Edmond Life and Leisure - June 18, 2026

June 18, 2026 Vol. 27, No. 5

In This Issue

100 years

Mitchell Hall to mark centennial June 29

PHOTO PROVIDED

LibertyFest 2026 Guide Inserted Today!

FRIDAY, JUNE 19 Partly Cloudy High 70° Low 88°

Mitchell Hall — celebrating 100 years at the University of Central Oklahoma The University of Central Oklahoma College of Fine Arts and Design will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Mitchell Hall Theatre with a special alumni showcase at 7 p.m., Monday, June 29, in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus Held on the theater’s centennial date, the one-nightonly event will bring together alumni from UCO’s dance, theatre arts and music programs for an evening of performance, reflection and celebration. Featuring performers from multiple generations, the showcase honors a venue that has served as a cornerstone of arts education, performance and community life in Edmond for a century.

SATURDAY, JUNE 20 PM Thunderstorms High 76° Low 93°

PHOTO PROVIDED

SUNDAY, JUNE 21

Scattered Thunderstorms High 74° Low 96°

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Kaleidoscope Dance Company have been regular performers at Mitchell Hall in recent years. The program will include musical theatre performances, dramatic readings, dance works and original music presented by alumni whose careers have taken them to professional stages, classrooms, studios and creative industries across the country.“ For 100 years, Mitchell Hall Theatre has been much more than a building,” said Collin Andrulonis, UCO theatre arts alumnus and director of the Mitchell Hall Centennial Alumni Showcase.

“It has been a place where artists discovered their voices, built lifelong friendships and created memories that continue to shape their lives. This showcase is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary alumni who have come PHOTO PROVIDED through its Many plays and productions have doors and been featured in the past 100 years, including the comedy “Nine to Five.” to honor the impact Mitchell Hall has had on generations of performers, students and audiences.”Opened June 29, 1926, Mitchell Hall Theatre has hosted thousands of performances, lectures, ceremonies and community events throughout its history. Generations of UCO students have rehearsed, performed and grown within its walls, while countless audience members from Edmond and across Oklahoma have experienced the arts there.In addition to celebrating the theatre’s legacy, proceeds from the event will support the ongoing upkeep and future improvements of Mitchell Hall Theatre, helping ensure it remains a vibrant performance venue for generations to come. Following the performance, guests are invited to attend a reception and reconnect with alumni, faculty, students and friends while commemorating this historic milestone. Tickets are $35 and may be purchased online at go.uco. edu/alumni-showcase. For a complete list of UCO College of Fine Arts and Design events and performances, visit BronchoArts.com.

Page 2 • June 18, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

Dental care arrives with school day For hundreds of Oklahoma children, a school day this year brought more than reading, math and recess. It brought the quiet reassurance of care: a dental screening in a familiar hallway, preventive treatment without a long drive across town, and one less health concern for families already balancing enough. Through the Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation’s Cavity Prevention Clinic program, care came directly to campus. This is the same group of folks that puton clinics around the state in the spring to help get dental care access to folks that either cannot afford it or do not have the care available. My wife, Lisa, used to Hibbard volunteer for these three or fourday events when she worked at a dental practice. She even traveled to Bolivia several times on dental missions. She would never tell you that but of course. I am so proud of the work she did and I am not as shy. During the 2025-26 school year, the program provided more than $213,000 in free services, visited twenty-two schools and treated 727 students. Another 1,731 second graders received oral health education and toothbrush kits, giving many children access to support they might not otherwise receive. The portable clinic serves schools where at least 70% of students participate in the federal free and reduced-price meal program. At those campuses, students can receive screenings, fluoride varnish, sealants and follow-up support at no cost to their families or schools — a small intervention that can change the course of a child’s health. The idea is simple but powerful: catch problems early, ease pain before they begin and help children stay healthy enough to learn, play and pay attention to the ordinary rhythms of childhood. “Oral health is vital to a child’s overall wellbeing,” said Terrisa Singleton-Smith, director of the Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation. “By bringing important treatments directly to schools and connecting families with local dentists for continued follow-up, we are helping to ensure Oklahoma kids have the foundational dental care they need for academic success and a better quality of life.” This year, 456 students received dental sealants and 648 received fluoride varnish applications. The numbers are clinical, but their meaning is deeply personal. Cavities remain one of the most common preventable childhood diseases, and for many families, prevention can be the difference between a routine school week and a problem that grows quietly worse. The clinic traveled to schools in Oklahoma City, Union, Putnam City, Ardmore, Chickasha and Verden, along with a charter school in Oklahoma City, bringing care to communities across the state. For school leaders, the benefit goes beyond clean teeth. Preventive care can mean fewer untreated problems, fewer missed class days and one less obstacle for families already navigating work schedules, transportation and the uneven realities of access to health care. “Thank you, Delta Dental of Oklahoma, for coming and providing this great service to our kids,” said Debra Fields, principal at Charles Evans Elementary School in Ardmore. “We appreciate

Delta Dental, and its volunteers, helped thousands of schoolchildren last year — providing free dental care.

you all so much.” By meeting students where they already are — in classrooms, cafeterias and school hallways — the program is doing more than preventing cavities. It is making health care feel reachable. And for many children, that kind of care arrives not as a grand gesture, but as something quieter and just as important: help, offered in the middle of an ordinary day. Lisa would send me pictures of the lines each morning before the clinics opened. They would serve like five hundred or more people per day in towns like Woodward. We just do not put enough importance on how decayed teeth can affect the rest of your health. It is really a silent crisis in our mouths. Across the United States, a quiet epidemic is rotting the nation's public health from the inside out. It does not start in a viral lab or a crowded hospital ward, but rather on the bathroom sink and in the empty dental chairs of underserved communities. Poor oral health—driven by deferred dental care or a total lack of access to treatment—is triggering a massive wave of severe, systemic health issues nationwide. As tens of millions of Americans navigate a fractured healthcare system, medical experts are sounding a critical alarm: neglecting your teeth and gums can be a direct path to life-threatening chronic conditions. American medicine has treated dentistry as a separate, elective luxury rather than an essential pillar of general primary care. This systemic division has left an estimated seventy-two million Americans without dental insurance, a staggering figure that triples the number of individuals lacking standard health insurance. Compounding the crisis, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately fifty-seven million citizens live in designated "dental health professional shortage areas," with rural towns bearing the heaviest burden. In these vast dental deserts, the absence of routine preventative care turns simple, treatable cavities into complex, dangerous medical emergencies. Bloodstream Highway:

From gums to the heart, the mouth acts as the primary gateway to the rest of the human body. When a person stops brushing, flossing, or visiting a provider, a sticky, destructive film of bacteria known as plaque hardens into tartar along the gumline. This continuous buildup sparks a persistent immune response, resulting in severe, chronic inflammatory condition called periodontitis, or gum disease. The primary danger of periodontitis lies in its ability to breach local barriers. The local vasodilation caused by inflamed gums allows billions of aggressive oral bacteria to slide directly into the bloodstream. Once inside the circulatory highway, these pathogens travel throughout the body, adhering to arterial walls and accelerating atherosclerosis—the dangerous narrowing and hardening of the arteries. YUCK! The chronic inflammation caused by severe gum disease significantly escalates a patient's vulnerability to cardiovascular emergencies. Individuals suffering from advanced periodontal disease face a risk of heart attacks, strokes, and congestive heart failure that is two to three times higher than those maintaining routine dental cleanings. If these circulating bacteria settle into the inner linings of the heart, they can trigger endocarditis, a potentially fatal infection requiring intense, prolonged hospitalization. The biological fallout of poor dental care expands rapidly into the endocrine system, creating a highly destructive, bidirectional feedback loop with diabetes. Medical researchers have long recognized that individuals with diabetes are highly susceptible to severe infections, making them much more likely to develop advanced gum disease. When oral bacteria trigger systemic inflammation, the body releases high concentrations of inflammatory signaling molecules, such as C-reactive protein. These biochemical markers actively disrupt insulin sensitivity, driving up blood sugar and rapidly worsening the long-term prognosis for diabetic patients. It seems that the systemic devastation does not stop at the heart and pancreas. Every single day, individuals with severe tooth decay and unmanaged oral infections accidentally aspirate microscopic droplets of saliva packed with pathogenic bacteria straight into their respiratory tracts. Over time, this chronic micro-aspiration introduces severe pathogens directly into the lungs. I read an article the other day that talked about how poor dental health increases the chances of getting Alzheimer’s. This specific pathological mechanism has been increasingly linked to accelerated cognitive decline, memory loss, and a heightened risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. I know this all sounds pretty gross but oral healthcare cannot continue to be treated as a secondary luxury for the affluent. To safeguard the nation's physical and economic well-being, dental education, preventative hygiene programs, and robust insurance coverage must be seamlessly integrated into standard, baseline medical infrastructure. Until we treat the mouth as an inseparable component of the human body, America will continue to pay a deadly price for its collective neglect. (Ray Hibbard, publisher, may be reached for comment at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com

Check out what’s inside! --- Senior news ................................................................................Page 5. --- Police booking report ..................................................................Page 6. --- Calendar of weekend events ..............................................Pages 6 & 7. --- City Source ..................................................................................Page 8. --- Obituary notices..........................................................................Page 9. --- People need to chill out, columnist urges..................................Page 10. ---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page14. --- George Gust reviews new movie ..............................................Page 14. ---- Business ....................................................................................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 • June 18, 2026 • Page 3

The University of Central Oklahoma School of Music's Summer Band will perform its annual Concert in the Park at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 25, on the lawn between Mitchell Hall Theatre and the Lillard Administration building on Central's campus. The free, hour-long concert is part of LibertyFest, Edmond's annual Fourth of July celebration.

On June 25 UCO Summer Band to perform free Concert in the Park as part of LibertyFest The University of Central Oklahoma School of Music's Summer Band will perform its annual Concert in the Park at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 25, on the lawn between Mitchell Hall Theatre and the Lillard Administration building on Central's campus. The free, hour-long concert is part of LibertyFest, Edmond's annual Fourth of July celebration. The concert will feature a variety of marches, classics, patriotic music and a jazz arrangement of “Route 66” in recognition of the highway's centennial celebration.

“We are particularly excited about this year's concert and the wonderful band we have assembled — 125 members strong,” said Marty Marks, D.M.A., conductor of the UCO Summer Band. “We have wonderful depth in every section of the band, ranging from excellent, motivated students to top-tier professional musicians.” Following the concert, attendees will be invited to enjoy complimentary ice cream. A limited number of folding chairs will be available; however, attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets for seating.

LibertyFest festivities will continue on the UCO campus with the return of the annual fireworks show Saturday, July 4. Recognized as one of the premier fireworks displays in the Oklahoma City metro area, the show is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. Community members are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. For more information about the UCO School of Music, visit go.uco.edu/school-of-music. For more information about the UCO College of Fine Arts and Design, visit uco.edu/cfad.

Page 4 • June 18, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure

On July 3, the Edmond History Museum will host ‘Songs & Stripes: Big Band Show.’

LibertyFest Song & Stripes show set for July 3 The Edmond History Museum presents the LibertyFest event Songs & Stripes: Big Band Show, July 3, 2026 at 2:30, 4:30 and 7:30 pm. During the show, attendees are transported back to the World War II era when well-known entertainers cheered up American troops through comedy skits, beloved music and patriotism. The show features live musicians and actors reading Old Time Radio-style scripts incorporating Edmond’s wartime history from the 1940s, with special emphasis on Route 66 this year. Singers and actors will entertain in the style of a Bob

Hope USO comedy tour, while acknowledging modern military heroes from Edmond. Big band music is performed by Talk of the Town Orchestra, with Barrett Huddleston as director, local musical celebrity, Lucas Ross, as master of ceremonies, actress Nora Sea and singer Sierra Sikes. During the war era, the entire country needed a boost of positivity, and the need for positive entertainment continues. To appreciate America’s protectors, free show tickets are available to active military members and veterans. Songs & Stripes, an official LibertyFest event, is

part of the museum’s 1940s Radio Theater, a national award-winning series hosted by the Edmond History Museum. The show is performed live at the Edmond History Museum, 431 S. Boulevard in Edmond. Tickets to Songs & Stripes are $25 each, children 5-11 are $5, children under 5 are free. Forty tickets are reserved FREE for Active Military or Veterans, but RSVP is required to obtain free tickets. Tickets will increase to $30 on July 2nd, but note that this show is a yearly sell-out, so it is advised that tickets be reserved early.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 18, 2026 • Page 5

Keeping bathrooms safe for seniors Maintaining a sense of independence throughout retirement can inspire seniors to live their golden years to the fullest. For many seniors, nothing is more emblematic of their ability to stay independent than remaining in their homes. A number of variables can affect how long seniors stay in their homes, including the layout of the property and any potential safety threats that may arise as men and women age. Some small, safety-centric tweaks to a property can help men and women remain in their homes for as long as possible. · Increase lighting in bathrooms throughout the home. Lighting is easily overlooked as a safety measure, but a well-lit space is easier to navigate. Increasing lighting in the bathroom and upgrading existing features to LED lighting can make it easier for seniors to navigate bathrooms at night. That's a notable benefit, as seniors may need to make routine bathroom trips overnight. · Install grab bars. Grab bars are often found in public restrooms, but they're equally useful in the bathrooms or private homes, particularly in seniors' residences. Grab bars can be installed on both sides of all toilets and in the bathtub/shower stall

so seniors can get up and down easily and reinforce their stability on wet surfaces. · Invest in bathroom storage systems. A cluttered bathroom is a potential safety hazard. Items in cluttered bathrooms can easily end up on the floor, and that goes for bathing items like shampoo and soap as well. A bathroom storage system for a vanity and an organizer for bathing items inside a shower or tub can decrease the chance that items end up on the floor, where they can pose an injury risk for seniors who might struggle to bend over to pick them up or slip on fallen items when bathing. · Renovate your existing shower. Seniors whose current bathrooms house a traditional shower setup that requires them to step over a tub can renovate the space and replace that feature with a walk-in shower. A walk-in shower does not require seniors step over a bathtub, greatly reducing the risk of falls while bathing. Some additional shower renovations include installing a bench so seniors can sit down while bathing, ideally while using a hand-held shower head. · Purchase non-slip materials for the bathroom. Non-slip floor mats in

Seniors need to think safety in the restroom.

a bathroom are essential for anyone, and especially beneficial for seniors. A non-slip vanity storage bin and toothbrush holder also can ensure daily accessories remain accessible. · Elevate toilet heights. Elevating toilet heights in bathrooms throughout the home can make it easier for seniors to sit down and get up when going to the bathroom. Toi-

lets compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are roughly 18 inches taller than standard toilets, which can make a big difference for seniors. These are just a handful of ways seniors can make their bathrooms safer as they aspire to stay in their homes longer. Metro News

Page 6 • June 18, 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, AGG is aggravated, FTA is failure to appear, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.) June 1 Greggory M. Rhodes, 46 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Thomas Dominique Gwen, 36 homeless. Indecent exposure. June 2 Patrick James Rhodes, 48 homeless. Public intoxication. Phromas Carnel Morgan, 39 of Oklahoma City. Failure to maintain compulsory insurance and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Dearious Alonte McCullough, 35 of Ardmore. Public intoxication. Emily Elizabeth Lewis, 30 of Blanchard. Three counts of possess CDS, unlawful use of license or identification card, (misdemeanor) possession of another’s debit card, (misdemeanor value) receive stolen property, possess drug paraphernalia, (drug related) possession of contraband in a penal institution and misdemeanor warrant. Khalil Nadir Williams, 19 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance, expired tag — over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. June 3 Doyle Ray Harrison, 74 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

June 4 Jason Michael Gandara, 33 homeless. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol, expired tag, failure to maintain compulsory insurance, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and possess drug paraphernalia. Lindsay Ana Knavel, 42 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned. Tyrese Lamar Thornton, 22 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol. Monica Ayana Steward, 49 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Daniel John Meely, 50 of Edmond. Public intoxication. June 5 Christopher Loyd Brown, Jr. 32 of Oklahoma City. Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license, possess firearm after conviction of felony, possess CDS, expired tag and failure to maintain compulsory insurance. Madison Lee Meiser, 25 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Shaniecia Unique Wilson, 29 of Edmond. Assault and/or battery with a dangerous weapon. Breonn Jalon Morton, 23 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant. Kristobal Angelo Ortiz, 29 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Jerry Dee Melot, 76 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned. Austin Alonzo James Anderson, 33 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned. June 6 Amauri Antonio Tucker, 21 of Edmond. No proof of insurance, expired tag — over three months, operating a motor vehicle with no valid

driver’s license and failure to appear. Jason Brian Santiago, 42 homeless. Three counts of failure to appear. Sherry Dawn Scott, 43 homeless. Four counts of failure to appear. Ashton Alan Willson, 46 homeless. Trespassing after being forbidden. Kalli Marie Acord, 27 of Edmond. A felony warrant and two counts of failure to appear. Leon Paris Greene, 64 of Oklahoma City. Felony warrant. Kenton Samuel Bobble, 30 of Del City. Domestic abuse assault (strangulation), burglary in the first degree, kidnapping and domestic abuse with a prior pattern of physical abuse. Tyler Steven Johns, 39 of Oklahoma City. Felony DUI/APC with one prior conviction. Caleb Joshua Sicard, 22 of Edmond. Aggravated felony DUI — operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .15 or more. June 7 Patrick Joseph Winston Hawkins, 31 of Edmond. Failure to appear. Shelby Lewayne Obiarinze, 34 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Quintay Miguel Talley, 30 of Yukon. Aggravated felony DUI — operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .15 or more and a felony warrant. Ladayna Shybrill Durham, 38 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Ania Briza Johnson, 24 of Edmond. Four counts of failure to appear. Antoinette Luwanda Farmer, 45 homeless. Felony warrant. Alfred Clifford Goldberg, 53 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear. 36 booking reports.

Weekend calendar of events, June 18-21 Weekend Calendar of Events June 18-21 ---- In the Gallery ---- Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Heard on Hurd ---- Route 66 Centennial Caravan ---- Touchmark at Coffee Creek Downsizers Club: Legal & Financial Readiness ---- Concerts in the Park ---- Frenzy Live Music in June ---- Edmond Jr. Rodeo ---- Edmond Patriot Market ---- Weekly Game Night ---- Saturday Morning Music Sessions ---- Coffee & Guitars ---- Book Swap ---- Trivia Night ---- Vinyl Night ---- Music Bingo ---- Beer + Yoga ---- The Round Barn Rendezvous ---- 1889 Territorial School Open House ---- Choose Your Adventure! ---- Code of the West Discover Table: June ---- NRHA Derby ---- Cactus & Succulent Show & Sale ---- Oklahoma Railway Museum Train Rides ---- Sip & Stroll ---- The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show ---- Pollard Theatre presents: Leader of the Pack – The Ellie Greenwich Musical ---- OKC Farmers Market District Summer Solstice Festival

mycitizens.bank

Sunday; 2 – 5 p.m.; visitedmondok.com

Route 66 Centennial Caravan Location: Route 66, various locations Extra Info: Thu, Jun 18; Free; 9 – 1 p.m.; route66caravan.com; visitedmondok.com

Trivia Night Location: Flatire Burgers Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; 8 – 10 p.m.; flatireburgers.com

Touchmark at Coffee Creek Downsizers Club: Legal & Financial Readiness Location: 2801 Shortgrass Rd, Edmond Extra Info: Thu, Jun 18; Free; 10 – 11:30 a.m.; touchmark.com

Vinyl Night Location: Round Midnight Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; facebook.com

Concerts in the Park Location: Stephenson Park Extra Info: Thu, Jun 18; Free; 6 – 8:30 p.m.; Jokers to the Right, Above the Frey – Classic Rock; edmondok.gov Frenzy Live Music in June Location: Frenzy Brewing Company Extra Info: Fri, Jun 19; Free; Brad Jones @ 7 p.m.; frenzybrewing.com Edmond Jr. Rodeo Location: Edmond Round Up Club – Carl Benne Arena Extra Info: Aug 7 – Sat, Aug 8; 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.; Adults: $5; 18 & under: $1; edmondroundupclub.com 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

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 Sharon Sudduth and Marie Kash Weltzheimer; edmondfinearts.com Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: Festival Market Place Extra Info: Sat, Apr 11 – Sat, Oct 31; each Saturday; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov Heard on Hurd Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Sat, Mar 21 – Sat, Oct 17; recurring monthly on the 3rd Saturday; free; 6 – 10 p.m.;

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 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

Music Bingo Location: Flatire Burgers Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Sat; 7:30 p.m.; flatireburgers.com Beer + Yoga Location: America Solera – Icehouse Project Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; americansolera.com The Round Barn Rendezvous Location: Arcadia Round Barn Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free; 12 – 4 p.m.; arcadiaroundbarn.com 1889 Territorial School Open House Location: 124 E 2nd Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Sat; 1 – 4 p.m.; Free; edmondhistory.org Choose Your Adventure! Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Thu, Jun 18 – Sun, Jun 21; nationalcowboymuseum.org Code of the West Discover Table: June Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Extra Info: Mon, Jun 1 – Tue, Jun 30; nationalcowboymuseum.org NRHA Derby Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park Extra Info: Wed, Jun 10 – Sun, Jun 21; nrhaderby.com Cactus & Succulent Show & Sale Location: Will Rogers Gardens Extra Info: Sat, Jun 20 – Sun, Jun 21; Sat: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun: 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.; okla-

See Calendar, Page 7

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 18, 2026 • Page 7

Calendar From Page 6 Extra Info: Fri, Jun 19; 5 – 10 p.m.; okczoo.org

homacactus.com Oklahoma Railway Museum Train Rides Location: Oklahoma Railway Museum Extra Info: Sat, Jun 20; Train departure times: 11 a.m.; 1 p.m.; 3 p.m.; etix.com Sip & Stroll Location: Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden

The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show Location: Skirvin Hilton Extra Info: Fri, Jun 20; 7 – 10 p.m.; thedinnerdetective.com Pollard Theatre presents: Leader of the Pack – The Ellie Greenwich Musical

Location: Pollard Theatre, 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie Extra Info: Fri, Jun 12 – Sun, Jul 5; Thu – Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 2 p.m.; thepollard.org OKC Farmers Market District Summer Solstice Festival Location: 311 S Klein Ave, OKC Extra Info: Sun, Jun 21; facebook.com

A life-sized model of the Tyrannosaurus Rex, and his friends, awaits visitors at the OKC Zoo.

Page 8 • June 18, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Arcadia Lake Route 66 Beach Festival to bring fun to Edmond The two-day event Aug. 29-30 will showcase Beach Sprints – new Olympic sport debuting in the 2028 games - at Edmond Park Beach at Arcadia Lake, 7100 E 2nd Street. The Route 66 Beach Festival is set to bring a mix of sport, entertainment, and community with racing, live music, food trucks and beach games from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The featured attraction is Beach Sprints which turns traditional rowing on its edge: it features a 50-yard sand sprint, a 250-meter open-water slalom row through waves and buoys, and a final diving sprint to a beach finish line. While traditional "Classic" rowing has been a

staple of the Olympics for over a century, Beach Sprints is a relatively new and exciting discipline with a thrilling "Run-Row-Run" format. Unlike traditional rowing, Beach Sprints is designed for wave like conditions. Athletes race in open-hulled coastal shells that can handle rougher water, navigating a 250-meter out-and-back course around buoys before returning to the beach. Organizers describe the format as a four-minute race that blends speed, endurance and spectacle. Festival organizers say the event is intended to appeal to more than rowing fans. In addition to competition for men’s, women’s and mixed events, attendees can expect a festival atmosphere built

around music, food and outdoor recreation on the lake. Admission to the festival is free, though visitors will need to pay the standard $10 per car Arcadia Lake fee. If you are interested in volunteering, sponsoring, being a vendor or nonprofit partner, contact 405-430-3443 or info@openwatersports.org. Volunteer roles range from athlete hospitality and festival hosting to shoreline cleanup, while sponsorship packages and booth opportunities are available for businesses and organizations that want to take part. Find more information at route66beachfestival.com.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 18, 2026 • Page 9

Some great activities for kids this summer The arrival of summer is a momentous day for children. Summer means school is closed and weeks of rest, recreation and fun in the sun are on the schedule. Although summer may start off with a bang, it may not be too long before kids are uttering the dreaded, "I'm bored," leaving parents and caregivers looking for ways to keep children occupied. Having a list of activities at the ready can help families stay active and engaged during the dog days of summer. Summertime swimming Those lucky enough to have a backyard pool have a great source of entertainment right at home. Swimming alone can grow monotonous for kids, so work with friends' parents to devise a schedule to have the kids alternate whose house they visit for swimming sessions. Standard games like water volleyball or diving retrieval games can add some fun, but many times kids are happy to splash and float with friends. Stock a cooler with water, juice and healthy snacks so kids can just hop out of the water and grab a re-

freshment, rather than leaving a water-logged trail into the kitchen. Those who do not have a pool can consider membership to a township pool, where everyone can mingle with neighbors. Host a movie night The dog days of summer tend to be humid, hot and sometimes uncomfortable. Scheduling activities for later in the day makes the most of weather that has cooled off a bit. Purchase or borrow a projector that hooks up to a computer or tablet, and set up a screen in the yard. Stream a family-friendly movie and prepare ready-made bags of popcorn or cotton candy for the show. Add water to everything Favorite backyard games can be enhanced with the use of a little water. For example, instead of tossing bean bags for cornhole, fill up water balloons. Kids who are playing tag or games like capture the flag may have to run through a garden sprinkler to get into their op-

Obituaries Sarah Joanne Cheney

Sarah Joanne Cheney, 86, of Edmond, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026. She was born on August 16, 1939, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Joseph and Mildred (Wylder) Pitts. She married John Allen Cheney on May 17, 1986. She and John spent 40 happy years together. In a previous marriage she had five children. Joanne spent her life creating a warm and welcoming home for those she loved. She was known for her kindness and compassion, faith in God, grace and hospitality, strong work ethic and great sense of humor. She left an indelible mark on the Lawton and Edmond communities. She was a dedicated medical assistant for forty two years at Comanche County Memorial Hospital in

Lawton, Oklahoma, at Westbrook Family Physicians with Dr. Craig Evans in Edmond, Oklahoma and Cardiologist Dr. Stan Horst of Edmond. She spent her free time gardening, bird watching, conducting genealogy research, and reading. She was a member of the Edmond Republican Women’s Club, Edmond Genealogical Society, and Henderson Hills Baptist Church. Her greatest joy, however, was spending time with her family and friends, who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Jim Pitts, and her son Gregory D Lewis Jr. She is survived by her beloved husband, John. Children: Kelly (Dennis) Cole, Kevin (Laurie) Lewis, Kathy (Jerry) Lucy and Cindy (Kenny) White. Grandchildren: Sarah Totte, Heather Mallette, Chase Lucy, Megan Mansfield, Jena Nickell, Anna Vass, Matthew Lewis, Mikel Lewis, Preston Cole and Kenon White. Sister: Virginia (John) Holbird, sister-In-law Sondra Pitts, Niece: Jennifer Holbird, Nephews: Joe and Phil Pitts and 12 great grandchildren.

Elaine Leonard Hunter

Elaine Leonard Hunter passed away and was reunited with her husband the day after what would have been their 55th wedding anniversary on Saturday evening, June 6, 2026, surrounded by her children in her home in Edmond, OK. She was born in Jamestown, NY on April 16, 1948. Elaine was beautiful inside and out and was known for her kind and generous spirit. She worked as a registered nurse for many years and had a passion for helping others. She was a doting wife and mother and worked hard to be everything for everyone as they raised their children together. She was a proud

volunteer for the EARC Thrift Shop, a dedicated blood donor, a dog lover, and made a friend any place she went, as she genuinely cared to hear anyone’s life story. She is predeceased by her husband, Dr. John R. Hunter, her mom and dad, Rachel and Irvin F. Leonard, Jr., her brother, Steve Leonard, and her brother, Lynn Leonard. She is survived by her three children, Rob Hunter, Amy Foster (JB Foster), and Emily Ford (Rob Ford), her seven grandchildren: Evan, Lane, Beau, and Dean Foster, and Oliver, Vivian, and Winston Ford, and her brother, Jim Leonard. Elaine had Multiple Sclerosis and endured many years of debilitating health issues, but through it all, remained positive and thankful for her care. She will be lovingly remembered by her family. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to do something in her memory, a donation to the Multiple Sclerosis Society would be appreciated.

If you would like an obituary printed, please contact Alexx Reger at alexx@edmondpaper.com

ponent's territory. Kids can put their engineering skills to use by building an obstacle course of hurdles and the like from tires or pool noodles. Poke holes into one pool noodle and feed a garden hose into the end to create a water hazard. Go on a scavenger hunt Whether at a beach, park, or even walking the neighborhood, families can have a list of objects that must be found. The first child to find all of the items on the list gets a prize, such as choosing which ice cream shop to visit. Dance in the rain Summertime is known for the sudden arrival of storms. When a downpour occurs, have the family head into the garage with the door open to catch the amazing sights of Mother Nature. Take turns briefly running out into the deluge to dance and splash in the rain. Retreat to the indoors when thunder and lightning are close by. Metro News

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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

Agree to disagree Knights of Columbus. Many By Steve Gust clergy are also members. The Recently The OklahoKnights were started in the man highlighted a case, 19th century by a young which shows the glaring inpriest – Fr. Michael Mctolerance some in society Givney. He saw so many have toward others. women, widowed by the Civil I’m not going to get into War. Through the Knights, specifics, or names. It inwould set up fiMcGivney volved a Catholic priest who met a protestant Steve Gust nancial protection for families losing the breadwinner. preacher. They were alBut the Knights didn’t stop there. legedly going to visit about ChristiEventually, charity became a main anity. But, while the priest excused goal of the Knights. To this day, the himself for a bit, the preacher took film footage and then later had hor- order provides coats for kids, wheelchairs for those who need them, rific things to post on social media help for brother Knights in Ukraine, about Catholicism. food panties and many, many other I’m not sure what good that causes totalling millions or billions served – at all. of dollars. The Knights are but one I understand not everybody is group of Catholics helping the Catholic and there are plenty of world. There are others. church with disagree who people Protestant churches also help othteaching. And the church hasn’t ers as do other faiths. And I must been perfect over the past 2,000 add, most non-Catholic Christians years. But why not just leave it at are good people who wouldn’t conthat? Can we not agree to disdone the previously mentioned agree? Being Catholic myself, I don’t pre- preacher. Why can’t we all try to recognize tend to understand everything we’re not the same? We can disabout the church. I certainly have agree without being disagreeable. the basics down. (Steve Gust may be reached at One of the groups, closely associnews@edmondpaper.com ated with Catholicism, are the

Lankford addresses issues on ‘Meet the Press’ Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Senate Republican Conference Vice Chair and a member of the Senate Intelligence and Homeland Security Committees, joined Meet the Press to discuss President Trump's strategy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, the expiration of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), and the 2026 midterm elections. On Iran’s Nuclear Program and Negotiations: “Let's wait and see what the deal actually is. That's part of the challenge we have right now, is we have not seen the details of the actual agreement yet on this, but [the] President's been very, very clear: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, cannot have a nuclear weapons program, and cannot keep that highly enriched uranium in the country. “That is dramatically different than what President Barack Obama was negotiating years ago. When Barack Obama was negotiating, ‘You have to

delay your nuclear program,' President Trump says, ‘No, you can never have a nuclear program, you can't have the stockpiles, you can't have a program there,’ that makes an incredible difference for us. “So, not having a nuclear program, not having a closed Strait of Hormuz, and not having a terrorist nation actually terrorize the rest of its neighbors and the United States would be a huge gain for us.” On Frozen Iranian Assets and Sanctions Relief: “What's been interesting is, I haven't heard anyone from the administration float anything like that, that's what's floating around social media to be able to have this ‘giant fund for Iran’. “What has actually been stated by the administration is folks like Treasury Secretary Bessent saying that, ‘The Iranian frozen funds should actually be used to help rebuild Kuwait, rebuild Jordan, rebuild the areas that Iran has attacked, and that any funds that would be unfrozen,’ that are Iranian funds that are being held by countries all in the region where Iran and its regime has hidden its money off, any of those funds could only be released if there was a change in behavior, not a change in a signature or words. “They've got to be able to drop their terrorism, they've got to release all these nuclear ambitions that they have, and they've got to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.” On Congressional Review of an Iran Deal: “Yeah, it is best if it is ratified by Congress, it has a more lasting effect on it. “Barack Obama's nuclear deal was so bad when Joe Biden came in the White House, he did not reinstitute it. He had four years that he looks at it and said, ‘No, we're not going to try to do the same deal that Barack Obama did on it.’ President Trump was right to tear that up. “It [JCPOA] opened a pathway towards a nuclear weapon and just delayed it outside of the Obama presidency. That doesn't help the American people long term.”

Time to take action against fraud By Stephanie Bice Congresswoman Fifth District Okla. Over the last few years, we have seen an alarming rise in government fraud in states throughout the country. These scams have been prevalent in Medicaid, home health centers, government contracts, and even in federal agencies. In states like Minnesota and Ohio, these schemes have gone undetected, costing taxpayers millions of dollars. The average taxpayer loses between $1,000 and $3,000 to these types of shams each year. Every dollar lost to a scam is a dollar taken from hardworking taxpayers and diverted away from the people these programs were created to serve. Fraudulent activity is anything but victimless. That is why we must continue working to identify fraud, strengthen oversight, and protect taxpayer dollars. Taxpayers deserve better. The Trump Administration set up the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud under the leadership of Vice President J.D. Vance. The Task Force is focused on combating waste and abuse within federal benefit and assistance programs. So far, the

task force has identified more than two dozen instances, accounting for roughly $160 billion in fraudulent payments. Congress is also taking a stand. Most recently, the House Oversight Committee released a report exposing the extent of the fraud in Minnesota. In this report, they detail how Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison greenlit widespread corruption in their state and refused to act to stop it. The Oversight Committee will continue to hold hearings and make fraudsters accountable. Last year, the House passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which includes reforms to prevent benefits from going to ineligible recipients and strengthens safeguards for taxpayer-funded programs. The Rescissions Act of 2025 also takes aim at wasteful spending by rescinding $9.4 billion identified by President Trump and DOGE. Additionally, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act extends the amount of time prosecutors have to pursue individuals who stole unemployment benefits during the pandemic. Building on those efforts, the House recently

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passed the Stop Child Care Scams Act. Childcare programs are designed to help working families get ahead, and we must ensure those resources are reaching the parents and children who need them most. Strengthening accountability helps protect these programs and preserve public trust. last week, the House is considered additional legislation aimed at preventing fraud and strengthening oversight across the federal government. The Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act would authorize the U.S. Treasury and the Office of Management and Budget, in consultation with the Office of Personnel Management, to establish a governmentwide training program to help federal employees identify fraud risks, implement anti-fraud best practices, and utilize tools such as the Do Not Pay system. My office is also working to combat illicit payments. Recently, we have been contacted by constituents who were victims of fraud involving the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This investigation remains ongoing, and my office is monitoring the situation closely. It was only because these constituents noticed suspicious activity and reached out with concerns that we were able to begin piecing together what happened. Their experience serves as an important reminder to regularly review your accounts and encourage your family members to do the same. Fraud is often uncovered because every day Americans speak up when something does not seem right. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, my office is available to help. There are multiple avenues for reporting these instances, and we can help guide constituents to the appropriate resources or assist in resolving issues they may be facing.

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 18, 2026 • Page 11

Har-ber Village — an Oklahoma treasure By Elaine Warner When my husband Jack, who’s not a big museum person, said, “Every child should see this!” I knew I was on to something. That something was Har-ber Village, south of Grove, Oklahoma, on Grand Lake. Elaine Bernice and Harvey Jones, who founded the outdoor museum in 1968, would be pleased. Har-ber (Har for Harvey and Ber for Bernice) Village started small with the construction of a tiny chapel and a few historic buildings. Their intent – to create a place where future generations could get a glimpse of what life was like in earlier centuries. One of the first exhibits is a collection of bricks from every state. Oklahoma bricks include examples made in Enid, McAlester, Claremore, El Reno and more. The first large building is dedicated to the founders. A video introduces visitors to them, and a large area features furniture and mementos which belonged to the family. The next area features businesses and services that would be found in any early community – no coffee shop but there is a saloon. The fixtures in the Post Office building came from Aurora, Arkansas. Inside on the wall are exhibits of postage stamps, while outside, there’s a rural delivery mail wagon. You’ll go home and hug your dentist after you see what a turn-of-the-century dentist office looked like. One peek at the foot-powered drill would have been enough to make me swear off of sweets. The doctor’s office is just as cringe-worthy. Explanatory material outside many of the exhibits not only gives the history of some of the items but personal stories about pioneers. One such story tells of Dr. Harrison Gaither, first doctor to the Cherokees in Indian Territory. He rode on horseback to visit his patients and was often paid with venison rather than money. The soda fountain and prescription case once stood in a drug store in Pettigrew, Arkansas. The one-room school house came from the country near Goshen, Arkansas. The desks and blackboard are original to the school. The school was taken down, log by log, and reassembled at Har-ber Village. On our visit, we met a family from Oregon – a little girl with her grandmother and mother. When we walked into the school, Maggie was playing teacher with her mom and grandmother having to cipher – the old-fashioned word for working basic math problems – with chalk on slates. The bank is outfitted with solid mahogany fixtures dating back to 1902. The original bank was in Carterville, Missouri. It failed during the Great Depression but the impressive woodwork remained in the building until Harvey Jones bought it in 1970. You can’t miss the cannonball safe. Named for their shape, these safes were popular between 1860 and 1920 and were said to be robbery proof because of the weight – between 3500 and 5000 pounds – and time lock systems. We followed the path down the hill

A ten-foot-tall statue of Jesus stands in front of the tiny Har-ber Village church. Photos by Elaine Warner

to a little pond with a small waterfall. Nearby we looked into a one-room log cabin furnished as it would have been in the late 1800s. Although most of the paths in the six-acre museum are wheel-chair accessible, the path down to the church is challenging. The little chapel is built of bricks from an Arkansas mansion which was burned down during the Civil War. Light streams through a stained glass window depicting Jesus with the quote, ” Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” The window was created in Fort Smith especially for the Har-ber Village church. The pulpit once stood in an 1850 Methodist Church near Springdale, Arkansas. In front of the church, facing the lake, is a statue of Christ. The largerthan-life-size, white marble sculpture was carved in Italy. The walk back up the hill from the lake was daunting, but lots of cabins gave us chances to stop and catch our breaths. Some of these little cottages were simply furnished. Others displayed a variety of collections. Hats and boots were on display in one of them. Another featured wedding dresses. Others held more styles

Maggie Gibbons from Portland, Oregon, plays laundry day at Har-ber Village.

of old-fashioned clothing. One of my favorite exhibits was the beauty salon. When I was a kid, we called them “beauty parlors” and stylists were referred to as “beauty operators”. The display here features a permanent wave machine which was used until “cold wave perms” were introduced in the early 1940s. These machines involved dangling wires which ended in rods to roll the hair around – pretty scary looking. Across from the beauty salon is the laundry. Here we ran into Maggie and her family again. She was carefully hanging clothes on a clothes line. Among the examples of legitimate businesses, another display is devoted to the production of illegal moonshine. Two copper stills are the stars of the exhibit, but don’t miss the collection of stoneware jugs which would have held the finished product. By this time, we’d seen a lot and our time was running short. After the cabin displays, we headed to a number of large buildings filled with innumerable items. One building dealt with the evolution of telephones. Other collections included dolls, glass, pottery, furniture, a military display, tools, farm machinery, buggies, and U.S. presi-

dents. If you can think of it, you’ll probably find it here. Knowing we had a deadline, we skipped a number of displays and made our way back to another section of the pioneer village. Here we found the mayor’s house, an 1830 building with several rooms of period furniture. This section also has the jail, the courthouse and the gallows. Tips for a trip to Har-ber Village – make it a day. Take a picnic; there are places outside the museum with picnic tables. Wear comfortable shoes; the paths through the outdoor museum add up to a bit more than a mile, but that doesn’t count all the steps you’ll take walking through the buildings. If you haven’t had enough walking, there’s a two-mile nature trail outside of the pioneer village area. Har-ber Village is a true Oklahoma treasure – lots of history. And you’ll feel a sense of amazement at the variety of things people have collected and the effort it must have taken to get them all here. Har-ber Village is about 200 miles from Edmond. The drive takes approximately three hours, making it too long for a day trip, but perfect for a weekend getaway.

Without TV or radio, families in earlier times made their own entertainment

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Fireworks illegal in Edmond city limits What Rockets’ Red Glare Act (SB 1948) means for Edmond. The Edmond Fire Department is advising residents that fireworks are still banned inside city limits under local municipal code, even after the passage of Rockets’ Red Glare Act (SB 1948). The act, which was signed by Governor Stitt in May, applies only to private property in unincorporated areas of the state under SB 1948. The authority to regulate fireworks within their city limits, under Title 68 of the Oklahoma Statues, remains in effect. The fireworks ban in Edmond under Title 17 of Edmond’s Municipal Code includes sparklers, snakes, bottle rockets and all other consumer grade fireworks. The prohibition applies to all private and public property inside city limits, including parks, lakes and areas within Arcadia Lake. Citizens can go to https://gis.edmondok.gov/addresslocator/, or search “do I live in Edmond” to find if their address

is under Edmond City Limits. Many residents are surprised to learn they still live inside city limits in rural areas to the east, or OKC city limits even with an Edmond address due to mailing districts. Don’t call 911 for fireworks complaints. To keep 911 lines open for life-threatening emergencies, the City of Edmond asks residents not to call 911 to report illegal fireworks. Residents should call 911 only if someone is injured by a firework or if fireworks start a fire. If residents know the address where fireworks are being set off, they can call the non-emergency number 405-359-4338. Please be ready to report the address or closest intersection, return contact information, and the City of Edmond will follow up on complaints. For more information about this release or questions about fireworks please call 216-7303 or email FirePrevention@edmondok.gov.

Lankford points out FEMA expenditures US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) last week highlighted $2.8 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance awarded to Oklahoma to support recovery efforts following severe storms, tornadoes, flooding, and wildfires across the state. “From repairing damaged public buildings to reimbursing emergency protective measures and wildfire suppression costs, these FEMA awards will help Oklahoma communities recover from the tornadoes, severe weather, and wildfires that impacted our state,” said Lankford. “We have stayed in contact with FEMA leadership to get these grants finalized. I'm glad to see these federal resources supporting the agencies and local governments that responded when Oklahomans needed them most." The federal funding will help Oklahoma communities recover and respond to recent disasters through the following projects: $848,284 to the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services for building exterior and interior repair or replacement as a result of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding. $614,620 to the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services for emergency protective measures to lessen the immediate threat to public health, safety, and property as a result of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding. $147,121 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the Euchee Creek Fire. $407,619 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the 840 Road Fire. $502,573 to Roger Mills County for firefighting activities associated with the 840 Road Fire. $105,647 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the Little Salt Creek Fire. $182,767 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the 328 Fire.

Sen. James Lankford

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May’s ‘Stamp Out Food Drive’ nets 508,000 pounds of food The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma received more than 508,000 pounds of food and nearly $105,000 in financial donations during the National Association of Letter Carriers’ 34th Annual Stamp Out Food Drive on Saturday, May 9. As part of the annual food drive, Oklahomans were encouraged to leave bags of nonperishable food by their mailboxes for collection. Letter carriers across central and western Oklahoma gathered donations along their routes and delivered them to local post offices, where over 370 volunteers sorted and prepared food for distribution. “We are extremely grateful for the support of our letter carriers, presenting sponsors OG&E and American Fidelity, volunteers and the generosity of Oklahomans,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer at the Regional Food Bank. “Year after year, this food drive is a reminder that fighting hunger takes all of us.” The food and funds collected during this food drive will help provide 737,892 meals to Oklahomans living with hunger. All donations will stay local and support more than 140 communities throughout the Regional Food Bank’s 53-county service area. “Hunger affects every community, and addressing it takes community action,” said Kelli Hayward Walsh, manager at OG&E Community Outreach & Engagement. “Stamp Out Hunger is neighbors helping neighbors, and OG&E stands alongside the Regional Food Bank in this impactful effort to help our neighbors.” Since 1992, the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has helped provide more than 14.5 million meals to Oklahomans living with hunger. "American Fidelity and our colleagues are truly dedicated to coming together to support the Regional Food Bank, helping ensure families across the state have access to the food they need," said Leilani Gradle, community relations supervisor at American Fidelity. "From donating to our yearly Regional Food Bank Food and Fund Drive to volunteering at the Regional Food Bank with fellow Colleagues and participating in the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, I’m proud to see the difference our Colleagues and Company are making in the fight against hunger." This year’s Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive was additionally sponsored by CSAA-AAA Insurance, OU Health, WEOKIE Foundation, Bank of Oklahoma and the Oklahoman.

Clarence Maxwell

Integris Health shares a wound-care success story Clarence Maxwell was trimming trees in his backyard when one of the limbs he was cutting jackknifed and cut into his left shin leaving a large open wound. He remembers thinking, “Boy, I’ve really done it this time.” Realizing he needed immediate medical attention, he drove himself to the INTEGRIS Health AllSet Urgent Care clinic located at 750 SW 19th St. in Moore. “It was pretty severe,” recalls Kayla Barry, the certified physician assistant who treated Clarence that day. “We cleaned it and dressed it, but it was something I couldn’t suture here. I felt like it was going to need a little bit longer term care.” She referred Clarence to the INTEGRIS Health Hyperbaric Medicine and Wound Center at INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center. “She said, ‘I'll be honest with you, this doesn't look good.’ I said, ‘Well, I know, I know,’” Clarence admits. “She said, ‘I tell you what, I believe we need to get wound care involved in this.’” Melissa Harris, D.O., was impressed with Clarence right off the bat. “One of the things that struck me when I first met Mr. Maxwell was just his positive outlook. He came

into our clinic knowing that he was going to get better and knowing that we were there to help him and just coming into the whole process with that mindset made all the difference.” She continues, “With wounds, it can take up to a full year for that wound to fully heal. Once it scars over, it's still working in there. It's still remodeling. I do tell my patients, please be careful with the area. It is going to be very delicate for quite some time. It's never going to be as strong as it was before.” Clarence says the recovery was slow and steady, but worth the wait. “This all happened when I was 85 and I turned 86 before I got well. I was a little bit afraid for a while that I was gonna fool around and lose my leg. You know if it got infected, but they took care of it and I am tickled to death with the way it is now.” As for Dr. Harris, she did give Clarence some advice moving forward. “In the case of Mr. Maxwell, I did recommend maybe not chopping down any more tree limbs,” she says with a smile. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about the INTEGRIS Health wound care program, call 405-644-5398.

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Movie review of ‘Disclosure Day’

Spielberg film will have audience thinking By George Gust Director Steven Spielberg has been away from the blockbuster Summer movie season since 2018’s “Ready Player One” and now his newest release, “Disclosure Day” feels like Spielberg settling into a familiar groove, bigidea scifi with a human center. It’s not a blockbuster in the “Jurassic Park” sense, this movie lives closer to the anxious, emotionally driven Spielberg of “Minority Report” and “War of the Worlds.” The movie wants to be both a conspiracy thriller and a plea for empathy, and most of the time it pulls that off. The movie’s strongest move is its balance between spectacle and intimacy. Spielberg stages a few set piece moments that deliver real tension without drowning the story in effects. The film uses an alien contact premise as a way to engage with ideas about trust, fear, and how societies react to world altering information. And the screenplay keeps the stakes clear that the world is changing, and people are scrambling to make sense of it. Pacing is the main issue with the movie

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though. The middle act lingers in procedural beats that could have been tightened; the runtime feels longer than it needs to be. A few plot threads with shadowy government agencies and media spin aren’t fully fleshed out, which leaves some story promises undercooked. If you come for nonstop thrills, the film’s quieter, more reflective stretches will test your patience. Josh O’Connor anchors the paranoia and empathy of the story well. He sells the slow burn from skeptic to someone who’s forced to reckon with new realities. Emily Blunt carries the emotional center in the film’s second half. Her panic

and vulnerability during a key action sequence feel lived in rather than performative. Coleman Domingo and Colin Firth add the right amount of institutional weight; they’re not caricatures, just people trying to hold a collapsing narrative together. “Disclosure Day” isn’t flawless, but it’s a thoughtful, emotionally honest Spielberg picture that favors conversation over spectacle. It asks big questions about truth and community and mostly trusts its audience to sit with the answers. “Disclosure Day” isn’t going to be in the top tier Spielberg films, but it is a worthy addition to his optimistic view of science fiction through a genuinely human lens. “Disclosure Day” is rated PG-13 for action/violence, some bloody images and strong language.e. 3.8out of 5 stars. (Contact George Gust for comment about this movie, or any other motion pictures at gust.george@gmail.com)

Emily Blunt and Josh O’Conner reveal a truth that has earth shattering consequences in Steven Spielberg’s sci-fi thriller “Disclosure Day”

Unique event at museum On Friday, June 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., kick off your summer with a one-of-a-kind night at the Oklahoma History Center that blends weird flavors, creative expression and Route 66! At this program, guests aged 21 and over can sample three rounds of distinct cocktail/mocktail creations, featuring a distinctly strange Pops soda flavor. Non-alcoholic options, water and light bites are also included with admission. Between tastings, guests are invited to create a collage using historic photographs, vintage-inspired materials and maps to design their own Route 66 postcard. The museum’s newest exhibit, “The Longest Stretch: Route 66 in Oklahoma,” will also be open to tour throughout the evening. Tickets are $15 for members of the Oklahoma Historical Society and $20 for nonmembers. 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. to 5 p.m. Please call 405522-0765 or visit okhistory.org/historycenter for admission costs and group rates.

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT MEDIA Crossword Puzzle Theme: Declaration of Independence ACROSS 1. Last name behind Waldorf Astoria 6. Hawaiian flower garland 9. What beanstalk did 13. Pack animal 14. Charged particle 15. Lacking guile 16. Lumen per square meter, pl. 17. Crime scene evidence, acr. 18. Roast host 19. *Unalienable ones in the Declaration of Independence 21. *Colony that originally abstained from voting on independence 23. Baba of "One Thousand and One Nights" 24. Parsley or basil, e.g. 25. Mountain peak 28. *Four Declaration signers were alums of this CT Ivy Leaguer 30. Most mature, as in fruit 35. It must go on? 37. Small brook 39. *"...to assume among the powers of the ____" 40. Cap and gown accessory 41. Where there's trouble 43. Rani's dress 44. Useful quality 46. Volcano off Sicily coast 47. State on Old Glory 48. Dionysus' follower 50. Dems' opponents 52. Not divisible by two 53. Like certain people's glasses 55. Australia's flightless bird 57. *First Declaration of Independence signer 61. *Self-evident ones 64. Not a minor 65. "____ it or lose it!" 67. Songs for two 69. Formally surrenders land 70. *Last name of the only brothers to both sign the Declaration 71. Last Supper cup 72. "If you only ____!" 73. Boy 74. Item in diary DOWN 1. *____ men are created equal

2. Talk like a drunk 3. Fare ride 4. Opposite of alpha 5. In a foolhardy manner 6. Jar covers 7. Long, long time 8. Stupid or silly 9. Risqu 10. Puerto ____ 11. ____ and anon 12. 168 hours 15. Rookie 20. Beauty pageant winner's headgear 22. Make a blunder 24. Serfdom, archaically speaking 25. Indian black tea 26. Capital of Tibet 27. One's entourage 29. *Liberty's partner 31. Permission to leave 32. Muse of love poetry 33. Nickname for a certain violin 34. *Certain George, with The 36. *"____ in the course of human

events..." 38. Like TV's famous ranger 42. Candle shape 45. Fortune teller's deck, pl. 49. Who is Bugs Bunny talking to? 51. Blemish 54. Cranial bones + facial bones 56. Driver's 180 57. Bypass firewall, illegally 58. Yemeni port 59. Classic art subject 60. Ball of yarn 61. Started during the Ryder Cup, e.g. 62. Miami basketballer 63. Cookbook direction 66. Shining one in "America the Beautiful" 68. Sylvester Stallone's nickname

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Edmond Life & Leisure • June 18, 2026 • Page 15

Painting by Brad McNeill. Image provided by artist

Edmond Fine Arts notes upcoming reception for artist Brad McNeill Edmond Fine Arts invites the community to an opening reception for artist Brad McNeill on Thursday, July 9, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Edmond Fine Arts, 27 E. Edwards Street in downtown Edmond. An Edmond native, McNeill is an abstract and impressionist painter whose work is inspired by color, movement, and emotion. His artistic journey began at a young age through drawing and painting before evolving into his practice today that is focused on expressive abstract works in oil and acrylic. McNeill's paintings can be found in homes and businesses throughout Oklahoma and beyond, and he works with collectors, interior designers, galleries, and decorators across the region. Known for creating artwork that brings energy and warmth to a space, McNeill embraces the spontaneity of abstract and impressionist painting, allowing each piece to evolve through layers of color, texture, and intuition. His work reflects

both a love of creativity and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of Oklahoma, western imagery, and abstract art. Guests attending the opening reception will have the opportunity to meet the artist, view the exhibition, and enjoy an evening celebrating the visual arts. The event is free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be served. About Edmond Fine Arts: Edmond Fine Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing accessible arts education and fostering creativity in the Edmond community. Through classes, workshops, and community events, Edmond Fine Arts aims to inspire individuals of all ages to explore and embrace the arts. Edmond Fine Arts is located at 27 E. Edwards in Downtown Edmond. The Gallery is sponsored by BancFirst. For more information about the exhibition or upcoming programs, visit www.edmondfinearts.com or follow along on social media.

Community Wellness event scheduled for June 30 The City of Edmond’s Housing & Community Resources Department will host a free Community Wellness Event on Tuesday, June 30, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Chitwood Park, 712 West 1st Street. This event aims to expand community awareness of local resources and support, including mental and behavioral health services, safety programs, general wellness opportunities, and more. Edmond Connect—a coalition within the Housing & Community Resources Department and a network of committed community partners—serves as a centralized hub connecting residents with local services. This event is an extension of that mission. “In working alongside DCCCA (an agency providing social and community services to improve the safety, health, and well-being of those we serve throughout Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma) and other community partners, we hope to highlight the importance of knowing what resources and supports are available in the Edmond community and ultimately for community members to know we are here to help in any way we can,” said Jordan Thomas, Youth System of Care Grant Coordinator. A wide range of City of Edmond departments will participate, including Planning, Parks & Recreation, Urban Forestry, Edmond 911, Fire Prevention, and the Edmond Police

Department. Community agencies such as Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Department, Ministries of Jesus, YMCA, and Safe Kids Oklahoma will also be present. Attendees can enjoy free activities, including yoga, lawn games, demonstrations, and other interactive experiences for families and youth of all ages. “By utilizing grant funding such as the Opioid Abatement funds, we are able to help provide support to our community through outreach, with education and prevention regarding substance use and awareness of mental and behavioral health services,” said Christy Batterson, Director of Housing & Community Resources. The City’s Housing & Community Resources Department continues to build programming that supports mental and behavioral health, substance use prevention, and services for individuals experiencing life-impacting challenges. Recent funding sources include the System of Care grant awarded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in 2024 to support youth mental health and Opioid Abatement funding designated to strengthen community outreach. For more information, contact Jordan Thomas, Housing & Community Resources at 405-359-4799 or jordan.thomas@edmondok.gov.

Page 16 • June 18, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure

America’s Freedom Bell to help welcome attendees of Junior. High Finals Rodeo The first annual National Junior High Finals Rodeo at the Lazy E Arena will open with a special ceremony welcoming youth rodeo champions from across the country. This year’s event will feature America’s Freedom Bell, a nationally recognized symbol honoring the sacrifices of those who have defended our nation and commemorating the upcoming 250th Anniversary of the United States. The Edmond City Council designated $45,000 in 2022 to support the Lazy E Arena’s bid and City of Guthrie also contributed $10,000 per year for each contracted event to help recruit this prestigious national rodeo. Date/Time: Sunday, June 21, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. Location: Lazy E Arena, 9600 Lazy E Drive,

Guthrie, Oklahoma Event: National Junior High Finals Rodeo Opening Ceremonies As part of its nationwide journey leading up to America’s Semi Quincentennial celebration, America’s Freedom Bell will make a special appearance during the Opening Ceremonies. The bell will serve as a centerpiece of the event, offering attendees the chance to view the bell, learn about its mission, and reflect on the legacy of service and sacrifice upheld by generations of Americans. “America’s Freedom Bell stands as a powerful reminder of our heritage and the brave individuals who have preserved our liberty,” said Richard Rovesk, Founder of the Spirit of Liberty Foundation. “We are honored to share this symbol with

the young athletes, families, and community members gathered here. As we look toward America 250, the bell inspires all of us to remember the cost of freedom and the importance of unity.” The ceremony will also feature a presentation of the colors by members of the Sons of the American Revolution and will welcome young competitors from across the United States as they begin competition at one of the nation’s premier youth rodeo events. The City of Edmond, Guthrie community leaders, veterans, families, and guests from across the country are invited to join in celebrating America’s history, recognizing those who have served, and honoring this patriotic tribute in Oklahoma.

HUD Secretary stops program funding in LA over allegations leveled against agency Following the HUD Office of Inspector General (OIG) opening an investigation, Secretary Scott Turner last week announced the immediate suspension of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), the lead agency for Los Angeles’ homelessness response. HUD has uncovered evidence of LAHSA’s repeated false statements and its irresponsible actions and failures, including its lack of financial management, internal controls, and safeguards against conflicts of interest, which pose a threat to the public, HUD’s mission, and the stewardship of taxpayer dollars. The Los Angeles Continuum of Care, led by LAHSA, has received nearly $1 billion in taxpayer dollars over the last five years. Despite receiving more federal homelessness funding than any other jurisdiction in the nation, Los Angeles remains the epicenter of the nation’s drug-fueled homelessness crisis. “Under President Trump’s leadership, HUD will fund results, not corrupt failure or the homeless industrial complex,” said Secretary Scott Turner. “Year after year, hundreds of millions of taxpayer

AAA urges ‘100 Days of Safe Driving’

dollars were funneled to LAHSA with little accountability. Meanwhile, homelessness skyrocketed. Taxpayers will no longer bankroll an organization that puts its own self-interests ahead of the Americans it was created to serve.” “For years, American taxpayers have been sending billions of dollars to Los Angeles to house the homeless and other vulnerable Americans. The result? Fraud and corruption. That ends today. None of this would be possible without the leadership of Secretary Turner,” said Scott Brady, White House Task Force Executive Director. Following a HUD-initiated investigation, LAHSA’s clear pattern of fraud is being exposed, including: In August 2023, LAHSA could not even determine whether it used funding to pay for empty hotel rooms, because it failed to record when individuals exited transitional motel housing; In November 2024, the LA County’s AuditorController found that LAHSA misused government money by using it to pay for services provided under another government funders’ contract weeks before LAHSA received grant funds to cover the

The summer driving season is in full swing, a time when teens gain more independence behind the wheel, families hit the road for vacations, and celebrations bring more drivers onto the nation’s roadways. To encourage safer choices during this high-travel period, AAA is urging drivers to commit to “100 Days of Safe Driving” between Memorial Day and Labor Day. This message comes at a critical

particular cost; During a 2025 assessment, LAHSA failed to provide documentation to verify the existence of nearly 2,300 housing sites for which it was responsible; LAHSA made false certifications and did not even have its own internal written conflict-of-interest policy until September 26, 2025, even though it certifies that it will comply with these requirements and will establish safeguards to prohibit conflict of interest; The agency’s former CEO resigned after she and LAHSA violated federal conflict-of-interest rules by committing more than $2 million in federal funds under LAHSA’s control to her husband’s employer. Los Angeles’ failure to address the homelessness crisis is glaring. While its funding has increased 178% since HUD first mandated the Housing First policy in 2013: Homelessness in LA has increased 100%, Free housing for the homeless in LA has increased 212%, and HUD Continuum of Care funding per homeless person in LA has increased 39%.

time: according to a AAA review of national crash data, more than 30% of fatal crashes100 Days of Safe Driving.jpg involving teen drivers and nearly one-third of all impaired-driving fatalities occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day. By making smart choices behind the wheel, like putting cell phones out of reach, following posted speed limits, buckling up, and planning ahead for a sober ride, driv-

ers can help make summer roads safer for everyone. “The ‘100 Days of Safe Driving’ campaign is about encouraging drivers to make simple choices behind the wheel that can help save lives,” said Gene Boehm, president and CEO of AAA. “By staying focused, slowing down, buckling up, and planning ahead for a sober ride, every driver can help make our roads safer this summer.”

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 18, 2026 • Page 17

Business ideas earn recognition At the fifth-annual Pitch Night, Business Marketing and Management students from Francis Tuttle Technology Center took the stage to share their innovative business ideas. The event, powered by Stride Bank, supports earlystage entrepreneurs in their quest to become the next great concept. The six finalists presented their business concepts during the pitch competition while vying for a portion of $10,000 in seed money, provided by Stride Bank. Additionally, other participants shared their concepts during the Showcase. The six finalists were: ● Carson Seely | Seely Wellness ○ Seely Wellness is a youth-focused wellness studio designed to give adolescents a safe, welcoming space to connect, grow, and better understand themselves. ● Hunter Danel | Danel Tech Bags ○ Danel Tech Bags is a productivityfocused backpack brand designed to solve everyday problems students and professionals face, like disorganization and dead devices. The bag features a built-in retractable USB-C charging system and an integrated filing system. ● Jada Doyle | Bonneed-IT ○ Bonneed-IT is a beauty and hair care accessories brand that creates customized satin bonnets. The goal is to combine hair protection with self-expression, while building a strong brand based on community, confidence, and connections. ● Travis Loeffelholz | Fitness Fabrication ○ Fitness Fabrication LLC presents

Student winners include (left to right): Travis Loeffelholz - Adult Student, Cashion High School graduate Bowman Courtney - Edmond North Jada Doyle - Edmond North Abby Williams - Instructor Hunter Danel - Edmond North Morgan Burroughs - Classroom Collective.

the Iso Rail Machine, with a focus on innovation, in-house manufacturing, and direct sales. The company aims to help physical therapy clinics and gyms, especially those that experience space constraints. ● Bowman Courtney | Lumi ○ Lumi is a simplified Android launcher designed to make smartphones accessible for adults 65 and older. The app replaces the standard home screen with a clean, stable interface featuring large icons, AI-powered scam detection, and accessibility tools built around how seniors use their phones. ● Mason Brown | Sintez ○ Sintez is a premium professional products company. Its flagship product, the Trifolio, is a sophisticated leather

Undergraduate Research Board names Barthell to leadership post John Barthell, Ph.D., chief research officer at the University of Central Oklahoma, has been elected to serve on the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) board of directors as an officer in the presidential path. Barthell will serve a three-year term on a stepped rotation that includes the roles of president-elect (202627), president (2027-28) and immediate past president (2028-29). He has been involved with CUR for more than 20 years, serving on the board of directors since 2020 and as a representative since 2011. “Dr. Barthell’s election to a leadership position on the Council on Undergraduate Research board of directors is a tremendous honor for both him and the University of Central Oklahoma,” said UCO President Todd G. Lamb. “His lifelong commitment to advancing undergraduate research has created transformative opportunities for our students and the greater Broncho community. This board position, along with his continued leadership and collaboration, will elevate and escalate UCO’s pursuit of achieving Research 2 designation by 2032.” Starting his career at UCO in 1995, as an assistant professor in the College of Mathematics and Science, Barthell’s leadership abilities led him to serve in several key administrative positions, including assistant dean of the Jackson College of Graduate Studies, interim associate dean and then dean of the College of Mathematics and Science. His dedication to advancing undergraduate research, including at the national level, culminated in his appointment as UCO’s provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, a position he held for more than six years. In January 2020, Barthell accepted a rotating program director role at the National Science Foundation (NSF) in Alexandria, Virginia, through the Intergovernmental Personnel Act Program. This prestigious assignment

John Barthell closely aligned with his passion for advancing science and marked the first time a faculty member from a regional institution in Oklahoma participated in the program. Throughout his tenure at the NSF, Barthell remained actively involved with UCO, returning to campus in 2024 to serve as chief research officer, reinforcing his commitment to advancing the university's mission. Barthell’s ongoing commitment to undergraduate research is further demonstrated by his research on bees, investigating plant-pollinator interactions, pollinator learning and responses to climate change. He was recently awarded a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to develop an early warning system using bee hives to detect harmful bacterial and fungal pathogens before they spread widely through crops, livestock and surrounding ecosystems. “UCO has been instrumental in supporting faculty members devoted to the involvement of undergraduates in research,” Barthell said. “I am grateful for the support our students receive, for example, in attending the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, with strong involvement of the faculty, deans, Offices of the Provost and President.”

carrying portfolio engineered to organize and protect both physical documents and digital devices in one polished, professional package. Doyle earned first place for her pitch and $4,000 in seed money for Bonneed-IT. The Edmond North High School senior plans to use some of the funds to purchase her own equipment so she can continue her business when she attends Oklahoma State University in the fall. “I just feel blessed,” Doyle said after the competition. “I think it’s amazing that this is something that any kid can get the opportunity to do. “It means a lot because posting on social media has helped validate what it is, but now it’s a bunch of people who don’t even know me who are also vali-

dating this business,” Doyle continued. “Now I really feel like I can make it something big.” Danel took second place and received $4,000 for Danel Tech Bags, while Courtney finished third and earned $2,000 for Lumi. Morgan Burroughs with UGC by Morgan was recognized for the Top Elevator Pitch, and Loeffelholz earned Top Innovation for Fitness Fabrication. A panel of five judges heard the pitches and asked questions of each student before determining the competition winners. The judges included Bryan Parises and Lindsey Ogan from Stride Bank, Kristin Garcia from The Verge, Srijita Ghosh from i2E, and Angela Muir from Boom Town Creamery.

Page 18 • June 18, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure

OMRF physician-scientist Matlock Jeffries, M.D. See article, Page 19.

Family Circus

Beetle Baily

Hi and Lois

Blondie

Shoe

Hägar the Horrible

Zits

Edmond Life & Leisure • June 18, 2026 • Page 19

Grant to OMRF to study osteoarthritis Backed by a new four-year, $1.2 million grant, an Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation physicianscientist will investigate why osteoarthritis develops and progresses differently from person to person. Matlock Jeffries, M.D., received the grant from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The project builds on previous research that identified long-lasting inflammatory changes in blood cells linked to progression of OA, the most common form of arthritis. For his new study, Jeffries will analyze blood sample data and medical information from 25,000 veterans. The VA’s Million Veteran Program, one of the world’s largest research databases for health and genetics, will supply the data. “This gives us access to a much larger and more powerful dataset than we’ve ever had before,” said Jeffries, a rheumatologist who directs OMRF’s Arthritis Research Center. “We can now test whether the biological patterns we discovered in smaller studies hold up across thousands of OA patients.” OA usually results from cartilage deterioration in the knees, hands, hips or spine. It is significantly more prevalent in veterans due to traumatic injuries sustained in training or combat. Veterans also tend to develop OA at younger ages, meaning they often live with the disease for decades longer than the general population. Although OA has traditionally been viewed as a “wear-and-tear” condition, scientists increasingly believe that inflammation related to the immune system influences how joints deteriorate. Jeffries hopes to better understand why some patients experience slow disease progression over decades while others decline within just a few years. He theorizes that OA progression is linked to changes in blood cells that influence how genes are

turned on or off. Jeffries’ lab has already found these characteristic patterns in a previous, smaller study of OA patients. The new study in a much larger set of patients will confirm whether these patterns can help predict who is likely to develop OA, whose disease will worsen quickly, and who may eventually require joint replacement surgery. A second aspect of Jeffries’ study will use advanced computational methods to estimate the types of immune cells present in patients’ blood samples. By analyzing these patterns, Jeffries hopes to identify specific immune cell populations linked to OA progression. Currently, no drugs exist that alter the course of OA. The only treatments available focus on managing pain and improving joint function. Although a handful of OA disease-modifying ther-

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

apies are now undergoing clinical trials, most target individual joints through injections. However, most OA patients have several joints affected. A more comprehensive understanding of immune changes in the blood could eventually lead to therapies that treat OA systemically rather than joint by joint, said OMRF Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Judith James, M.D., Ph.D. “This study shows potential to explain the factors behind OA progression,” James said. “If Dr. Jeffries finds one particular immune cell or pathway driving disease, that could become a new therapeutic target.” This research is funded by VA grant No. IO1BX007116. It will build on research funded by grant No. R01AR076440 from the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health.

Page 20 • June 18, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure