accommodations in the town of Altus
Mary Grace and the other waitresses at the Weinkeller Restaurant wear dirndls patterned after the traditional dress in Alpine Germanspeaking regions.
but when I spoke to Dennis before going, he mentioned that he had a yurt listed on Airbnb. That sounded interesting – and affordable – and it was. We arrived in mid-afternoon and were pleasantly surprised at the spaciousness of the tent-like structure. Outside there was a fire pit and chairs and table and nothing but scenery all around. We unloaded and got back in the car for the short drive to the winery. In the tasting room, the first thing we noticed was an ornately carved backbar. The middle section, which came from Salerno, Italy, was made in 1850 from black walnut. We sampled a variety of wines from a Johannisberg Riesling to a Cabernet Sauvignon. I don’t have
A chalet-style entrance takes guests into the restaurant in the original wine cellar
a sophisticated palate – friends tease me saying I like soda pop wines. They’re right and the sweet, white, carbonated Weinfest Wine was just my style. Following our tasting – and purchasing – we headed for the restaurant, which is located in the original wine cellar. The cellar was built into the side of a hill. The entrance is reminiscent of Swiss chalet. Inside the stone walls and dark, heavy beams, along with the wooden tables and carved-back chairs, give a real Old World feel to the dining room. The menu featured several selections with Swiss/German heritage. The Swiss onion soup is a bit thicker than the French version and the cheese is on the bottom with the soup and onions on top. Other specialties include a Swiss Sausage Feast with a choice of knackwurst, bratwurst or smoked sausage garnished with relish, Dusseldorf mustard and horseradish. A side of sauerkraut is an excellent suggestion. Offerings cross borders with Back Hendel Vienna, boned chicken breasts rolled in bread crumbs and herbs, fried and topped with a special Béarnaise sauce. The Quiche Lorraine is filled with Swiss cheese, egg, whipped cream custard, onions and bacon. Credit is given to the French for the original, but French Swiss claim to have perfected it. Jack had a hankering for steak, so we ordered the Filet Mignon Weinkeller. The steak was topped with Swiss Béarnaise sauce and Swiss butter and served with green beans and German fried potatoes. We shared his entrée and capped our meal with Swiss apple strudel with vanilla ice cream. Meanwhile back at the yurt – although the outside is fabric, the inside is well-insulated. A sky-light in the ceiling would have given us a good view of the stars – but a storm blew in and mostly what we saw was the lightning. The rain was pelting on the roof, sounding like handfuls of nuts and bolts spinning in a clothes dryer. We, however, were warm and snug in our little nest. Doing the research on this article made me wish we’d taken more time in the area. I would like to go back and visit St. Mary’s Church and Subiaco Abbey. Father Zisweiler was associated with St. Mary’s Church, founded in 1879. The original church is gone. The existing church was built in Romanesque style in 1901-1902. Murals painted in 1915 and 1916 have been restored. The church is just north of Altus. Subiaco Abbey is about a 45-minute drive from the winery – an around-Robin Hood’s-barn sort of route, due to the terrain. Founded in 1877 by three Benedictine monks, the abbey was established to serve German and Swiss immigrants to the area. Today there are 31 monks at the abbey. There is also a school for boys run by the church. Visitors are welcome to attend the daily services with the monks. An attractive garden and gazebo provide a fine setting for enjoying nature. Visitors are asked to contact the abbey before visiting. The history of the German/Swiss community is bound up with the church and priory. I’m sorry we missed it. Arkansas is full of travel treasures large and small. Weidekehr Winery is one of them. The drive takes about four-and-a-half hours – just right for a weekend getaway.
Swiss béarnaise sauce and Swiss butter top a gererous filet mignon at the Weinkeller Restaurant.
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Engagement, Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.
Playdate & Create fosters connection and creativity for kids age 2-4 and their grown-ups.
Museum has ‘Playdate & Create’ The Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) announced last week the return of Playdate & Create, a program designed for children ages 2 through 4 and offered from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on the fourth Saturday of every month. Each session of Playdate & Create includes themed gallery exploration, story time, and a hands-on art-making activity. Registrations for February, March, April, and May sessions are now open. Tickets to Playdate & Create are $20 for non-members and $10 for members, which includes registration for one child and two adults, as well as gallery access. Space is limited, and advanced registration is required. “Last year we brought back Babies at the Museum, a beloved program that’s been very successful since its return,” said Bryon Chambers, Director of Education and Visitor Experience. “Playdate & Create offers a setting for slightly older children and their grown-ups to foster connection through creativity.” Attendees will begin the morning in OKCMOA’s studio classrooms, where children can explore age-appropriate toys and activities while
adults can enjoy coffee and conversation. Attendees will then make their way to the galleries, where, through prompts and stories, Museum staff will help spark curiosity, observation, and connection with the art on view. Back in the classrooms, children, with help from their grown-ups, will create artwork using materials and techniques designed for early learners, a hands-on activity that nurtures fine motor skills, creativity, and imagination. Sessions will focus on works in the exhibitions Paul Reed: A Retrospective and Dale Chihuly: The Oklahoma Collection, as well as the second-floor permanent collection galleries. The following themes will accompany the upcoming Playdate & Create sessions: March 28 | Wheels in Motion April 12 | Floral Impressions May 23 | Colors and Light
Obituary notice
Jack Dwayne Fisher
April’s Playdate & Create program has been moved to the second Sunday to align with OKCMOA’s seventh annual Art in Bloom. More information on registration and individual sessions can be found at okcmoa.com/playdate.
Girl Scout cookie sale nears The 2026 Girl Scout Cookie program officially starts this month, and there’s a new cookie in town, according to Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma. Exploremores, a rocky-road ice cream–inspired sandwich cookie filled with the flavors of chocolate, marshmallow and toasted almond–flavored crème will be available alongside Thin Mints and other traditional Girl Scout Cookies. Sale dates vary nationally; in Oklahoma, digital cookie sales begin Jan. 6, when consumers can pre-order their favorite cookie flavors online through a local Girl Scout or troop Cookie link to have the sweet treats shipped to their door or hand-delivered. Girls will develop their marketing, business and people skills through door-to-door sales and order deliveries, which begin Jan. 31. Booth sales begin Feb. 7. Each package of Girl Scout Cookies retails
for $6, and the entire sale concludes on March 22. “Each year, some 2,000 Girl Scouts in the GSWESTOK Council run their own cookie business, developing essential entrepreneurial and life skills such as goal setting, decision making, money management and leadership,” said Stacy McNeiland, CEO of Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma. “When cookie enthusiasts purchase a box of cookies they are directly benefiting local Girl Scouts, creating opportunities for them to learn, grow and discover their authentic selves through dozens of hands-on experiences and activities like leadership development, camp and STEAM events.” GSWESTOK is recognized as one of the top councils nationwide for the amount of cookie proceeds reinvested in local troops. To find cookies in your area and learn more about the Girl Scout Cookie program, visit GirlScoutCookiesNearMe.org.
Jack Dwayne Fisher went to be with the Lord on January 3, 2026. Jack was born in Guthrie, Oklahoma on April 25th, 1951. He grew up in Cresent Oklahoma where he was a three sport star athlete playing quarterback, shooting guard, and catcher for the Tigers. Jack graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and went on to graduate from Oklahoma City University Law School. After clerking for Judge Homer Smith and practicing with Bay, Hamilton, Renegar, and Lees for a year, he started his own law practice with his wife Karen who was a paralegal. Jack was an amazing criminal attorney and became one of the first attorneys to be certified in Oklahoma to handle Federal Habeas Corpus cases. He was a central figure in using DNA to overturn the wrongly convicted and the exposure of corruption within the Oklahoma Crime Lab and District Attorney’s office.
Jack was strong enough to address and confront life’s challenges head on. In 1991 he made a call to the bar association and within minutes he was connected to an attorney that picked him up and took him to an AA meeting at the Western Club. Jack credits AA for having saved his life and he was dedicated to its principles, which he went on to share with many others over more than 33 years. Outside of his law practice, Jack was an avid Sooners and Atlanta Braves fan. He loved watching his kids and grandkids play any sport. He helped teach them golf, tennis, baseball, and football. He loved to play cards, dominoes, shoot pool, or anything else that might be competitive. Jack had a great, often self-deprecating sense of humor. He was loved and will be missed. Jack is survived by his wife, Karen Fisher, his four children – Joe Fisher (Penny), Shawna Vente (Robert), Vance Fisher (Jeanine), and Wells Fisher (Tara), thirteen grandchildren – Harrison Fisher (Natalie), Lauryl O’Brien (Trace), Ashley Vente, Cade Vente, Sadie Vente, Emma Vente, Olivia Vente, Tristan Fisher (Sydney), Colton Fisher, Mia Fisher (Mikey), Tas Fisher, Jude Fisher, and Zeppelin Fisher, and 8 great-grandchildren.
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Movie review of ‘Is This Thing On?’
Film not bad but doesn’t hit its potential By George Gust It’s a rarified air to be a leading man in Hollywood and an accomplished Director to boot. Bradley Cooper continues to have a chip on his shoulder to become a prominent director as well as an above the title star, like his one-time co-star Clint Eastwood (“The Mule”). His latest film “Is This Thing On?” is at once a departure from the scale of the larger than life first two directorial efforts “A Star is Born” and “Maestro” and a continuation of the dramatic performancedriven character dramas. As their marriage unravels, Alex (Will Arnett) faces middle age and divorce, seeking new purpose in the New York comedy scene. Meanwhile, his wife Tess (Laura Dern) confronts sacrifices made for their family, forcing them to navigate co-parenting and identities “Is This Thing On?” is a film of clear ambitions and uneven returns. The movie opens with a couple already unraveling, a structural choice that immediately asks too much of the audience, instead of building toward a fracture, the film asks us to accept it and then unravel their relationship in bits and pieces. That story decision produces a movie that switches harshly be-
Answers on Page 19
tween sharp observation and too man repetitive melodramatic beats, with the second half circling the same arguments as the momentum flags. Where the film most often succeeds is in its performances. Will Arnett delivers a surprisingly vulnerable lead, finding small, honest beats in a character who uses the stage to work through his emotional problems. Proving the old idiom “men will do anything to avoid going to therapy.” Laura Dern provides a steady, affecting counterweight to Arnett, and Bradley Cooper’s own supporting turns lift scenes with welltimed comic relief in a film that should have
been rich in comedic bits. Also notable was the cameo performance from NFL quarterback Peyton Manning that you would expect to be, Manning shows up only for you to recognize him, but in this movie, he actually creates a character and has a surprising amount of screen presence. These performances give the movie its heart and when they connect, the film feels livedin and relatable Overall, “Is This Thing On?” is worth seeing for the acting and a handful of striking sequences, and it confirms Cooper’s strengths as a director of actors. But its tonal drift and repetitive second half keep it from being the fully realized work its cast and premise promise. It’s a film of promise rather than completion rewarding in at times, but not as successful as it could have been. “Is This Thing On?” is rated R for language throughout, sexual references and some drug use. 3 out of 5 stars. (Contact George Gust for comment about this movie, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)
Will Arnett stars and shares the writing duties with director and co-star Bradley Cooper in the character driven comedy drama "Is This Thing On?"
Voter deadline Friday January 16, 2026 is the last day to apply for voter registration to be eligible to vote in the February 10, 2026 School and Municipal Primary Elections. Persons who are United States citizens, residents of Oklahoma and at least 18 years old may apply to become registered voters. Persons who have never been registered to vote before or who are not currently registered in the county of their residence and persons who are registered but need to change their registration information may apply to register or to change their name, address or political affiliation by filling out and mailing an Oklahoma Voter Registration Application form in time for it to be postmarked no later than midnight Friday, January 16, 2026. Applications postmarked after that time will still be accepted and processed, but the application will not be approved until after February 10, 2026. The County Election Board will respond in writing to each person who applies for voter registration.
Crossword Puzzle DOWN 1. Honda CR-X del ____ 2. *Michelle ____, most decorated U.S. figure skater ACROSS 3. Enthusiastic about 1. Pinch to save 4. Part of MGM 6. Brownie 5. From the 1930s, e.g. 9. Lady, in Madrid 6. Abounding with certain trees 13. Proprietor 7. Bruce ____ of karate fame 14. Romanian money 8. Fundus, pl. 15. Iraqi money 9. Aeneas' lover 16. Coffee shop order 10. "Don't bet ____ ____!" 17. *Before 1998 only they 11. Lye formula played Olympic hockey 18. Spring to mind" or "Spring 12. A in "M*A*S*H" 15. Do like Tarantino into action," e.g. 19. *Most decorated country in 20. Pleasant smell 22. Schiller's "____ to Joy" Winter Olympics 24. Real ____ of Seville 21. *____ of Hamill Camel 25. *Margot Robbie's "olympic" fame role (2017) 23. *How Olympic Athletes from Russia were designated in 26. "For better or worse"? 27. GEICO's mascot 2018, acr. 29. *Olympic toboggan 24. Assistant 31. Speech defect 25. ____ of war 32. Place for worship 28. Sushi wrapped in nori 30. Oblong cream puff 35. Singles 37. Manure, e.g. 39. Soil for cultivation 40. Bon Jovi hit "Have a ____ day" 41. "Encore!" 43. Don't go 44. Bumpkin 46. Poet Pound's first name 47. Rodeo Drive tree 48. Sense of alienation and isolation 50. Similar 52. Toast option 53. *Misha, 1980 Russian Olympics Mascot was one 55. Samuel Butler: "Spare the ___ and spoil the child" 57. *____ Shiffrin, most decorated U.S. alpine skier 61. *Overall Olympic curling medal leader 64. Bikini ____ in the Marshall Islands 65. Zodiac sign 67. Pasture 69. Boundary lines 70. Government Printing Office 71. Rocky ridge 72. Singer Tori 73. Farm layer 74. *1964 and 1976 mountainous Olympic location STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Winter Olympics
33. *2026 Winter Olympics location 34. Mother Goose creation 36. Give an impression 38. Michael Douglas' dad 42. Nigerian money 45. Slanderous statements 49. Snake-like fish 51. Dairy choice 54. Frustration, in a comic book 56. Grocery store section 57. Cass Elliot, a.k.a. ____ Cass 58. Big-ticket ____ 59. Japanese zither 60. Saloon selections 61. Colloquial "Follow me!" 62. Widely hunted ruminant 63. Kind of sax 66. King Kong or Donkey Kong, e.g. 68. Penn.'s neighbor
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Edmond Life & Leisure • January 15, 2026 • Page 15
Tickets on sale for 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in metro Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 International Canoe Federation (ICF) Canoe Slalom World Championships, set for July 20–25, 2026, at RIVERSPORT OKC. The six-day event will feature more than 300 elite athletes from approximately 50 countries competing for world championship titles in canoe slalom (C1), kayak slalom (K1) and kayak cross on the worldclass whitewater course. “This is an incredible opportunity for fans in North America to see the world’s best paddlers compete on an Olympic-caliber course,” said Chris Sorensen, executive director for RIVERSPORT OKC. “With the city hosting the canoe slalom venue for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, this event will be a thrilling preview of Olympic-level competition.” Fans who attend will not only witness intense international competition but also enjoy daily entertainment and a variety of food and beverage options throughout the event. A special opening ceremony is also planned for Saturday, July 18. Tickets, including single-day and multi-day passes, are available now through the official event website at okc2026.com. Spectators are encouraged to purchase early as demand is expected to be high. The 2026 championships mark the first time in more than a decade that the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships will be held in North America, underscoring Oklahoma City’s growing reputation as a premier destination for international watersports. For more information on tickets, event schedules and spectator guidelines, visit okc2026.com or follow updates on social media.
The world canoe competition heads to OKC this summer.
Page 18 • January 15, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Famed Golfer to make appearance “It is an honor to recognize Talor Gooch for our Native Son Award and have him join us for our Annual Banquet this year” said Elaine Lyons, South Oklahoma City Chamber President. Other honors to be presented at the Banquet include 2025 “Volunteer of the Year,” “Ambassador of the Year,” “MetroEDGE Rising Star,” and “Citizen of the Year.” This annual event will be at The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Talor Gooch is a professional golfer competing on the LIV Golf League, where he was named the 2023 Player of the Year following one of the most dominant seasons in league history. He was born in Midwest City.
Family Circus
Beetle Baily
Hi and Lois
Blondie
Shoe
Hägar the Horrible
Zits
Edmond Life & Leisure • January 15, 2026 • Page 19
For 2026 consider taking brisk walks With the New Year, many people make resolutions to lose weight. It’s easy to think you need a gym membership or complicated equipment to see real results, but that’s not true! Don’t overlook the benefits of a brisk walk in meeting your health goals for the year.
Support your mental well-being with a brisk walk. The connection between physical activity and mental health is well established, and walking is a great example. A brisk walk can be a powerful tool for managing stress and improving your mood.
The top health benefits of brisk walking From strengthening your heart to clearing your mind, this simple activity provides a wide range of benefits that support both your physical and mental well-being. Brisk walking strengthens your heart by improving cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart disease. It helps clear your mind and reduce stress, contributing to better mental health. Regular brisk walking supports weight management by burning calories and boosting metabolism. It enhances lung capacity and improves overall respiratory health. Walking at a brisk pace can improve joint health and reduce the risk of arthritis by promoting better mobility. You can strengthen your heart muscle with a routine of brisk walking. As a cardiovascular exercise, it improves circulation, helps manage blood pressure and lowers your risk of developing heart disease. Walking helps your heart become more efficient with each pump. Regular walkers often have lower resting heart rates and lower bad cholesterol levels. This exercise can improve blood sugar levels and help prevent or manage diabetes.
Walking releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. It provides an opportunity to clear your head and reduce feelings of anxiety. Studies show that regular walking can help combat symptoms of depression. If weight management is one of your goals, brisk walking is an excellent exercise choice. It helps you burn calories and can boost your metab-
“WHEN YOU ARE KIND TO OTHERS, IT NOT ONLY CHANGES YOU, IT CHANGES THE WORLD” - HAROLD KUSHNER
olism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. A 30-minute brisk walk can help you burn around 200 calories. Walking has been shown to curb cravings for sugary foods. It’s a sustainable form of exercise that’s easy on the joints. Improved joint health is another great benefit of brisk walking. Since it’s a low-impact activity, it’s gentle on your joints. It helps lubricate them and strengthens the surrounding muscles, which can reduce stiffness and improve mobility over time. Walking increases blood flow to cartilage. It’s especially beneficial for individuals with arthritis as it reduces joint pain.
Page 20 • January 15, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure