Edmond Life and Leisure - January 22, 2026

In This Issue

Focus on Education 2026

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25

From the Publisher

Finance, HR and Legal not in new city building

This one comes as a surprise to me folks. But our city finance department, legal department and Human Resources, are not located in the new City of Edmond Municipal building alongside our city manager. I will take the blame for not asking the question, “What is going to be located in the new offices”? Honestly, it never occurred to me that the new building, at a cost of around $28 million, would not house essential departments so important to and work closely with the city manager’s office. You just must wonder what the heck somebody was thinking?

have presented a clear and present danger. I was saved by a nice lady who heard the commotion and she came around the corner from the information desk and took the papers and promised she would get them to his office. Hopefully, the respectable citizens of Edmond can have an easier time of it getting in. Just another silly design suggestion but can we put the information desk behind bullet proof glass and move it closer to the front if the rental police are not going to provide any services?

Please do not blame the new city manager, AJ Krieger. He was as shocked as anyone to find out that these essential services were not in the same building as his offices. One city council member asked him if it was important and his answer was, “Only if you expect me to keep track of the city’s finances.” E-mail is great but a CEO of a big operation such as an entire city needs to be able to walk down the hall and talk to folks in the finance department. Is it just me or is that a given?

You cannot blame the current city council. The building was planned long before, most of them were in office but like me, they may have assumed that key services like finance, legal and HR would be in the building. So far, I cannot get anyone to admit to who made that decision. Without knowing who made such a decision or why, I have to declare it irresponsible, and a fitting example of how our city needs better direction.

The genius that made the decision put Urban Forestry into the new building. Urban Forestry does an excellent job and is an important department as well but they, along with every other department in city government, depend on what happens in finance. I would like to envision forestry being in a hut somewhere in the woods at Arcadia Lake so they could study the urban forest. At noon, every day they would all hold hands and sing “kum by yah.”

Every city council member and the mayor have an office in the new building I am told. In the old city building the mayor had a small ceremonial office but that was it. Why would part-time employees of the city need an office? There are plenty of meeting rooms where they can meet citizens.

Last time I tried to get into the building I had to leave. The rental police, we do not use Edmond police officers but instead hire private security, at the front wanted me to go through the metal detector right inside the front door. They were crouching behind the bullet proof glass. I guess my reputation proceeded me. I have two metal knees so I would have to get patted down and that was not going to happen. I was trying to deliver some papers to the city manager, but when I asked the rental police if they would get them to his office they said, “No.” Guess it would

Hope is not lost folks. Krieger spoke to the Edmond Chamber group about changing things not just with offices located in the new building but also becoming more service oriented. He seems to be an incredibly sharp guy with some great ideas and several times during his talk, he emphasized that being of service as a city is important. I like that and am optimistic about the work he is going to do and the culture change that will take place. He reminds me of another city manager, Larry Stevens, who always told me that he and city staff need to view residents as customers.

Another department where there is fresh air is with our Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA). I met with the new director of EEDA, Heather McDowell, and Edmond City Council member Phil Fraim. Both are excited about the prospects in the pipeline. Economic development is a complicated process. Edmond will never be able to offer giant incentive packages. We must work hard at finding our niche and companies that are a good fit for Edmond. It needs to include a good amount of retail that keeps people shopping at home. McDowell has good experience and should do well.

We are on track with our city administration and manager of the EEDA. What I worry about is city council. Folks, they are so rude to developers at times. The phrase I love to hate these days from city council members is, “We are going to be watching you.” I heard a council member say this to an experienced developer a few months ago presenting a plan that met all the requirements. The council approved his project, but one member had to tack on that warning. It was an insult to a developer of integrity and had never given any reason for our city council to think he

would not keep his word. Heck, he is on video for all eternity with his promises.

Last week a developer came before council with a letter signed by previous council saying if you follow these rules, you can build your project. His project was for workplace housing near University of Central Oklahoma I believe. Three of the council members spent an hour trying to redesign the project, suggesting he angle the building in a different direction or add another floor to a different building. The poor guy must have been stunned at what was happening. Fraim was the only councilmember that made sense. He questioned why the council was trying to redesign the building when they had a signed agreement. Developers know each other. How big of a hit is our reputation going to take when he tells his fellow developers about his experience.

What our elected officials need to understand is that the days of Edmond being a place that developers all want to come to are over. Twenty-five years ago, when projects in Oklahoma City had few places to grow, Edmond was on their radar. Now they have midtown, Bricktown, the plaza, deep duce and dozens of places in northwest OKC. Any developer of retail or housing only has so much capital to deploy. If our council continues to build a reputation for being difficult to deal with, good projects will go elsewhere.

The battle cry of previous councils has been that we want quality projects, but our reputation is that we are difficult to deal with and badger developers of good projects. It needs to stop before our reputation is shot and too late to make any repairs.

I believe that our city departments have been disjointed for some time. The controversial new city building is a monument to that folks. However, I have high hopes that our new city manager and council members like Phil Fraim will bring about change. Feel free to encourage them when you see them out and about. We love Edmond but the culture of how we operate needs to improve.

( Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure , may be reached for comment at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Edmond Fine Arts & gallery show

Edmond Fine Arts invites all to attend its February Gallery Opening featuring the Hustis/Mantor Family Show, alongside the premiere installation of Frozen Rain (1987) by acclaimed kinetic sculptor Meryl Taradash. The gallery opening is on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., and is free and open to the public.

The Hustis/Mantor Family Show brings together the work of Mark Hustis “Hustis Woodworking”, J. Cocoma Hustis, William Mantor Ceramics, and Cameron Mantor “Doc Art”, showcasing a dynamic range of media including salvaged wood sculpture, mixed media drawing and collage, ceramics, and functional art.

Mark Hustis creates sculptural works from locally sourced Oklahoma trees that have died or are dying due to natural causes such as storms, fire, or lightning. Drawn to grain, knots, burls, and natural deformities, Hustis reveals the hidden beauty within each piece of wood. Favoring kinetic sculpture and steam- or heat-bending techniques, his work transforms salvaged materials into forms that are playful, inspiring, and full of life.

J. Cocoma Hustis draws inspiration from animals and nature, with horses and birds serving as recurring spiritual totems throughout her work. Working primarily in mixed media drawing and collage, she layers western imagery, travel maps, flight paths, and memories of Oklahoma landscapes seen from horseback. Her work reflects a deeply personal visual storytelling, an evolving narrative shaped by curiosity, memory, and connection to place.

William Mantor, a ceramic artist based in Edmond, studied at Oklahoma State University and earned his

MFA from the San Francisco Art Institute. After developing his career in San Francisco and Denver, including work as a production assistant at Fenway Clayworks, Mantor now continues his practice at William Mantor Ceramics. His work explores the balance between form and function, resulting in ceramic pieces that are both visually engaging and practically designed.

Cameron Mantor (Doc Art) brings a unique perspective shaped by a 30-year career as a pediatric surgeon. Now retired, he has embraced artmaking as a new creative chapter, combining wood and resin on the lathe to create vessels and functional works that reflect precision, care, and craftsmanship.

In addition to the family exhibition, Edmond Fine Arts is honored to premiere the installation artwork Frozen Rain (1987) by Meryl Taradash, an internationally exhibited, award-winning kinetic sculptor whose work captured the beauty of light, wind, and motion. The suspended sculpture features a clear central Lucite prism surrounded by translucent white and blue elements, interacting with reflected light to create a serene, ever-changing visual experience.

Over her 40-year career, Taradash created large-scale installations for universities, medical centers, and public spaces across the country, including commissions for the University of Virginia, the Music Center at Strathmore, and the Aramark Corporation. Her work has been exhibited at venues such as The Michener Art Museum, Gallery Henoch (SoHo, NYC), Elaine Benson Gallery (Bridgehampton, NY), Lincoln Center Campus, Grounds for Sculpture, and more.

Safety begins at home — and Edmond Building & Safety is there to help that happen

Department provides safeguards and expertise to protect residents & businesses

From City Source Edmond

Every day in Edmond, families open their doors to the places they trust most — homes built to shelter, systems designed to protect, and communities strengthened by shared responsibility.

Safety in our city doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built, inspected, permitted, and maintained with intention by the Department of Building & Safety and by residents who choose to do things the right way.

Building codes are the backbone of that trust. They reflect the collective wisdom of engineers, safety professionals, and public officials who carefully study how buildings fail — and how they can be made safer. As technology advances and construction practices evolve, so do the codes that keep our homes resilient against storms, electrical hazards, structural failures, and the risks that often remain invisible until something goes wrong.

In 2025, Edmond’s commitment to safety was measurable and meaningful. Building & Safety staff reviewed 1,503 building-related permits and processed 5,181 trade permits, ensuring that projects across the city were planned and executed to meet rigorous standards. They conducted 25,593 building and trade inspections — a daily, hands-on validation that plans on paper became safe, durable reality.

Building safety doesn’t stop at the front door: with 226 fire code permits and 1,719 fire code inspections, Building & Safety helped protect homes, businesses, first responders, and neighborhoods from preventable hazards.

Safe at Home is the Building &

Safety team’s effort to make this work visible and understandable. They aim to bridge the gap between technical regulations and everyday decisions made by residents, contractors, and business owners. When the community understands why codes matter, people avoid shortcuts, choose licensed professionals, and invest in improvements that stand the test of time.

Permits aren’t red tape — they’re a

roadmap to safety, a record of quality, and a promise that what’s built today will protect tomorrow.

The mission is clear: To protect people in the built environment. To achieve this, Building & Safety must safeguard Edmond’s homes and businesses by ensuring construction meets the highest standards of safety, resilience, and quality — through education, engagement, and expert review.

“We believe an informed community is a safer community,” said Kirsten Ledington, Department of Building & Safety Director. “That’s why we’re committed to clear communication — so residents know what to expect, accessible education — so processes feel manageable, and meaningful engagement — so questions are welcomed and answered. Safety is a shared responsibility; the choices made by one property owner can affect neighbors, first responders, and the broader city.

“A home built to code is less likely to collapse in severe weather, less likely to spark a fire, and less likely to endanger those nearby. A permitted project means electrical systems are properly grounded, structural supports are adequate, and renovations don’t compromise integrity.”

As Edmond grows, we will continue to meet residents where they are—whether they’re planning a remodel, building a new home, or upgrading essential systems. We’ll keep demystifying the permitting process, celebrating the professionals who do the work right, and making it easier to build safely. Because safety isn’t abstract; it’s something we plan, check, and maintain together.

“It’s our goal to provide a safer Edmond, built with care, reviewed with expertise, and protected by codes that work,” Ledington said.

Learn more about how the Department of Building & Safety can serve you at www.EdmondOK.gov/190/Department-of-Building-Safety.

Learn more about what’s happening around the City at www.edmondok.gov/CitySource.

Get some forever resolutions

By Carol Smaglinski

Say bye-bye to 2025 and probably those New Year’s resolutions that you made for 2026, right?

Try some Forever Resolutions, permanent changes that can last.

The top pledge made by most is the promise to exercise more.

Unfortunately, due to burnout or boredom, it is also the Number One resolution that gets tossed as studies and surveys have shown.

Head for the gym. If not, plan on spending at least 30 minutes a day walking. Do it all at once, or split it in two. Make it part of your routine, and you will begin to enjoy it more and more.The family pooch will relish exploring the neighborhood, too, rather than just staring and barking out the front window.

Get on track again and start by dumping all that junk food.

You don’t have to turn into a vegetarian, but try Meatless Mondays. It could be a nutritious salad such as egg salad, tuna salad or salmon.

For comfort hard to resist, try twisting and twirling your fork around pasta with an unusual roasted garlic and tomato sauce.

Experiment with baked stuffed vegetables, light-as-air souffles, or something from your Mom’s kitchen you recall as you turned your nose up after being told to “eat your vegetables.”

For those days that seem to zoom by, have some insurance packed away in the freezer. Those could be your own brand of tv dinners made from larger delicious meals that you made and genuinely enjoyed.

Maintain a healthy weight - not too skinny, not too fat. Don’t get on the scale, just put on those jeans and find out how much better you can breathe. See? It works.

Stop smoking. If you don’t, stay away from those who do.

Limit alcohol consumption. For men, it’s two drinks a day, for

women, it’s one.

Stick to this guide: one drink measuring 5 oz. wine, or 12 oz. beer or 1 and ½ oz. spirits and just seven drinks in a week. Sip at a leisurely pace with a pick-me-up of crackers or a bit of dark chocolate.

Keep up your social life by getting in touch with a friend who has gone through some tough times recently, or by sharing lunch. Enjoy a round of Jeopardy with those Smarty Pants up the street who always get more than three or four right. Or, volunteer some time at a local charity.

For best results, put a halt on all that screen time and grab a book.

It is a fact that bookworms live longer. The Edmond Library is loaded and just waiting for you to stop by. Take time to work out word searches, crossword puzzles and you will prolong brain activity.

Eat well! For the following recipe, it can be a side dish for broiled chicken or beef.

Eggplant with Tomatoes

Serves 4

1 sweet onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

2 medium eggplants, sliced

6 Tbsp. olive oil

2 cups chopped tomatoes, sliced ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan

Cook onions in a skillet until tender. Add garlic. Meanwhile, place the sliced eggplant in a single layer in a foil-lined cookie sheet.

Turn on the broiler. Brush eggplant with olive oil. Broil for 20 minutes, turning once until golden brown.

Turn off the broiler and heat the oven to 400 degrees.

In an oven proof dish brushed with a bit of oil, place eggplant, tomatoes, onion and garlic and season to your taste along with rosemary and basil.

Drizzle top with any remaining oil and sprinkle on Parmesan. Bake for about 20 minutes and serve.

(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.)

Jan. 5

Edward Christian Gebhardt, 61 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC.

Dylan Ramar Daniels, 21 of Oklahoma City. Two misdemeanor warrants.

Desean Tarique Lehman, 18 of Midwest City. (Misd. value) receiving stolen property presumption.

Jacari Craigen Malik Hill, 18 of Oklahoma City. (Misdemeanor) receiving stolen property presumption.

Eric Allan Stradler, 54, of Stillwater. Misdemeanor warrant.

Alex Michael Thomas, 35 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Michael Paul Bewey, 37 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Brandon Keith Poston, 42 of Edmond. Felony warrant, non-assault resisting officer, prohibited crossing/pedestrian and two counts of failure to appear.

Dayna Raquel Carter, 38 of Okla-

homa City. Possession of marijuana and shoplifting – petit larceny.

Elwood Lamont Johnson, 51 of Oklahoma City. Child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Jan. 6

Travis Lane Prichard, 57 of Oklahoma City. Nine counts of failure to appear and a misdemeanor warrant.

Jaimee Carilyn Newcomb, 47 of Choctaw. Trespassing.

Ulises Perez-Calderon, 24 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Patrick James Rhodes, 47 homeless. Trespassing.

Travis Michael Webster, 46 of Edmond. Kidnapping and (misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault.

Jan. 7

Melissa Renee Campbell, 41 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Jase Tyler Keck, 20 homeless. Possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

Daniel Delon Rashawd Shaw, 32 of Moore. False personation of another, possess CDS, resisting arrest and felony warrant.

Jan. 8

Jeffrey James Scott, 62 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Dena Kay Morello, 61 of El Reno. No proof of insurance, expired tag –over three months, speeding (16-20 mph over) and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Hunter Blake Voyles, 24 of Edmond. Four counts of failure to appear and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Todd Stuart Tanton, 44 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Ciera Lacy Schank, 36 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Trason Glen Leggett, 36 of Cayton, Utah. Possess drug paraphernalia and possess CDS.

Sierra Denee Scott, 31 of Stillwater. Possession of marijuana and shoplifting – petit larceny.

Jan. 9

Kenausicia Monae Windom, 21 of Oklahoma City, Possess CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

Alyssa Raine Embry, 22 of Ed-

mond. Transport open container of intoxicating beverage or beer and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substance.

Shambreca Simone Webb, 35 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny.

Azita Afaghpour, 55 of Edmond. Assault & battery with a deadly weapon and assault and battery/battery (felony) on police officer or correctional staff.

Austin Alonzo Andersen, 33 of Edmond. Trespassing.

Jan. 10

Trey Lamon McDaniel, 32 of Edmond. Expired tag, driving while license canceled, suspended or revoked, possess CDS and two counts of failure to appear.

Najjiyyah Monique Cannon, 31 of Edmond. Possession of marijuana and failure to appear.

Karl Adric Wagner, 39 of Edmond. Felony warrant.

Mindy Leigh Udell, 55 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Jan. 11

Yonnie Vannie Booth-Smith, 44 of Oklahoma City. Child endangerment and felony DUI/APC.

Weekend calendar of events, Jan. 22-25

Weekend calendar of events Jan. 22-25

Note: With winter weather in the forecast, please check ahead before going to an event

---- 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

---- Trivia Night

---- Edmond Ice Rink

---- Devon Ice Rink

---- The Round Barn Rendezvous

---- Downtown in December

---- Lunar New Year Celebration at UCO

---- OKC Broadway presents: Beauty & the Beast –The Musical

---- Oklahoma City ProRodeo

---- 2 Hip Chicks Roadshow

---- Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show

---- National Pigeon Association Grand National Show

---- Pollard Theatre presents: Todd Oliver’s “Funniest Night of Your Life”

---- Craft Fest

---- Oklahoma Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Convention

---- Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show

---- Time Travel Half-Marathon, 10K & 5K

— Book signing for "Literary Graffiti: Extra Information

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

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

Edmond Patriot Market

Location: 425 Fretz Ave, Edmond

Extra Info: Recurring last Saturdays of the month; 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; free; facebook.com

Karaoke Night

Location: The Gin

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; 7 p.m.; theginok.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

Watch Party Location: The Gin

Extra Info: Recurring weekly every Thursday; Free; 7 p.m.; visitedmondok.com

Coffee & Guitars

Location: Edmond Music

Extra Info: Every Saturday morning; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Book Swap

Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project

Extra Info: Recurring every 2 months on the first Sunday; 2 – 5 p.m.; visitedmondok.com

Trivia Night Location: Flatire Burgers

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thur; 8 – 10 p.m.; flatireburgers.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

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

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

Lunar New Year Celebration at UCO

Location: University of Central Oklahoma, Hamilton Field House

Extra Info: Thu, Jan 22; 6 – 9 p.m.; visitedmon-

dok.com

OKC Broadway presents: Beauty & the Beast – The Musical

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Tue, Jan 20 – Sun, Jan 25; Tue – Fri: 7:30 p.m.; Sat: 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Sun: 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; okcbroadway.com

Oklahoma City ProRodeo

Location: 333 Gordon Cooper Blvd

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 23 – Sun, Jan 25; Trade Show: 5 p.m.; Rodeo: 7:30 p.m.; mccoyrodeo.com

2 Hip Chicks Roadshow

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 23 – Sat, Jan 24; 2hipchicksroadshows.com

Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 23 – Sun, Jan 25; Fri: 12 – 8 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; oklahomacityhomeshow.com

National Pigeon Association

Grand National Show

Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park, The Pavilion

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 23 – Sun, Jan 25; npausa.com

Pollard Theatre presents: ‘

Todd Oliver’s “Funniest Night of Your Life”

Location: Pollard Theatre

Extra Info: Fri, Jan 23 – Sun, Jan 25; Fri & Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; thepollard.org

Craft Fest

Location: OKC Downtown Metropolitan Library, 300 Park Ave, OKC

Extra Info: Sat, Jan 24; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; metrolibrary.org

Oklahoma Quarter Horse

Hall of Fame & Convention

Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton

Extra Info: Sat, Jan 24; okqha.org

Dinner Detective Comedy

Mystery Dinner Show

Location: Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City

Extra Info: Sat, Jan 24; 6 – 9 p.m.; thedinnerdetective.com

Time Travel Half-Marathon, 10K & 5K

Location: 1120 S Western Ave, OKC

Extra Info: Sun, Jan 25; Packet pickup: 7:30 – 8:45 a.m.; Kid’s Dash: 8:55 a.m.; Race Starts: 9 a.m.; runsignup.com

Book signing for "Literary Graffiti: “ Saturday, January 24th 2026 2-4 pm PLACE: Edmond Library Sponsors - Pen & Keyboard Writers

Rep. wants insurance companies to stop using credit scores for rates

Rep. Andy Fugate, D–Del City, introduced House Bill 4286 to prohibit insurance companies from using a person’s credit history or credit score to determine the rates they pay for insurance.

The measure is designed to protect hardworking Oklahomans who are being priced out of basic financial stability by an insurance system that punishes people for their credit history rather than their actual risk.

“Insurance is unlike any other product,” Fugate said. “If someone fails to pay for a car, it must be repossessed. If they fail to pay for a home, they must be evicted. That takes time and effort. But if someone fails to pay their insurance bill, the company simply denies the claim. Period. There is no financial risk to the insurer that justifies using credit scores as a backdoor way to raise rates.”

While the practice affects all insurance, Fugate emphasized that the most devastating impact is on home insurance — where Oklahoma already has some of the highest premiums in the nation. Those inflated premiums are shutting hardworking families out of homeownership.

“Right now, a young couple can find a starter home with a mortgage payment they can afford,” Fugate said. “But when they go to close, they discover their homeowner insurance premium is so inflated because of their credit score that their escrow payment becomes unaffordable. They lose the

home, not because they cannot afford the house, but because they cannot afford the insurance.”

Fugate noted that this creates a perverse system where families with limited or poor credit are blocked from building wealth, while investors with excellent credit can swoop in, buy the same home, and rent it back to them at a profit.

“That’s not a free market. That’s a rigged market,” Fugate said. “Hardworking Oklahomans are being priced out of the American dream while someone with better credit buys the home, charges them rent, pays less for the insurance, and makes a profit. That’s upside-down.”

Testimony from an interim study last fall underscored how disconnected current insurance pricing is from real-world risk. Lawmakers heard that an Oklahoman with a spotless driving record but poor credit could pay more for car insurance than a neighbor with multiple accidents but excellent credit.

“That example stunned people,” Fugate said. “It shows exactly why this practice is unfair, unproductive, and completely disconnected from actual behavior. Whether driving or maintaining a home, insurance rates should be based on risk, not on whether someone went through a tough financial stretch.” Fugate said the bill is part of his broader commitment to ensuring Oklahoma’s laws work for regular people, not just those with wealth or perfect credit histories.

Lawmaker wants to give fireworks sales a boost

Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso, has filed legislation to create a temporary sales tax exemption on fireworks as Oklahoma and the nation prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States.

House Bill 4093 would establish a four-day, tax-free period for the sale of fireworks beginning at 12:01 a.m. July 2. and ending at midnight July 5. The exemption is intended to coincide with Independence Day celebrations marking America’s semiquincentennial.

"This is a historic milestone for our country, and it deserves to be celebrated in a big way," Norwood said. "Fireworks are part of how families and communities come together on Independence Day, and this bill helps make it easier for all Oklahomans to celebrate with a tax-free weekend."

The measure defines fireworks as any combustible or explosive item sold to the general public for produc-

ing a visible or audible effect and directs the Oklahoma Tax Commission to promulgate rules necessary to implement the exemption.

Norwood said the legislation is meant to honor the nation’s history while encouraging shared moments of celebration.

"There is something special about watching fireworks on the Fourth of July," Norwood said. "They represent joy, freedom and the sacrifices that made this country possible, and I want families across Oklahoma to fully enjoy that experience as we mark 250 years of independence."

If approved, the bill would take effect July 1, ensuring the exemption is in place for the Independence Day holiday period.

HB4093 is eligible for consideration in the Second Regular Session of the 60th Legislature, which convenes Feb. 2.

Obituary notice

Gary K. Moore

Gary K. Moore, 84, of Lee’s Summit, MO (formerly of Edmond, OK), passed away after battling cancer on December 28th, 2025. He was surrounded by family at his home in John Knox Village where he passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

He was born on January 1, 1941, in Holton, KS, the son of William Hugh and Alma Mae (Bergstrom) Moore.

Gary graduated from East High in Wichita, KS, Class of 1959. He attended the University of Wichita (now Wichita State University), earning his Bachelor’s Degree in 1963. He received his Master’s degree from Central State University (now the University of Central Oklahoma) in 1980.

After graduating from WU, he was commissioned into the U.S. Army. He served 25 years, earning a Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Vietnam Service Medal with four Campaign Stars, among others. He retired in 2001 as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Also after his graduation from WU, Gary wed the love of his life, Rita I. Calvin, and they were married 62 years. Gary’s vocation was the insurance industry and commercial

real estate. He was elected to the Edmond City Council (Oklahoma) and served for eight years, six of which he was Mayor Pro Tempore. At the time of his death, Gary was a member of BPOE (Elks), VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), the American Legion, and the Lee’s Summit Civil Air Patrol (CAP) MO Wing.

In addition to his parents, Gary was predeceased by a sister, Mary Ann, and his stepmother, Betty I. Moore. Surviving, in addition to his wife, Rita, are his two sons, Gregory K. Moore (Jody) of Lee’s Summit, MO and Kelly W. Moore (Leslie) of Augusta, KS; four grandchildren, Joshua Chosa of Wichita, KS, Katelyn Moore (Jamie) of Augusta, KS, Todd Ponder (Mandy) of Kansas City, MO, and Sergeant Ryan Aikens (Melissa) of Fairbanks, AK; two sisters, Nita Hinshaw (Randy) of Plano, TX and Alisa “Kay” Hake (Lynn) of Dallas, TX; three brothers, Bill Moore (Mae) of Wells, KS, Barry Moore (Gale) of Eagle River, AK, and Ronn Moore (Lisa) of Lexington, TX; two greatgrandchildren, seven nieces and nephews, and too many cousins to count.

Inurnment with military honors will precede the service at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 31 at Gracelawn Cemetery, 1407 North Boulevard, Edmond, OK. A Celebration of Life will follow at 1:00 p.m. and take place at First Presbyterian Church of Edmond, 1001 S Rankin St. Memorial gifts may be made to the HOPE Center of Edmond, 1251 North Broadway, Suite A, Edmond, OK, 73034. Arrangements made by Matthews Funeral Home, 601 S Kelly Ave., Edmond, OK, 73003. See full obituary at www. matthewsfuneralhome.com.

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

The immigration mess

The whole deportation topic is an interesting issue.

At one time there wouldn’t have been any controversy.

Steve Gust

People realized that if they weren’t citizens, or didn’t have the proper paperwork, that they’d be subject to deportation. Even Bill Clinton and Barack Obama deported millions of people and openly supported border enforcement.

That has certainly changed over the years.

What we have now are politicians not wanting enforcement of immigration law. Not only that, but they want the agencies, that do enforce the law, to be defunded.

Are we no longer going to have borders? Do we want to have just anyone enter the country at any time – even if we don’t know anything about the person? How do we know we’re not taking in a serial killer? Do we want to overload our infrastructure of the nation with more housing, medical and school needs? Apparently there are many people

who do.

Even if we get immigration under control, what’s to stop a future liberal president from throwing the borders wide open again?

It’s the issue that won’t go away.

—-

There’s something else I don’t fully understand.

Why do we play the college football championship and the NCAA men’s basketball championship on a Monday night?

OK, I realize that because of the best-of-seven series – some baseball or NBA championships also may fall on a Monday.

I also know that some colleges, because of religious beliefs, will not play games on Sunday. It just seems like Monday is an odd day to play the biggest games of the season. Monday is the unofficial start of a new week and just doesn’t seem to be a “fun and games” day to me. .

I just think a championship should be on a Saturday or Friday – just my opinion.

(Steve Gust, editor, may be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com)

Legislator takes aim at ‘evolution’ only teaching

Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, has filed legislation to restore balanced instruction in Oklahoma classrooms and promote critical-thinking skills by ensuring students are not subjected to one government-mandated ideology about the origins of life.

Senate Bill 1868 prohibits public school teachers from presenting the theory of evolution as the sole explanation for the origin of human life. Bullard’s bill requires public and charter schoolteachers who instruct students on biological evolution to also provide education on the concepts of creationism and/or intelligent design.

The legislation also protects teachers and students from censorship by preventing the State Board of Education and local school boards from prohibiting objective discussion of the scientific strengths and weaknesses of biological evolution, creationism and intelligent design.

“For far too long, we have clouded the understanding of where we come from and our origins as humans,” said Bullard, a former his-

tory and government teacher. “For decades, we have taught fiction as fact and forced the theory of evolution on our kids. That ends now. Senate Bill 1868 fixes this problem by putting both evolution and creationism in the classroom for students to learn.”

Bullard added that even Charles Darwin, who is credited with the foundation of evolutionary studies, doubted his own theory that is now forced on every student in our public schools without scrutiny. He pointed to the following quote that Darwin wrote in a 1857 letter to Asa Gray: “'I am quite conscious that my speculations run quite beyond the bounds of true science.”

“The ability to discern the truth about the origins of man is a critical step in our kids’ education,” Bullard said. “Either we teach both ideas or we allow parents to teach their kids this important topic. We must also stop this indoctrination of our kids using a theory that even its creator openly doubted.”

SB 1868 will be eligible for consideration during the 2026 legislative session, which begins Feb. 2.

Rep. Tom Gann, R-Inola, last week, announced a comprehensive transparency package aimed at bringing the Oklahoma Legislature under the state’s open meetings and open records standards, calling the move "necessary to restore public trust and end a culture of secrecy in state government."

House Bill 3842, which Gann is calling the Open Legislature Initiative, is formally titled the Legislative Transparency, Accountability, and Open Meetings Act of 2026. In addition to requiring continued public notice and recording of legislative meetings for the Oklahoma House of the state Senate, the measure would mandate disclosure of lobbyist influence tied to legislation and prohibit nondisclosure agreements that interfere with lawmakers’ official duties.

“The Legislature cannot demand transparency from every other public body while exempting itself,” Gann said. “If we expect open government, we must lead by example.”

Land sales to foreigners concern lawmaker

Senator Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, has filed a slate of legislation for the 2026 legislative session to strengthen protections for Oklahomans, underscoring his commitment to defending Oklahoma values and constitutional rights, and protecting the state’s most vulnerable citizens.

Hamilton has introduced bills to prohibit foreign ownership of land and data centers in the state, protecting Oklahomans from foreign influence and upholding national security.

Senate Bill 1672 builds on existing provisions in state law to prohibit foreign acquisition of land in Oklahoma. Further, the bill removes a current provision that permitted exemptions and ensures the law applies uniformly to all foreign ownership.

Senate Bill 1706 provides that data centers in Oklahoma may not be directly or indirectly rented, leased, or controlled by a foreign owner.

“Under no circumstances can we permit non-citizens to gain access to our lands, resources, or personal data,” Hamilton said. “These pieces of legislation bolster our state laws, protect our citizens, and provide additional safeguards against those who

seek to harm our nation or infiltrate our communities.”

Hamilton has also filed legislation to protect children from predatory AI chatbot features that could expose them to content that is explicit or threatens their safety.

Senate Bill 1521 prohibits the design of AI chatbot features that expose minors to explicit content or coerce suicide, non-suicidal self-injury, or imminent physical or sexual violence. Additionally, the legislation requires AI chatbot developers to implement age verification tools on their platforms and freeze accounts until the user’s age is verified. Companies that fail to comply with the provisions of the measure could face civil penalties up to $100,000.

“Entirely too many innocent children have been exposed to harmful and explicit content through AI and online platforms, leaving them susceptible to exploitation, trauma, and lifelong psychological harm,” Hamilton said. “These measures may add steps for users, but they are essential to safeguarding Oklahoma youth from AI content that puts their safety at risk.”

Letters to the Editor policy

We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters:

1) You must tell us your full name;

2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and

3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034. or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

Hamilton’s legislation will be eligible for consideration during the 2026 legislative session, which begins Feb. 2.

Rep. Molly Jenkins, R-Coyle, has filed three bills she says are aimed at giving voters a direct voice in decisions about pay raises for legislators and statewide elected officials.

Jenkins said she introduced the three pieces of legislation after the Oklahoma Legislative Compensation Board met in executive session late last year before approving recent pay raises for legislators and statewide elected officials.

"I have stood by my word and have chosen to take decisive action after the deeply troubling actions by the Oklahoma Legislative Compensation Board," Jenkins said. "I do not believe the current law was designed to allow this type of closed-door meeting."

House Joint Resolution 1047 would allow voters to approve or reject the recently approved raises for legislators and public officials. The measure would also freeze legislative pay at the Nov. 1, 2025, level unless voters approve any future increases.

House Bill 3093 would amend the Open Meeting Act by clarifying the limited circumstances under which public bodies may meet in executive session. The bill specifies that executive sessions would only be used to discuss individual officers or employees who are, were or will be under the direct supervision, employment or appointment of the public body holding the session.

Jenkins said the change is intended to prevent the compensation board from meeting in executive session to discuss salaries for legislators and statewide elected officials.

"This clarification makes it clear that executive sessions are not a loophole for boards to shield broad compensation decisions from public view," Jenkins said. "The compensation board should not be allowed to meet behind closed doors to decide the pay of officials who are not its employees."

How learning a foreign language benefits students

Adults undoubtedly recall their school days when schedules included a class devoted to foreign languages. Some students embrace foreign language classes, while others may question their value. Those in the latter camp may be surprised to learn just how much they benefit from studying a foreign language.

Foreign languages and long-term cognitive health

Dementia might not be foremost on the minds of school-aged youngsters, but their foreign language class could be delaying its onset by a significant margin. A 2010 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Neurology found that bilingual patients with probable Alzheimer’s disease reported the onset of symptoms 5.1 years later than monolingual patients. Authors of the study concluded that lifelong bilingualism confers protection against the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, which underscores the value of learning a foreign language as a young person and maintaining that knowledge throughout adulthood.

Foreign languages and attention span

A recent study from Microsoft found that the average attention span is now eight seconds, which marks a significant decline since 2000, when the average attention span was 12 seconds. Researchers behind the report suggest the prevalence of screens, particularly the use of multiple screens at once, has led to that decline. But bilingual individuals may be able to buck that trend. Researchers at the School of Psychology at the University of Birmingham suggest that bilingualism could lead to better sustained attention and attentional monitoring, thus improving students’ ability to remain focused and block out distractions.

Foreign languages and multi-tasking

Most adults likely need no reminder that the current world is one that requires an ability to multi-task. Learning a foreign language can make it easier to navigate that world. A 2012 study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that bilingual children had a greater ability to multi-task than monolingual children. The NIH study utilized a switching task to gauge monolingual and bilingual children’s ability to pay attention, plan, organize, and strategize. Bilingual children were faster at switching than their monolingual counterparts, which could set them up to be more successful in a world that has increasingly valued the ability to multi-task.

Foreign language courses do more than teach kids how to speak a non-native tongue. The benefits of such courses on students’ brains is well-documented and can produce some immediate and long-lasting results.

How a well-rounded education benefits students

Academic environments have undergone quite a change over the last several decades. Technological advancements have changed the way educators teach and how students learn, but there’s also been a notable shift in what students are learning.

Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) has become a point of emphasis in twenty-first century classrooms, and for good reason.

The U.S. National Science Foundation notes that a workforce educated in STEM is vital to a country’s prosperity and security. Opportunities in STEM fields are on the rise as well, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates STEM occupations will grow by roughly 11 percent between 2022 and 2032.

The value of STEM is undeniable. However, students and parents also should recognize the many ways a well-rounded education that includes math and science but also the humanities and social sciences facilitates strong academic performance.

Critical thinking skills

A well-rounded education can instill important and useful critical thinking skills in students. When students direct the bulk of their attention to a single subject or category of subjects, they’re less likely to understand how interconnected coursework, and indeed the world, can be. A well-rounded education can instill in students a more nuanced way of looking at problems and potential solutions. That ability can positively affect students’ personal lives and ultimately their professional lives when their formal schooling ends, as they will be in position to better assess situations.

Comprehension

Tests are designed to gauge students’ grasp of material. Students’ ability to comprehend lessons taught in the classroom is a big part of that, and

a well-rounded education fosters strong comprehension skills. A 2018 report from the New York State Education Department noted that research has found that students are better readers after they have been exposed to the language and vocabulary of the natural world, the sciences and social studies.

Crossover benefits

A well-rounded education can help students perform better in all of their subjects. In 2021, a University of Buffalo academic and researcher studying children and dyslexia made a startling discovery regarding the value of reading and how it affects performance in subjects like math. The research found that reading proficiency crosses academic domains and actually guides how students approach various tasks and solve problems. That means a well-rounded education that includes reading-heavy subjects, like those in the humanities and social sciences, could actually improve how students perform in STEM classes.

A well-rounded education pays a number of dividends for students. Recognition of those benefits might compel parents to support a curriculum that includes a wide array of subjects and academic disciplines.

Did you Know?

The percentage of students with disabilities who had a specific learning disability declined by a significant margin between the 2010-11 school year and the 2020-21 school year. Data from the National Center for Education Statistics indicates that 32.7 percent of students with disabilities had a specific learning disability in 202021, which marks a 4 percent decrease from a decade prior. That decrease occurred despite a steadily rising student-teacher ratio in special education. In fact, the U.S. Department of Education reports that the current student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1 in special education is higher than the overall student-teacher ratio in general education.

What parents can do to

Be more involved at school

Education is vital for young people to reach their full potential and enjoy success in adulthood. Students’ academic journeys begin as early as preschool and continue for decades. While students ultimately earn degrees or professional certifications in their own names, their academic journeys are often a team effort that includes the support of their parents.

Parental involvement in school can pay significant dividends for students. In 2019, the American Psychological Association reviewed more than 400 studies examining parental involvement in school. That review found that students whose parents were involved in their children’s schooling showed greater academic achievement, school engagement and motivation compared to youngsters with parents who were not involved. That payoff compels millions of parents to get involved in their children’s schooling, and the following are a handful of ways to do just that.

• Actively communicate with children’s teachers. Parents can contact teachers at the start of a new school year to identify the best way to communicate. Some schools utilize apps to facilitate communication with parents. Some teachers may prefer communicating via email, phone calls or even text messages. Parents should not hesitate or be afraid to reach out to teachers about their children’s needs.

• Do your part at home, too. Parental involvement in children’s education can extend to the

home as well. Parents can emphasize the importance of education in conversations with their children and offer to help with homework when children seem to need some assistance. Parents also can ask about assignments and tests, enthusiastically engage in projects designed to involve students’ families, and provide a stable, distraction-free home environment where kids can focus on their schoolwork.

• Volunteer with parental organizations. Parent teacher associations/organizations are always in need of members to help to organize special events and volunteer at school functions. Parents can join groups such as a PTA or PTO to get more involved in campus life. If joining such groups is not possible, parents can let it be known that they would like to volunteer for events throughout the school year.

• Ask children about their day. One of the simplest ways parents can be more involved in children’s schooling is to ask them about their day when they arrive home. Ask children what they did in class, and which parts of their day they found most, or even least, enjoyable. When parents express an interest in what kids are doing at school, that may compel kids to be more interested in their coursework.

Children are the ultimate beneficiaries when parents get involved in their youngsters’ education, and there’s no shortage of ways for moms and dads to engage at school.

Celebrating 21 Years of Keystone Adventure School and Farm

For the past twenty-one years, Keystone Adventure School and Farm has been a beacon in the Edmond and OKC community, offering a unique and nurturing educational experience that fosters kindness, confidence, academic excellence, individuality, and joy in every student. As we celebrate our 21st anniversary, we reflect on this incredible journey of joy that has shaped not only the lives of children but also the families and community members who have embraced and supported our mission. For these gifts and more, we are truly grateful.

At Keystone, we believe in creating an atmosphere of inclusion and support, where children are allowed

to develop at a pace that helps them grow towards a more confident self. This thoughtful approach ensures every child feels valued and empowered, building a foundation of self-assurance that prepares them for success in middle school and beyond. This environment has helped countless children develop a love for learning that makes them eager to come to school each day. Parents often share that their mornings are free of the usual school struggles because their kids are so passionate about being here.

Keystone is also proud to be an accredited school, making families eligible for the Parental Choice Tax Credit (PCTC). This tax credit, which can be as much as $7,500—over 50% of tuition—has made our individualized educational approach accessible to more families. It is just one of the many ways we strive to create opportunities for children from diverse backgrounds to thrive.

The impact of Keystone extends far beyond the walls of the classroom. For 21 years, the school has been a cornerstone of the community, offering a valuable alternative in education that emphasizes creativity, compassion, critical thinking, and a journey of joy. Keystone families have found not only an academic institution but also a supportive community where children are empowered to become the best version of themselves.

As we look to the future, Keystone remains committed to its mission of fostering the next generation of kind, confident, and capable individuals. We invite you to become part of our vibrant community—where your family and your child can thrive, grow, and experience the unique joys of learning that Keystone offers. The journey of the past 21 years has been remarkable, but with you, we know the best is yet to come.

Mullin secures over $45.5 million for various Oklahoma projects

Last week, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted yes on H.R.6938, Appropriations Minibus: Commerce, Justice, & Science, Energy & Water Development, and Interior & Environment.

Remember, the Democrat controlled Senate in 2024 did not pass a single appropriations bill. The Republican Senate, however, is working at record pace and has now passed of 6 of the 12 FY 2026 appropriations bills.

“It’s a true honor to sit on the Senate Appropriations Committee and fight for Oklahoma every day. Our committee worked tirelessly to ensure regular order was restored to the appropriations process,” said Senator Mullin. “Under the leadership of Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Republicans are working for the American people again. Six down, six more to go. Let’s get them done.”

Oklahoma Wins Secured by Senator Mullin:

Commerce, Justice, & Science

$1.3 million – Mid-America Christian University for an Engineering & AI Technology Project

$3 million – University of Tulsa for Cooperative and Secure Physical AI Systems

$531,000 – Major County Sheriff’s Office for Regional Emergency Communications Tower Equipment Replacement

$575,000 – Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation for Internet Crimes Against Children Technology Support

$500,000 – Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office for Rapid DNA Programs for Investigations

Energy & Water Development

$10 million – Army Corps of Engineers for Water Infrastructure Improvements in Midwest City

$3.2 million – University of Tulsa for Advanced Grid Scale Energy Storage

$3.2 million University of Tulsa Extreme Material Advancements

$3.2 million – University of Tulsa for Pipeline Systems Durability and Safety for Energy Transportation

Interior & Environment

$15 million – City of Durant for 24-Inch Water Distribution Line Construction

$5 million – City of Edmond for Water Treatment Plan Facility Construction

FY 2026 Total Funds Secured by Senator Mullin = $45,506,000

Lankford & March for Life

Ahead of the annual March for Life this week, US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) co-chair of the Senate Values Action Team took to the Senate floor last week to stand with the tens of thousands of Americans traveling to Washington this week to celebrate the value of every child, while reaffirming his long-standing commitment to protecting unborn children, supporting mothers, and opposing taxpayer-funded abortion. Lankford continues to be the leading pro-life voice in the United States Senate.

Last week, he joined his Senate colleagues in calling on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reinstate in-person doctor visits for dangerous abortion drugs.

Last year, Lankford introduced the Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act, legislation that ensures medical students and residents are never pressured or coerced into abortion training that violates their moral

or religious beliefs. The bill establishes clear federal protections so medical professionals are not forced to choose between their conscience and their careers. Lankford also urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to investigate the environmental and public health risks of the abortion drug mifepristone, warning that its chemical byproducts may be contaminating the nation’s water supply.

Lankford also introduced the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed (MOMS) Act, which provides critical support to women during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and early childhood development. The legislation expands access to resources and assistance to help mothers and their children thrive.

In 2024, Lankford led efforts to protect Oklahoma’s health care funding from the Biden Administration’s pro-abortion agenda.

Movie review of ‘The Rip’

Cop film not perfect but worth a watch

By George Gust

Netflix’s latest original movie “The Rip” is a lean, dirty cop thriller from writer director Joe Carnahan (“The Grey”, “Smokin’ Aces”) that favors mood over spectacle. The premise, a familiar ‘who’stherat’ setup, might sound conventional, but Carnahan approaches it with a stripped down confidence, framing the story as a slow burn rather than a fireworks show.

A group of Miami cops, led by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, discover a stash of millions in cash, leading to distrust as outsiders learn about the huge seizure, making them question who to rely on.

What truly defines the film is its darkly drawn look and the tension that darkness creates. Carnahan trades the flat, glossy Netflix aesthetic for a Miami suburb rendered in eerie halflight, full of competing sources and deep shadows that make every space feel like a trap. That atmosphere fuels a strong, patient first act, building suspense as the promised conspiracy begins to take shape. But the payoff can’t match the setup, the finale piles on twists and double crosses until the tension dis-

solves into clutter, and the triple reveal ending lands with more confusion than catharsis. Even the action being brief, rough, intentionally unpolished fits the film’s grimy realism but may leave viewers wanting more than it ultimately delivers.

Affleck and Damon are perfectly cast for this kind of macho, antagonistic cop story butting heads with n a low simmering, no one backs down cadence they slip into like second nature. They don’t reinvent themselves, but they don’t need to; their chemistry and timing anchor the film’s moral ambiguity. Steven Yeun is the standout among the

supporting players, bringing a quieter, more inquisitive presence that helps steer the audience through the fog of suspicion. The ensemble is uniformly solid, and even when the plot gets messy the actors sell the stakes and keep the film grounded.

“The Rip” won’t displace the great paranoid cop dramas it nods to, but it’s a respectable, wellcrafted entry that will satisfy viewers who prefer mood and mystery to blockbuster thrills. Its visual bravado and committed performances make it worth a watch, even if the narrative resolution feels less than fully earned. If you’re in the mood for a compact, atmospheric whodunnit with the trimmings of classic cop cinema, this one will scratch that itch, just don’t expect the fullthrottle payoff of its inspirations.

“The Rip” is rated R for violence and pervasive language.

2.8 out of 5 stars.

(Contact George Gust for comment about this movie, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)

Madison portrayal

The Oklahoma History Center is honored to present Colonial Williamsburg’s Bryan Austin in a portrayal of James Madison. Join us for this special presentation on Saturday, January 31, from 7-8:30 p.m.

Step into the past and meet James Madison as acclaimed interpreter Bryan Austin brings one of America’s most influential founding fathers vividly to life. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, this immersive evening offers insight into what Madison may have thought as he helped shape the Constitution, debated the balance of power and considered the future of the young republic.

Tickets are $10 for Oklahoma Historical Society members and $20 for the general public. Tickets can be purchased online through the Museum Store, over the phone by calling 405-522-0765 or at the door on the evening of the event.

The Oklahoma History Center Museum is located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.5 p.m.

PR firm marks 15 years in business

PLPR, formerly known as Price Lang Public Relations, celebrated 15 years in business this month.

The roots of PLPR’s success trace back to cofounders, Charlie Price and Emily Lang, who honed their skills in the Oklahoma Attorney General's Office by tackling legislative affairs and managing media relations for complex stories that frequently garnered national attention. Throughout the last decade and a half, the two have expanded their client roster to include Fortune 50 companies in Oklahoma and beyond, with more than a dozen of Oklahoma’s top professionals on staff.

"Even with our significant growth, we have never lost sight of the core of our success, which is building trusted relationships with our clients, “ said co-founder Charlie Price. “We truly become an extension of their team, representing them with honesty, tenacious advocacy and authentic storytelling.”

Now a full service firm offering strategic communications, digital expertise, crisis management, video services and website creation, the company's diverse client list has grown to include entities in government, healthcare, business, education,

sports and nonprofit sectors.

"Every client has a message to share and we are committed to helping them cut through the noise to deliver that message through data-driven strategy and customized marketing solutions,” said cofounder Emily Lang.

The firm is expecting a record year of growth and has its sights firmly set on the future.

“We are immensely grateful to our existing clients for their trust and friendship,” added Lang. “It’s been an exciting and fulfilling 15 years and in many ways, we feel like we are just getting started.”

Founded in 2011, PLPR’s services include a range of communications and public relations functions, including, copywriting, social media support, graphic design and strategic and crisis communications. For more information, visit www.plprglobal.com.

Why Edmond should vote ‘Yes’ on Feb. 10

Editor:

People choose Edmond for a reason. They choose it for strong neighborhoods, a stable local economy and schools that consistently perform at a high level. Those things are not accidental. They are the result of long-term planning and a community willing to invest in what matters.

As president of the board of directors of the Edmond Public Schools Foundation, I see how closely the success of our schools and the success of our city are connected. Edmond Public Schools have earned a strong reputation through dedicated educators, thoughtful leadership and community support. This bond is not about changing who we are. It is about protecting what works and ensuring Edmond remains a place people want to call home.

The 2026 bond includes two propositions. Proposition 1 provides $136.4 million for infrastructure and technology.

State Democrat wants to fix housing shortage in the state

Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt has filed a slate of bills to increase available affordable housing in the state. Oklahoma is 77,000 housing units short statewide for current workforce, even without increases in population. Almost a third of Oklahomans are cost-burdened when trying to pay for renting or owning a home, which holds back economic growth.

“The best way to address rising rents and home prices and reduce homelessness is to make sure people have more options for homes, but there’s a big shortage of affordable housing in Oklahoma,” said Kirt, DOklahoma City. “I’ve introduced three innovative bills to increase the availability of the types of housing Oklahomans need to thrive.”

Senate Bill 1393 creates the RESTORE Program: Revitalizing Empty

Structures Through Ownership, Renovation, and Enterprise. This legislation will create a tax credit for the adaptive reuse of dilapidated or abandoned buildings into workforce and affordable housing.

Senate Bill 1332 creates THRIVE: The Targeted Housing and Responsible Infrastructure for Vital Economies Program. This creates a zero-interest loan program accessible by cities, towns and counties to support new water infrastructure needed for housing development.

Senate Bill 1545 involves a piece of legislation called YIGBY: Yes in God’s Backyard. The bill allows faithbased organizations to develop affordable housing as a use-by-right on their properties.

Kirt’s affordable housing measures can be heard when the 2026 session convenes in February.

Free tax help offered at UCO

For the 40th consecutive year, the University of Central Oklahoma’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program will provide free 2025 income tax preparation and e-filing services for UCO students, faculty, staff and the community from Jan. 31 to April 11. Sponsored by the IRS, the VITA program provides no-cost tax assistance to low-income taxpayers, individuals with disabilities and taxpayers with limited English proficiency who need help completing their tax returns.

VITA will be available from 2-5:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays and from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., on Saturdays in the Business building, Room 107, on Central's campus. VITA will be closed March 16-22, during UCO's spring break.

The UCO VITA team consists of accounting students who have successfully passed at least three qualifying exams to prepare income tax returns. UCO accounting faculty oversee the

students and review every return to ensure accuracy.

Individuals seeking assistance should bring all required tax documents, including social security cards for themselves and any dependents, a government-issued photo ID, W-2 forms and 1099 forms from banks, brokerages, contract work and other income sources. Clients should also bring receipts for charitable donations, as well as receipts for education and daycare expenses.

International students are required to bring their passports, visas and any 1042-S forms received from 2025 employers, along with W-2 forms, 1099 forms and receipts for contributions.

All services are on a first-come, firstserved basis. As a free public service, UCO VITA prioritizes assisting those with the greatest need.

For more information on VITA, visit go.uco.edu/VITA or contact Riley Shaull, UCO accounting instructor, at rshaull@uco.edu or 405-974-2846.

Letter to the Editor on upcoming school bond issue

Proposition 2 allocates $3.6 million for transportation. Together, they address the essential systems that allow schools to operate safely, efficiently and at a high level. It is important to understand how schools are funded. State funding is largely designed to support classroom instruction and the people who deliver it. In Edmond, the vast majority of state dollars go directly to teachers and staff. That funding does not cover major facility upgrades, technology replacement or transportation needs. Bonds are how communities take care of those long-term investments with-

See Bond Issue, Page 18

Bond Issue

out pulling resources away from classrooms.

For retirees, empty nesters and other residents without children currently enrolled in Edmond schools, it is fair to ask why this matters. Highperforming schools protect home values, strengthen the local economy and help ensure Edmond remains a desirable place to live. Communities with high-performing schools tend to attract employers, services and investment that benefit all residents.

There is no planned tax increase

From Page 17

associated with this bond. It reflects Edmond’s long-standing approach of planning ahead, managing resources carefully and maintaining high expectations for its schools.

At its heart, this vote is about stewardship. Voting yes on Feb. 10 is a vote to protect our shared prosperity today and into the future.

Sincerely,

Cassie E. Niemann EPS Parent and Foundation Board President

Lawmaker not fond of ‘West Bank’ term

Senate Majority Floor Leader Julie Daniels, RBartlesville, filed legislation last week that requires state agencies to use the historically accurate name of “Judea and Samaria” instead of the term “West Bank” in official government materials when referring to the region in the heart of Israel.

“I introduced Senate Bill 2153 to correct the record and affirm the historic and biblical connection of the Jewish people to Judea and Samaria,” Leader Daniels said. “A term created in 1948 for political reasons should not be allowed to erase the true name of the biblical heartland of the Jewish people. Judea and Samaria are not modern po-

litical inventions. They are referenced throughout Scripture and central to Jewish history for thousands of years.”

Senator Daniels is working with Yigal Dilmoni and Rafi Lazerowitz from the American Friends of Judea and Samaria (AFJS) on the legislation.

Lazerowitz praised Daniels’ bill.

“American citizens — Jews and Christians alike — are united today in their support for the State of Israel and in safeguarding Judea and Samaria as an inseparable part of it,” he said. “We express our deep appreciation to Majority Floor Leader Julie Daniels and her colleagues in the Oklahoma Legislature, who are working not only to strengthen Is-

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rael’s security, but also to educate the younger generation in the United States to move away from false and politically driven terminology, reconnect with the Bible, and use language grounded in truth and justice. This is how we strengthen understanding of the biblical history of the Land of Israel.”

Daniels said working last session to help pass Senate Bill 991, which created an official definition of antisemitism, brought this issue to light.

“The truth matters,” she said. “The words and terms used to define and influence thinking about the Jewish people and the State of Israel must be truthful.”

“WHEN YOU ARE KIND TO OTHERS, IT NOT ONLY CHANGES YOU, IT CHANGES THE WORLD” - HAROLD KUSHNER